Sligo is one of the best counties in Ireland for families who love the outdoors. Between dramatic mountains, sandy beaches and gentle woodland trails, there’s no shortage of things to do or places to see once the weather cooperates (even a little).
Here are some of the best outdoor places in Sligo for families to explore together, whatever age your kids are.
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Outdoor Places in Sligo for Families
Gleniff Horseshoe
Go for a walk and enjoy nature at the Gleniff Horseshoe, a hidden valley with stunning scenery in North County Sligo.
At the base of the Horseshoe route you’ll find a renovated millsite, with a lovely nature walk and sculpture trail, plus picnic tables for a break along the way.
This is also where you’ll find Sligo’s famous “Magic Road” — an optical illusion where your car appears to roll back up the hill.
Sligo Beaches
The beach isn’t just for summer! Sligo is spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches. Enniscrone has 5km of sandy beach to explore, while Mullaghmore Beach is another stunning stretch of coastline in North County Sligo, about 25km from Sligo town via the N15, right beside the town of Mullaghmore.
Family Walks in Sligo
Get suited and booted and head out for a hike with a picnic. There are several forest trails to choose from, including those in Union Wood near Collooney.
Alternatively, try hiking up Knocknarea to visit Queen Maeve’s Grave. This mountain may be lesser known than Ben Bulben, but it’s still an amazing sight as you arrive in Sligo — and it’s a doable climb for active kids.
There’s always Ben Bulben itself, or the Carrowkeel tombs at Castlebaldwin, both of which have family-friendly, way-marked trails.
The Sligo Way
For families with older children looking for a bit of a challenge, the Sligo Way is a 74km long-distance walking trail. It’s divided into 7 sections, each representing roughly half a day’s walking. The trail starts at Lough Talt and ends in Dromahair, so it’s easy to tackle in stages rather than all at once.
Hazelwood Demesne, Sligo
Hazelwood Demesne offers picturesque walks around the shores of Lough Gill, suitable for the whole family. They’re particularly beautiful in autumn, when the trees turn shades of red, orange and yellow.
There are several different walking routes here, including the Sculpture Tour, where you’ll spot wooden sculptures by Irish and international artists dotted along the track.
Doorly Park
Doorly Park sits along the riverside in Sligo town, about a 10-minute walk from the town centre. It has:
- a playground
- a court
- a green area for games
- fitness equipment
Fun for all the family! Afterwards, take a stroll along Lough Gill and feed the ducks.
Article written by Katherine, mum of 2
Related Articles
Looking for more ideas for outdoor days out in Sligo? You might also enjoy:
- Best Picnic Spots in Sligo
- Nature Walks in Sligo
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Sligo
- Things to Do in Sligo with Preschoolers
FAQs About Outdoor Places in Sligo for Families
What is the best outdoor spot in Sligo for families with young children?
Doorly Park and Hazelwood Demesne are both great choices for younger children, thanks to easy, flat walking routes, a playground at Doorly Park, and gentle scenery at Hazelwood that’s easy to enjoy at a toddler’s pace.
Are there free places to enjoy the outdoors in Sligo?
Yes, most of the outdoor spots in this guide — including the walking trails, beaches, and Doorly Park — are free to visit and enjoy.
Which Sligo walk suits older kids and teens?
The Sligo Way is a good option for older children looking for a proper challenge, as it’s a long-distance trail split into manageable half-day sections. Ben Bulben and Knocknarea also offer more adventurous climbs for active kids.
Is Knocknarea suitable for children to climb?
Knocknarea is a doable climb for active kids, and it’s a popular alternative to Ben Bulben, with the added tradition of leaving a stone at Queen Maeve’s Grave at the summit.
What’s the best beach in Sligo for families?
Enniscrone, with its 5km of sandy beach, and Mullaghmore Beach in North County Sligo are both excellent choices for a family beach day.
Save These Ideas for Your Next Sligo Day Out
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