Attractions and Places To See around Leitrim - Top 5

Leitrim boasts a variety of natural wonders. You can visit the captivating Glencar Waterfall, famously associated with W.B. Yeats, or witness the impressive Devil's Chimney Waterfall, Ireland's highest, particularly after rainfall. Fowley's Falls offers a series of cascades over blue limestone, and Lough Allen provides a beautiful setting for relaxation. Don't miss the unique The Dark Hedges, an avenue of ancient beech trees that is a well-known natural phenomenon.

Yes, Leitrim is rich in history. Explore the beautifully restored 17th-century Parke's Castle on Lough Gill, or discover the medieval Franciscan friary of Creevelea Abbey near Dromahair. You can also step back in time at the Cavan and Leitrim Railway in Dromod, featuring vintage locomotives. For a unique experience, visit Gracehill House, a stately home built in 1775.

Carrick-on-Shannon, known as Ireland's boating capital, offers water-based activities and local boutiques. You can take a tour at The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney in Drumshanbo to learn about gin-making, or explore local art at the Leitrim Design House. The Glenview Folk Museum provides a fascinating look into rural Irish heritage.

Absolutely. Many natural sites like Glencar Waterfall and The Dark Hedges are suitable for families. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk in Drumshanbo offers an accessible stroll over water. For a unique animal encounter, Glencar Alpacas offers guided walks with panoramic views.

Yes, County Leitrim is home to several ancient sites. You can visit officially recognized national monuments such as the Aghaderrard Court Tomb and Corracloona Court Tomb. Other significant ancient sites, including court-tombs and wedge-tombs, can be found in areas like Aghamore, Fenagh Beg, and Shesknan.

Leitrim offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling with routes like the 'Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle loop' or 'Ballymoney to Dooey's Cairn loop'. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are challenging routes such as the 'Torr Head loop'. Hiking is also popular, with easy trails like the 'Gracehill House – The Dark Hedges loop'. Find more options in the Cycling around Leitrim, Road Cycling Routes around Leitrim, and Easy hikes around Leitrim guides.

Leitrim has some truly unique spots. Visit the Costello Chapel in Carrick-on-Shannon, noted as the smallest chapel in Europe. The Arigna Mining Experience, located close to the Leitrim border, offers underground tours through a former coal mine. For a touch of nostalgia, the Rainbow Ballroom of Romance is a historic dancehall that still hosts events and features showband memorabilia.

The Leitrim Design House, situated in The Dock Arts Centre in Carrick-on-Shannon, is an excellent place to discover local arts and crafts. It showcases the work of over 200 artists, offering a wide range of unique pieces.

You can enjoy scenic boat tours on Leitrim's waterways. Moon River cruises offer a one-hour round trip along the River Shannon from Carrick-on-Shannon. Alternatively, the Rose of Innisfree Tourboat operates on Lough Gill, providing beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings.

Visitors frequently appreciate the natural beauty, such as the impressive avenue of ancient beech trees at The Dark Hedges. The historical significance of sites like Gracehill House also receives positive feedback. Many also enjoy the local hospitality and refreshment options, such as Tea at Tilly's, which is noted for its coffee and food.

Yes, The Organic Centre in Rossinver is dedicated to inspiring visitors to grow food organically and live sustainably. It's a great place to learn about environmental practices and healthy living.

For those interested in tracing their family roots, the Leitrim Genealogy Centre is available to assist with research into ancestors from County Leitrim. Additionally, the St. George's Heritage Centre in Carrick-on-Shannon offers insights into ecclesiastical history and ancient artifacts.