Local Area

In the centre of Sligo town, Quayside has everything a shopaholic could need with shops such as River Island and Oasis and some appetising restaurants such as Grapevine Bistro to replenish the energy levels. The centre is fully equipped with a car park, toilets and baby changing rooms.

This remarkable, challenging, links golfs course situated right on Strandhill Beach is one that has golf enthusiasts travel far and wide to play. Describes as a “hidden gem” by many of its players it is an immensely enjoyable course in excellent condition and the clubhouse serves beautiful food with a great atmosphere to top it all off.

A trip to Sligo is incomplete without taking a trip out to the famous Strandhill beach – home to many of Ireland’s seasoned surfers. Strandhill beach is also a great place to learn how to surf or stand up paddle board and offers people of all ages the perfect setting to hone their skills. The Strandhill Surf School is located just 20 minutes’ drive from Clayton Hotel Sligo and offers the perfect family friendly or group activity for all ages.

Sligo Race Course hosts several Race Days and events throughout the year that are guaranteed to be enjoyable for all ages. Family Days are held on various dates and are a great excuse for the family to get the “Sunday Best” on and have a thoroughly enjoyable day out.

The family run farm is just outside Strandhill, about 10 – 15 minutes’ drive from Clayton Hotel Sligo. You can pre-book a tour around this gorgeous woodland area.

The impressive house is situated just outside Carney, 20 minutes’ drive from Clayton Hotel Sligo, dramatically below Table Mountain, it is a sheer delight to visit all year round.

At Eagles Flying you can get close enough to feel the flap of their mighty wings; kids and adults will be in awe of these magnificent birds of prey.

Sligo was, of course, the legendary poet W.B. Yeats’ beloved home for much of his early years and the town certainly marks this accordingly.

Famed for its surf and water sports, Strandhill also has more relaxing attractions including the VOYA seaweed baths and many picturesque walks.

The Abbey suffered countless attempts of destruction over the years, from invasions including the 1642 Rebellion to being set alight in the 19th century during a fit of rage by Sir Frederick Hamilton. Astonishingly much of the Abbey survived along with centuries of carvings, Gothic and Renaissance tombs and the only 15th century high alter from an Irish Monastery still standing

This is one of the largest and most historically significant megalithic sites in Europe: the tombs are older than the Egyptian Pyramids and predate New Grange by around 700 years.

Sligo’s beautiful cathedral dates from the 18th Century, built on the site of a 13th Century hospital and Parish. It is thought that the West Tower contains remnants of the original structure. This cathedral was W.B Yeats’s parent’s place of marriage, and the grave of his mother’s parents is located on the grounds also.

Sligo was, of course, the legendary poet W.B. Yeats’ beloved home for much of his early years and the town certainly marks this accordingly. The W.B Yeats Memorial Building gives excellent insights into the life of this influential character and exhibits some of his most impressive works. The building sits idyllically on Hyde Bridge in Sligo town centre.

Every Sunday afternoon this unique market takes place in the exciting venue of Hanger 1 at Sligo Airport, just a stone’s throw from Stand Hill Beach. A vast selection of local handcrafted goods, textiles and foods are on offer which serves to prove that Sligo is overflowing with creativity and talent.

The Gaelic name Cnoc na Ri means “Hill of Kings” alludes to the myth the ancient kings of the province were crowned here. Knocknarea remains one of the most striking landmarks in Sligo dominating the skyline over the Coolera peninsula.

In the heart of Sligo town, The Model is one of Ireland’s most astounding contemporary arts centres and home to the famous Niland Collection. The Model attempts to expand the boundaries of arts in Ireland by exhibiting pieces that tackle sensitive but critical issues, such as war and contemporary religion. It is undoubtedly one not to be missed when discovering Sligo.

Discover the rich history of our county and people. Sligo County Museum houses a range of collections including artefacts from stone age life right up to a firkin of 100-year-old bog butter.

As the home town of W.B. Yeats, you won’t be surprised to learn that Sligo County Museum houses a permanent exhibition dedicated room to his talents. The Yeats Room displays letters, manuscripts and photographs of the well-known poet and a replica of his Nobel Prize medal and a complete collection of his poems. If you’re a fan of his work, the museum is well worth the visit.