Sligo

Sligo (Sligeach in Irish, meaning shelly place) is the principal town in County Sligo in Northwest Ireland & Lakelands. It's the largest urban area in this region, and the second largest in the province of Connacht (after Galway).

Traditionally a small, quiet coastal town of 17,892 people (but an area of 12.9 km² or 5 sq mi), Sligo has experienced significant redevelopment since the 1990s and now offers much in the way of shopping, entertainment and eating out. It's a great base from which to explore the often underrated west and north west Atlantic coast of Ireland. A lot of new development has taken place along the Garavogue river, most notably the regeneration of J.F.K. and Rockwood Parades, consisting of shops, cafés, bars, a number of apartments, and a new footbridge over the river.

O’Connell Street is the town's main street. Two new shopping centres (The Quayside and Johnston's Court) opened in 2005, bringing national and international chain-stores to the region.

Sligo is surrounded by the Dartry Mountain range to the north, the Ox Mountains to the south, and Sligo Bay and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The Dartry range includes the well-known Ben Bulben (sometimes called Ireland's table mountain). Knocknarea Mountain, 5 km (3 mi) west of the town, is best known for the stone cairn at its summit (actually a burial mound dating to the Neolithic period).

Sligo's Irish name, Sligeach (pronounced SHLEE-gok, which means the place of shells), comes from the large number of shellfish found in the local river and its estuary, and from the Stone Age food preparation areas in the vicinity. The river (now known as the Garavogue) was originally also called the Sligeach. This whole area, from the river estuary at Sligo, around the coast to the river at Ballisodare Bay, was rich in marine resources, dating back as far as the Mesolithic period.

Sligo was a significant location as far back as the Early Neolithic period, as demonstrated by the numerous ancient sites close by. Particularly notable are the megalithic tombs at nearby Carrowmore. According to local archaeological digs (when a new road was being built), 'Magheraboy [now a suburb of Sligo] demonstrates the early Neolithic settlement of this area of Sligo, while the longevity of the activity on the site indicates a stable and successful population during the final centuries of the fifth millennium and the first centuries of the fourth millennium BC.'

The Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, Maurice Fitzgerald, is said to have established the medieval town of Sligo, building the Castle of Sligo in 1245. As a result, Sligo became an important crossroads strategically and commercially. Sligo Abbey is the only medieval building left standing in the town.

Sligo is twinned with three towns/cities (sister cities), namely:

• Crozon, in Brittany, France
• Kempten im Allgäu, in Bavaria, Germany
• Tallahassee, in Florida, United States of America

There are regular trade and tourism links with these cities throughout the year.

• There are two local newspapers in Sligo, each of which gives details of local news, sports and entertainment on a weekly basis. The Sligo Weekender is published on Tuesday while The Sligo Champion is published every Wednesday.
• A round of the World Rally Championship was based in Sligo on November 16th-18th, 2007. Rally Ireland was a great success and returned in January 2009 after a fantastic first year.

• Sligo Abbey, Abbey St (from the GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), before the river, turn right onto Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Walk 140 m (150 yd) to the second right onto Water Lane, and at the top of the lane, 90 m (98 yd) turn left onto Castle Street. Walk 200 m (220 yd) onto Abbey Street, with Abbey on the left (total distance of 455m (498 yd)), +353 71 914-6406. daily 10:00-18:00 (last admission 17:15. Closed from mid-Dec until Feb. Founded by Maurice Fitzgerald in 1253, destroyed by fire in 1414, rebuilt in its present form; the Abbey was burned in 1642 and everything valuable in it was destroyed. Much of the structure, including the choir, carved altar and cloisters remain. Adult €2.10, senior €1.30, student €1.10, family €5.80, group rate €1.30.
• Famine Memorial, Quay Street Car-park (from the GPO, turn right. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right. Pass the City Hall on your right, Quayside Shopping Centre on your left, enter the car-park at the riverside (total distance of 270 m (295 yd)). open all hours. One of a suite of three sculptures commissioned by the Sligo Famine Commemoration Committee to honour the victims of the Irish Potato Famine (1845–1849), when over 30,000 people emigrated through the port of Sligo, here commemorated by this sculprute. A plaque in the background, headed 'Letter to America, January 2, 1850' tells one family's sad story. free.
• Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery has over 60 tombs, the earliest dating to 3700 BC. It's 4 km southwest of Sligo, open April-Oct daily.

Sligo Abbey, Abbey St (from the GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), before the river, turn right onto Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Walk 140 m (150 yd) to the second right onto Water Lane, and at the top of the lane, 90 m (98 yd) turn left onto Castle Street. Walk 200 m (220 yd) onto Abbey Street, with Abbey on the left (total distance of 455m (498 yd)), +353 71 914-6406. daily 10:00-18:00 (last admission 17:15. Closed from mid-Dec until Feb. Founded by Maurice Fitzgerald in 1253, destroyed by fire in 1414, rebuilt in its present form; the Abbey was burned in 1642 and everything valuable in it was destroyed. Much of the structure, including the choir, carved altar and cloisters remain. Adult €2.10, senior €1.30, student €1.10, family €5.80, group rate €1.30.

Famine Memorial, Quay Street Car-park (from the GPO, turn right. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right. Pass the City Hall on your right, Quayside Shopping Centre on your left, enter the car-park at the riverside (total distance of 270 m (295 yd)). open all hours. One of a suite of three sculptures commissioned by the Sligo Famine Commemoration Committee to honour the victims of the Irish Potato Famine (1845–1849), when over 30,000 people emigrated through the port of Sligo, here commemorated by this sculprute. A plaque in the background, headed 'Letter to America, January 2, 1850' tells one family's sad story. free.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery has over 60 tombs, the earliest dating to 3700 BC. It's 4 km southwest of Sligo, open April-Oct daily.

• Sligo Rovers Football Club, The Showgrounds, Church Hill (from Exiting the train station, cross the road and continue straight ahead up Wolfe Tone Street; at the end of the street turn right up Churchill - the ground is approx half a mile on the right, +353 71 917-1212. Sligo Rovers are Sligo's main football (soccer) team. They play in the Premier Division of the League of Ireland. They were founded in 1928 and are managed by Liverpudlian, Paul Cook and his assistant Gerry Carr. Rovers season runs from early March - mid November and tickets to their games can always be purchased at the gate on match nights. Home matches usually every other Saturday with an 20:00 kick-off. Adults €15, senior citizens and students €8, children (accompanied by an adult) €5..
• The Model, The Mall (from GPO, turn left. Cross the river, continue along Stephen Street, onto the Mall, gallery on left (total distance of 480 m (525 yd)), +353 71 914-1405. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 10:30-15:00. Hosts fantastic permanent exhibition of Jack B. Yeats work (brother of the poet W.B. Yeats), along with local and travelling exhibitions. Beautiful Atrium Cafe (Bridgestone and Georgina Campbell guides recommended). Free wireless hotspot in the Cafe. Gallery exhibitions and visual events free, booking may be advisable for visual events; music, drama and comedy performances usually range from €10-€20.
• County Sligo Heritage and Genealogy Centre, Áras Reddan, Temple St (from GPO, walk South down O'Connell Street for 200 m (220 yd), turn right onto John Street for 50 m (55 yd). Take left up Charles Street, and at the top (200 m (220 yd)) turn right onto Temple Street, Centre is on immediate right (total distance of 530 m (580 yd)), +353 71 914-3728. Searching for your Sligo roots? The Centre offers a full service to enquirers whose ancestors hailed from County Sligo.
• Sligo Races, Sligo Racecourse, Cleveragh Rd (from GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade. Take second right at 140 m (153 yd) (opposite Footbridge), onto Water Lane. At top of lane (200 m (220 yd)), go straight up Market Street and High Street. At the top of the hill, bear left onto Burton Street, then turn right onto Pearse Road. Take third left after 400 m (435 yd) (opposite Bed & Breakfast houses) onto Cleveragh Road. Racecourse is 550 m (600 yd) on left (total distance of 1.6 km (1 mi)), +353 71 918-3342. 6-8 race meetings per year, from May to Sep. €15/€10 concessions (children free).
• Kitesurfing Lessons. With the north west's only kitesurfing school.
• Lough Gill Boat Trips. Family run tours of Lough Gill with pleasant commentary, poetry and refreshments. Opportunity to combine with trip to Parkes Castle

Sligo Rovers Football Club, The Showgrounds, Church Hill (from Exiting the train station, cross the road and continue straight ahead up Wolfe Tone Street; at the end of the street turn right up Churchill - the ground is approx half a mile on the right, +353 71 917-1212. Sligo Rovers are Sligo's main football (soccer) team. They play in the Premier Division of the League of Ireland. They were founded in 1928 and are managed by Liverpudlian, Paul Cook and his assistant Gerry Carr. Rovers season runs from early March - mid November and tickets to their games can always be purchased at the gate on match nights. Home matches usually every other Saturday with an 20:00 kick-off. Adults €15, senior citizens and students €8, children (accompanied by an adult) €5..

The Model, The Mall (from GPO, turn left. Cross the river, continue along Stephen Street, onto the Mall, gallery on left (total distance of 480 m (525 yd)), +353 71 914-1405. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 10:30-15:00. Hosts fantastic permanent exhibition of Jack B. Yeats work (brother of the poet W.B. Yeats), along with local and travelling exhibitions. Beautiful Atrium Cafe (Bridgestone and Georgina Campbell guides recommended). Free wireless hotspot in the Cafe. Gallery exhibitions and visual events free, booking may be advisable for visual events; music, drama and comedy performances usually range from €10-€20.

County Sligo Heritage and Genealogy Centre, Áras Reddan, Temple St (from GPO, walk South down O'Connell Street for 200 m (220 yd), turn right onto John Street for 50 m (55 yd). Take left up Charles Street, and at the top (200 m (220 yd)) turn right onto Temple Street, Centre is on immediate right (total distance of 530 m (580 yd)), +353 71 914-3728. Searching for your Sligo roots? The Centre offers a full service to enquirers whose ancestors hailed from County Sligo.

Sligo Races, Sligo Racecourse, Cleveragh Rd (from GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade. Take second right at 140 m (153 yd) (opposite Footbridge), onto Water Lane. At top of lane (200 m (220 yd)), go straight up Market Street and High Street. At the top of the hill, bear left onto Burton Street, then turn right onto Pearse Road. Take third left after 400 m (435 yd) (opposite Bed & Breakfast houses) onto Cleveragh Road. Racecourse is 550 m (600 yd) on left (total distance of 1.6 km (1 mi)), +353 71 918-3342. 6-8 race meetings per year, from May to Sep. €15/€10 concessions (children free).

Kitesurfing Lessons. With the north west's only kitesurfing school.

Lough Gill Boat Trips. Family run tours of Lough Gill with pleasant commentary, poetry and refreshments. Opportunity to combine with trip to Parkes Castle

Most of the shops in Sligo are concentrated in a small area, based around O'Connell Street, Wine Street and Grattan Street. It also has a two new shopping centres, Johnston Court and The Quayside. The town has a huge range of the normal High Street shops, including most of the Irish and British chains. These include clothing, grocery, electronics, books, music, sports, fotwear, Etc., Etc. Apart from all of those, there are a number of one-off shops in Sligo, which make it well worth the visit. Just a small selection of these is outlined below.

• The Cat and The Moon, 4 Castle St (From GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade alongside river, take second right onto Water lane, then left into Castle Street. Shop is 50 m (55 yd) on left (total distance of 320 m (350 yd)), +353 71 914-3686. M-Sa 09:00-18:00. stocks a wide range of hand-made gold and silver jewellery (from their own workshop), both for retail sale and specially commissioned articles. The Irish Craft Boutique also features a huge selection of other Irish-made jewellery, glass, ceramics, textiles, furniture and handcrafts. The Art Gallery (upstairs) hosts regular exhibitions, usually promoting young local and other Irish Artists.
• Michael Kennedy Ceramics, Market Cross (From GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade alongside river, take second right onto Water lane, then up the hill to shop on left (total distance of 300 m (328 yd)), +353 71 914-8844. M-Sa 09:00-18:00. Unusual and quirky pieces of ceramic art sit alongside beautiful (but usable) dinner services in this shop of Sligo-based ceramic artist and potter, all hand-thrown here or in the artist's studio in Gort, County Galway.
• Kate's Kitchen, 3 Castle St (From GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade alongside river, take second right onto Water Lane, then left onto Castle Street. Shop is 40 m on left (total distance of 310 m (340 yd)), +353 71 914-3022. M-Sa 09:00-18:00. Fabulous delicatessen, with all types of food catered for, from home-baked hams to some of the finest chutneys, preserves known to man. Also contains a separate toiletries area (Hopper and Pettit), specialising in Crabtree & Evelyn and other fine ranges.

The Cat and The Moon, 4 Castle St (From GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade alongside river, take second right onto Water lane, then left into Castle Street. Shop is 50 m (55 yd) on left (total distance of 320 m (350 yd)), +353 71 914-3686. M-Sa 09:00-18:00. stocks a wide range of hand-made gold and silver jewellery (from their own workshop), both for retail sale and specially commissioned articles. The Irish Craft Boutique also features a huge selection of other Irish-made jewellery, glass, ceramics, textiles, furniture and handcrafts. The Art Gallery (upstairs) hosts regular exhibitions, usually promoting young local and other Irish Artists.

Michael Kennedy Ceramics, Market Cross (From GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade alongside river, take second right onto Water lane, then up the hill to shop on left (total distance of 300 m (328 yd)), +353 71 914-8844. M-Sa 09:00-18:00. Unusual and quirky pieces of ceramic art sit alongside beautiful (but usable) dinner services in this shop of Sligo-based ceramic artist and potter, all hand-thrown here or in the artist's studio in [[Gort]], [[County Galway]].

Kate's Kitchen, 3 Castle St (From GPO, turn left. After 40 m (44 yd), turn right onto Rockwood Parade alongside river, take second right onto Water Lane, then left onto Castle Street. Shop is 40 m on left (total distance of 310 m (340 yd)), +353 71 914-3022. M-Sa 09:00-18:00. Fabulous delicatessen, with all types of food catered for, from home-baked hams to some of the finest chutneys, preserves known to man. Also contains a separate toiletries area (Hopper and Pettit), specialising in Crabtree & Evelyn and other fine ranges.

The choice of good quality restaurants in Sligo has improved immensely over the last few years. Please note, that all the hotels listed in the Sleep section below also have restaurants, and many have carvery lunches served at the bar.

• Pepper Alley, Rockwood Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Pepper Alley is 150 m (164 yd) on right (total distance of 195 m (213 yd)), +353 71 917-0720. Busy sandwich bar, (especially at lunchtime) with some hot food also available.

Pepper Alley, Rockwood Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Pepper Alley is 150 m (164 yd) on right (total distance of 195 m (213 yd)), +353 71 917-0720. Busy sandwich bar, (especially at lunchtime) with some hot food also available.

• Poppadom Restaurant, 34 O'Connell St (From the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, restaurant is 80 m (88 yd) on the left, Over Liber Bookshop, +353 71 914-7171. Su-Th 17:30-23:00, F Sa 17:30-00:00. Bridgestone best Indian Restaurant from 1999-2004, top quality Asian food, good mix of Indian, Thai, Indonesian, Etc
• Fiddler's Creek, Rockwood Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Fiddler's Creek is 150 m (164 yd) on right (total distance of 195 m (213 yd)), +353 71 914-1866. daily: lunch: 12:00-19:30; restaurant: 19:00-22:00; bar food: 17:30-21:45. Steaks, chicken, pasta dishes. Speedy, friendly service, busy especially at weekends. Separate menu also available at the bar.
• Mardees, 25 Castle St (From GPO, turn left, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood parade (alongside the river). After 140 m (153 yd) turn right onto Water lane. At the top of the Lane, turn left onto Castle Street, restaurant is 70 m (77 yd) on the right, over the Centra supermarket (total distance of 345 m (377 yd))., +353 71 914-7637. New restaurant, with small but interesting menu, bright decor, very friendly efficient staff. Excellent value "Early bird" menu from 17:00 to 19:00 with huge portions!
• Bistro Bianconi, O'Connell St (From the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, past Tobergal Lane on the left, restaurant is 150 m (164 yd) on the left., +353 71 914-1744. M-Sa lunch: 12:30-14:30, dinner: 17:30-late. Pizza and Italian restaurant. Very friendly staff, owner Pat Grimes always on hand to assist with your choices. All pizzas baked in a traditional wood oven (visible from the street). Complete menu available as take-away from High Street branch; Phone +353 71 914-7000.
• Source Sligo, O' Connell St. A restaurant in the heart of Sligo, it serves tapas and other delicious food. It has a great wine menu and also has a cookery school.

Poppadom Restaurant, 34 O'Connell St (From the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, restaurant is 80 m (88 yd) on the left, Over Liber Bookshop, +353 71 914-7171. Su-Th 17:30-23:00, F Sa 17:30-00:00. Bridgestone best Indian Restaurant from 1999-2004, top quality Asian food, good mix of Indian, Thai, Indonesian, Etc

Fiddler's Creek, Rockwood Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Fiddler's Creek is 150 m (164 yd) on right (total distance of 195 m (213 yd)), +353 71 914-1866. daily: lunch: 12:00-19:30; restaurant: 19:00-22:00; bar food: 17:30-21:45. Steaks, chicken, pasta dishes. Speedy, friendly service, busy especially at weekends. Separate menu also available at the bar.

Mardees, 25 Castle St (From GPO, turn left, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood parade (alongside the river). After 140 m (153 yd) turn right onto Water lane. At the top of the Lane, turn left onto Castle Street, restaurant is 70 m (77 yd) on the right, over the Centra supermarket (total distance of 345 m (377 yd))., +353 71 914-7637. New restaurant, with small but interesting menu, bright decor, very friendly efficient staff. Excellent value "Early bird" menu from 17:00 to 19:00 with huge portions!

Bistro Bianconi, O'Connell St (From the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, past Tobergal Lane on the left, restaurant is 150 m (164 yd) on the left., +353 71 914-1744. M-Sa lunch: 12:30-14:30, dinner: 17:30-late. Pizza and Italian restaurant. Very friendly staff, owner Pat Grimes always on hand to assist with your choices. All pizzas baked in a traditional wood oven (visible from the street). Complete menu available as take-away from High Street branch; Phone +353 71 914-7000.

Source Sligo, O' Connell St. A restaurant in the heart of Sligo, it serves tapas and other delicious food. It has a great wine menu and also has a cookery school.

• Coach Lane, 1-2 Lord Edward St (From the GPO, turn right, and walk 300 m (328 yd) through three sets of traffic lights. Restaurant is over Donaghy's Pub, on the left-hand side of the road, just before the Inner Relief Road (N4 road) (total distance of 311 m (340 yd))., +353 71 916-2417. 17:00-22:00 daily. Offers some unusual dishes (e.g., ostrich with marsala); lots of local produce, including steaks, lobster, salmon. Also plenty of salads, pasta and chicken dishes. Cooking style ranges from traditional to spicy and much in between.
• Conrad's Kitchen, The Model, The Mall, +353 71 911-9400. Famous chef Conrad Gallagher has opened a great local restaurant, for local people, in the heart of Sligo's art district and positioned right in the centre of the Model Art Gallery.

Coach Lane, 1-2 Lord Edward St (From the GPO, turn right, and walk 300 m (328 yd) through three sets of traffic lights. Restaurant is over Donaghy's Pub, on the left-hand side of the road, just before the Inner Relief Road (N4 road) (total distance of 311 m (340 yd))., +353 71 916-2417. 17:00-22:00 daily. Offers some unusual dishes (e.g., ostrich with marsala); lots of local produce, including steaks, lobster, salmon. Also plenty of salads, pasta and chicken dishes. Cooking style ranges from traditional to spicy and much in between.

Conrad's Kitchen, The Model, The Mall, +353 71 911-9400. Famous chef Conrad Gallagher has opened a great local restaurant, for local people, in the heart of Sligo's art district and positioned right in the centre of the Model Art Gallery.

• Fiddler's Creek, Rockwood Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Fiddler's Creek is 150 m (164 yd) on right (total distance of 195 m (213 yd)), +353 71 914-1866. Very lively bar, especially at weekends. In-house DJ and live bands 4 or 5 nights a week, also show all major live sporting events on large screens.
• McGarrigles, 11 O'Connell St (FROM the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, bar is opposite Tobergal Lane on the right (total distance of 127 m (139 yd)), +353 71 917-1193.
• McHughs, Grattan St (from the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, turn left at the top of the street (200 m (218 yd)) onto Grattan Street, bar is on the right (total distance of 220 m (241 yd)), +353 71 914-2030.
• Shoot The Crows, Market Cross, Grattan St (turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. After 140 m (153 yd) turn right onto Water lane. At top of lane, turn right onto Grattan Street, Bar is first on right (total distance of 282 m (308 yd))., +353 71 916-2554. Old Sligo pub (founded 1876) with an eccentric past (not least where the name comes from!), long narrow pub, the music collection reflects the eclectic tastes of the owner, Ronan "Uisce" Waters, comprising of Latin, Soul, Motown, Jazz, Funk, Blues, Reggae, Punk, Afrobeat and Irish Traditional among others, and the most unusual front window you've ever seen.
• The Stables, Wine St (From the GPO, turn right, pub is on the left, about 90 m (98 yd), +353 71 914-2280.
• McLynn's, +353 71 914-2088. A traditional Irish bar with music and an old-style setting. One of the best pints of Guinness you'll find. Old Market St. Sligo.

Fiddler's Creek, Rockwood Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right down Rockwood Parade (alongside the river). Fiddler's Creek is 150 m (164 yd) on right (total distance of 195 m (213 yd)), +353 71 914-1866. Very lively bar, especially at weekends. In-house DJ and live bands 4 or 5 nights a week, also show all major live sporting events on large screens.

McGarrigles, 11 O'Connell St (FROM the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, bar is opposite Tobergal Lane on the right (total distance of 127 m (139 yd)), +353 71 917-1193.

McHughs, Grattan St (from the GPO, walk south down O'Connell Street, turn left at the top of the street (200 m (218 yd)) onto Grattan Street, bar is on the right (total distance of 220 m (241 yd)), +353 71 914-2030.

Shoot The Crows, Market Cross, Grattan St (turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. After 140 m (153 yd) turn right onto Water lane. At top of lane, turn right onto Grattan Street, Bar is first on right (total distance of 282 m (308 yd))., +353 71 916-2554. Old Sligo pub (founded 1876) with an eccentric past (not least where the name comes from!), long narrow pub, the music collection reflects the eclectic tastes of the owner, Ronan "Uisce" Waters, comprising of Latin, Soul, Motown, Jazz, Funk, Blues, Reggae, Punk, Afrobeat and Irish Traditional among others, and the most unusual front window you've ever seen.

The Stables, Wine St (From the GPO, turn right, pub is on the left, about 90 m (98 yd), +353 71 914-2280.

McLynn's, +353 71 914-2088. A traditional Irish bar with music and an old-style setting. One of the best pints of Guinness you'll find. Old Market St. Sligo.

• Pure Nightclub, Teeling St (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. After 140 m (153 yd) turn right ont oWater Lane. At top of lane, turn left onto Castle Street, and turn right after 120 m (131 yd) turn right onto Teeling Street, club is 70 m (77 yd) on the left (total distance of 468 m (512 yd)), +353 71 914-4721. Tu-Su 11:30-late. With four bars and three dance floors, this is a busy club, especially catering to students of the near-by Institute of Technology, Sligo. €6-€12 depending on night.
• Lola Montez Nightclub, J.F.K Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. Walk the length of the parade, cross Thomas Street, club is on the right (total distance of 360 m (394 yd))., +353 71 916-1250. Th-Su 11:00-late.
• The Clarence, Wine St. A decent alternative to Pure or The Velvet Room. Very popular with students.

Pure Nightclub, Teeling St (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. After 140 m (153 yd) turn right ont oWater Lane. At top of lane, turn left onto Castle Street, and turn right after 120 m (131 yd) turn right onto Teeling Street, club is 70 m (77 yd) on the left (total distance of 468 m (512 yd)), +353 71 914-4721. Tu-Su 11:30-late. With four bars and three dance floors, this is a busy club, especially catering to students of the near-by Institute of Technology, Sligo. €6-€12 depending on night.

Lola Montez Nightclub, J.F.K Parade (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. Walk the length of the parade, cross Thomas Street, club is on the right (total distance of 360 m (394 yd))., +353 71 916-1250. Th-Su 11:00-late.

The Clarence, Wine St. A decent alternative to Pure or The Velvet Room. Very popular with students.

As elsewhere in Ireland, phone numbers in Sligo comprise an area code (071) and a local number (7 digits). All phone numbers shown in this guide display both the area code and the local number. When calling from a landline within the same area, you can ignore the area code, or leave it in, as you wish. If you are calling from another area within Ireland or from a mobile phone, you must use the area code. Likewise, if you are calling internationally, you must use the following format: Your international access code + 353 + 71 + the local number, i.e., you drop the 0 from the area code.

• County Sligo Library, Stephen St (from the GPO, turn left, cross the river onto Stephen Street, pass two roads on left, library is 200 m (219 yd) on left, +353 71 914-2212. Tu-Sa 09:30-17:00, Th 09:30-20:00. Free Internet facilities available for members and visitors. Four terminals available for adults, and two specifically for children (with kid-friendly software). Also fourteen further terminals available in Reference Library, on nearby Bridge Street (Reference Library Opening Hours; M-F 10:00-12:45 and 14:00-16:45). Quietest in the mornings. Visitors should bring some ID (such as home Library card), and will be required to sign an "internet agreement form". Free.
• The Model Café, The Mall (see Do section above, +353 71 914-1405. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:30, Su 11:00-16:00. Free.

County Sligo Library, Stephen St (from the GPO, turn left, cross the river onto Stephen Street, pass two roads on left, library is 200 m (219 yd) on left, +353 71 914-2212. Tu-Sa 09:30-17:00, Th 09:30-20:00. Free Internet facilities available for members and visitors. Four terminals available for adults, and two specifically for children (with kid-friendly software). Also fourteen further terminals available in Reference Library, on nearby Bridge Street (Reference Library Opening Hours; M-F 10:00-12:45 and 14:00-16:45). Quietest in the mornings. Visitors should bring some ID (such as home Library card), and will be required to sign an "internet agreement form". Free.

The Model Café, The Mall (see Do section above, +353 71 914-1405. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:30, Su 11:00-16:00. Free.

Crime is relatively low by most European standards but not very different. As with any sizeable town in Ireland, visitors and locals alike can feel intimidated by the large crowds hanging around outside fast food outlets, pubs and clubs, usually between the hours of 00:00 and 03:00 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. These areas are generally well patrolled by Gardaí (police), but best avoided, where possible.

If you need the emergency services (Gardaí, ambulance, fire service, coast guard or mountain rescue) dial 999 or 112 from any phone.

There are three weekly newspapers in Sligo. If you're looking for entertainment listings, either the Champion or Weekender are fine, if you want to know what's the official business/political line on something local in Sligo, the Champion is required reading, the Post is hardly worth the price (it's free).

• The Sligo Champion. Weekly, Wednesday. Sligo's oldest surviving newspaper (over 150 years old) containing all the local news and events for the town and county of Sligo and local parts of the surrounding counties of Roscommon, Leitrim, Donegal and Mayo €1.70.
• Sligo Weekender. weekly, Tuesday. For a paper called The Weekender, it comes out mid-week, but otherwise good entertainment listings €1.70.

The Sligo Champion. Weekly, Wednesday. Sligo's oldest surviving newspaper (over 150 years old) containing all the local news and events for the town and county of Sligo and local parts of the surrounding counties of [[County Roscommon|Roscommon]], [[County Leitrim|Leitrim]], [[County Donegal|Donegal]] and [[County Mayo|Mayo]] €1.70.

Sligo Weekender. weekly, Tuesday. For a paper called The Weekender, it comes out mid-week, but otherwise good entertainment listings €1.70.

There are places of worship all over the town; your hotel or Bed and Breakfast should be able to direct you to one nearby. If not, though, the following are centrally located in the town.

• Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Temple St (From GPO, turn right along Wine Street. At second set of traffic lights, turn left onto Adelaide Street, through next set of traffic lights, onto Temple Street, church is on the left, +353 71 916-2670. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 08:30, 10:30, 12:00, 17:00(in Polish), 19:00; M-F 07:15, 08:15, 10:30; Sa 08:15, 10:30, 19:00 (First Friday of each month). Beautiful 130+ year-old building in a Normano–Romano–Byzantine style, it is the only example of a Romanesque style Cathedral built during the 19th century in Ireland.
• St. Anne's, Cranmore (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. Walk the length of the parade, turn right, take second left into Chapel Lane, Church is in front of you, +353 71 914-5028. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 10:30, 12:30, 19:00; M-F 10:00, 18:15, Sa 10:00.
• St. Joseph's, Ballytivnan, +353 71 914-2422. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 11:00, 12:30, 19:00; M-Sa 10:00.
• Dominican Friary, High St, +353 71 914-2700. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 09:30, 11:00, 12:15, 19:00; M-Sa 10:30 and 13:05. Holy Cross is the only church run by a religious order (rather than directly by the diocese) in the Diocese of Elphin.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Temple St (From GPO, turn right along Wine Street. At second set of traffic lights, turn left onto Adelaide Street, through next set of traffic lights, onto Temple Street, church is on the left, +353 71 916-2670. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 08:30, 10:30, 12:00, 17:00(in Polish), 19:00; M-F 07:15, 08:15, 10:30; Sa 08:15, 10:30, 19:00 (First Friday of each month). Beautiful 130+ year-old building in a Normano–Romano–Byzantine style, it is the only example of a Romanesque style Cathedral built during the 19th century in Ireland.

St. Anne's, Cranmore (Turn left at GPO, walk 40 m (44 yd) and turn right onto Rockwood Parade. Walk the length of the parade, turn right, take second left into Chapel Lane, Church is in front of you, +353 71 914-5028. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 10:30, 12:30, 19:00; M-F 10:00, 18:15, Sa 10:00.

St. Joseph's, Ballytivnan, +353 71 914-2422. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 11:00, 12:30, 19:00; M-Sa 10:00.

Dominican Friary, High St, +353 71 914-2700. Mass Times: Su 19:30 (on Saturday for Sunday Vigil), 09:30, 11:00, 12:15, 19:00; M-Sa 10:30 and 13:05. Holy Cross is the only church run by a religious order (rather than directly by the diocese) in the Diocese of Elphin.

• The Cathedral Church of St Mary the Virgin and St John the Baptist, John St. Service of Holy Communion Su 08:30, 1st, 3rd and 5th Su 10:30. Morning Prayer Services 2nd & 4th Su 10:30.

The Cathedral Church of St Mary the Virgin and St John the Baptist, John St. Service of Holy Communion Su 08:30, 1st, 3rd and 5th Su 10:30. Morning Prayer Services 2nd & 4th Su 10:30.

Sligo is very well located for exploring the Northwest Ireland and Lakelands area of Ireland, and the following are very easily accessible as day trips:

County Sligo.

• Carrowmore, on the Knocknarea peninsula. The site of a prehistoric ritual landscape. Around 30 megalithic tombs can be seen in Carrowmore today, older than Newgrange or Knowth (in the Brú Na Bóinne Archaeological Park in the east of Ireland) and which even predate the Egyptian Pyramids.
• Rosses Point. Rosses Point is a pretty little village with a beautiful golden sandy beach, perfect for families. The Atlantic Ocean is cold for swimming, but perfectly safe here. Sea boat trips are available from here.
• Strandhill. The village has undergoing much renovation, and has a great walking beach and dunes. It is not safe to swim here. It is, however, a great surfing beach.
• Knocknarea Mountain, Strandhill (Follow the R292 from Sligo, signposted on the left. Just over 1000 ft (305 m) high, and can be climbed in 20 to 40 minutes. Fantastic views of the coast-line with a very large cairn or burial mound on the summit, which local legend says is the grave of the ancient Celtic warrior Queen Maedbh (pronounced May-v). Climbers are requested not to climb on the cairn or to use the stones from the cairn.

  An old local tradition has it that a climber should bring a stone from the bottom of the mountain and place it on the cairn on the top. Failure to do so, according to the legend, will result in your dreams being haunted by the Queen Maeve!

• Ben Bulben. Prominent table mountain, dominating the landscape to the North. Can be climbed at certain points in about 1 hour or so. It is said to be the final resting place of Diarmuid and Gráinne, the eloping lovers from the Fenian cycle of Irish mythology.
• Coney Island. Said to have given its name to its better known namesake in New York City. In Irish it translates as Oilean na gCoiníní (Island of the Rabbits, Coinín means rabbit). If you're feeling adventurous, and the tide is out, you can drive across the strand to the island. Do check with locals regarding tide times, as almost every year tourists (and locals) get stuck in the sand.

County Donegal. The forgotten county, Donegal has some of the best scenery anywhere in Ireland. It is also probably the least developed county (from a tourist perspective) in Ireland, due to its relative isolation, and proximity to the border with Northern Ireland.

County Leitrim. The least densely populated county in Ireland, and suffered much from emigration, particularly during the 1950s to 1990s. In recent years the population has started to rise, and consequently, more development is occurring all over the county.

• Glencar Waterfall, Glencar, County Leitrim (take the N16 road north from Sligo in the direction of Manorhamilton, watch for signs to the left to Glencar, approximately 15 km (10 mi) from Sligo. Beautiful waterfall in a small narrow glen, immortalised by the poet W.B. Yeats in his poem, The Stolen Child: Where the wandering water gushes/From the hills above Glencar,/In pools among the rushes/That scarce could bathe a star.

County Mayo.

• Achill Island, stunning beaches making it a family holiday favourite.

County Galway.

• Galway is a thriving, bustling, university city, very popular with tourists, and well worth the 140 km (90 mi) trip down the N4/N17.

Carrowmore, on the Knocknarea peninsula. The site of a prehistoric ritual landscape. Around 30 megalithic tombs can be seen in Carrowmore today, older than Newgrange or Knowth (in the [[Brú Na Bóinne Archaeological Park]] in the east of Ireland) and which even predate the Egyptian Pyramids.

Rosses Point. [[Rosses Point]] is a pretty little village with a beautiful golden sandy beach, perfect for families. The Atlantic Ocean is cold for swimming, but perfectly safe here. Sea boat trips are available from here.

Strandhill. The village has undergoing much renovation, and has a great walking beach and dunes. It is not safe to swim here. It is, however, a great surfing beach.

Knocknarea Mountain, Strandhill (Follow the R292 from Sligo, signposted on the left. Just over 1000 ft (305 m) high, and can be climbed in 20 to 40 minutes. Fantastic views of the coast-line with a very large cairn or burial mound on the summit, which local legend says is the grave of the ancient Celtic warrior Queen Maedbh (pronounced May-v). Climbers are requested not to climb on the cairn or to use the stones from the cairn.

An old local tradition has it that a climber should bring a stone from the bottom of the mountain and place it on the cairn on the top. Failure to do so, according to the legend, will result in your dreams being haunted by the Queen Maeve!

Ben Bulben. Prominent table mountain, dominating the landscape to the North. Can be climbed at certain points in about 1 hour or so. It is said to be the final resting place of Diarmuid and Gráinne, the eloping lovers from the Fenian cycle of Irish mythology.

Coney Island. Said to have given its name to its better known namesake in [[New York City]]. In Irish it translates as Oilean na gCoiníní (Island of the Rabbits, Coinín means rabbit). If you're feeling adventurous, and the tide is out, you can drive across the strand to the island. Do check with locals regarding tide times, as almost every year tourists (and locals) get stuck in the sand.

Glencar Waterfall, Glencar, County Leitrim (take the N16 road north from Sligo in the direction of Manorhamilton, watch for signs to the left to Glencar, approximately 15 km (10 mi) from Sligo. Beautiful waterfall in a small narrow glen, immortalised by the poet W.B. Yeats in his poem, The Stolen Child: Where the wandering water gushes/From the hills above Glencar,/In pools among the rushes/That scarce could bathe a star.

Achill Island, stunning beaches making it a family holiday favourite.

[[Galway]] is a thriving, bustling, university city, very popular with tourists, and well worth the 140 km (90 mi) trip down the N4/N17.