Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Sligo with a stay at The Schoolhouse at Annaghmore, a charming retreat in the care of Irish Landmark Trust. Built in the 1860s, The Schoolhouse is an enchanting rural building, nestled by the picturesque Owenmore River and surrounded by mature woodland.

The Schoolhouse offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern comforts. Its location allows visitors to easily explore nearby Sligo town, with its bustling streets, cosy cafes, boutique shops, and the final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Not far from stunning beaches and historical landmarks like Lissadel House, visitors can experience both relaxation and adventure.

For those seeking natural beauty, the coastal areas of Strandhill, Mullaghmore, and Enniscrone are within driving distance. Sligo's rugged landscapes, serene lakes, and great surfing spots ensure a memorable holiday for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Schoolhouse at Annaghmore, a two-storey rendered house with a gabled porch, framed by leaves

History of the Schoolhouse Annaghmore 

The Schoolhouse at Annaghmore stands as a significant educational landmark for the local community. This schoolhouse was key in shaping the early education of local young students from when it was built in the 1860’s. The property now offers guests a unique glimpse into Irish educational history while providing modern, comfortable accommodations.

Preservation efforts have honoured the building's original essence while making it suitable for holiday stays. Visitors can not only enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape but also immerse themselves in the historical ambience of the schoolhouse. This blend of history and hospitality makes it a compelling destination.

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

Once you have arrived, take some time to explore the property and its surroundings. You could then spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Sligo Folk Park in Riverstown. This is an interesting open-air museum that showcases rural life in Ireland from the 18th century onwards. (15-minute drive). Start planning your visit on the Sligo Folk Park website. 

Afterwards, enjoy dinner at The Bridge Bar & Restaurant in Riverstown, known for its hearty pub food. For up-to-date menus and booking, see their page. 

Whitewashed farmhouse with blue trim behind a gravel yard with old red farm machinery

Day 2: Discover Sligo Town

Today head to Sligo Town and visit the Yeats Building. Here, the Yeats Society organise talks and tours on request. Upstairs is the light filled Hyde Bridge Gallery, where there are 11 exhibitions a year, which are free to visit. Access to their eclectic book collection in the library, overlooking the river, can be booked in advance.

Afterwards, visit The Model Contemporary Arts Centre and home to the Niland Collection. They have an exciting and interesting programme of events throughout the year. To plan your visit, see The Model’s website.

Finally, we recommend exploring Sligo Abbey, a Dominican Friary with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. 

For a high-end dining experience, try Eala Bhán and really make a night of it. Menu features local, seasonal ingredients and delicious drinks.

Roofless stone church ruin with a tower and arcade of arches, sun bursting through an arch

Day 3: Coastal Beauty & Beaches

Sligo’s coastline is home to some of the best beaches in Ireland, including Strandhill, Enniscrone, and Mullaghmore. This makes it a surfer’s paradise, and its endless beaches are also perfect for walks, swims or to try horse riding.  Check out this list for some of the best surfing beaches in Sligo. 

Family of four walking hand in hand across a wide sandy beach under a cloudy sky

We recommend that you drive to Strandhill (a 17-minute drive) for a relaxing morning walk or swim at the beach. While there you could try out a seaweed bath at Voya Seaweed Baths for a unique wellness experience. 

If you would like to try surfing, Strandhill is one of the most popular surf spots in the Country. There are a number of surf schools in the area and they cater for all levels.  

In the afternoon, visit Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of the largest collections of megalithic tombs in Ireland. 

In the early evening, you could come back to Strandhill for dinner at Shells Café, a popular spot for fresh, locally sourced meals. Alternatively, try the Strand Bar for delicious food and drinks.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

Sligo is a great county for walks, to name a few: The Glen, Devils Chimney, Benbulben Forest Walk, Caves of Keash, and Glencar Waterfall. Read a full list of great walks in Sligo.

Waterfall dropping into a pool in a wooded glen with mossy rocks and ferns

One of the best known is Knocknarea Mountain to see Queen Maeve’s Cairn and enjoy panoramic views of Sligo. 

In the afternoon, visit Lough Gill and take a boat trip to the Isle of Innisfree, made famous by W.B. Yeats’ poem. Boat tours depart from the centre of Sligo Town and travel along the Garavogue River for 30 minutes to reach the beautiful lake of Lough Gill. 

For a restoring dinner after your day's adventures, you could try Coach Lane Restaurant in Sligo Town, known for its cosy atmosphere and excellent food.

Day 5: Historical Sites & Culture

Explore Parke's Castle, a beautifully restored 17th-century plantation castle on the shores of Lough Gill.

Stone fortified house with round corner towers beside a lake, with a road sign in front

In the afternoon, visit the Sligo County Museum (ideal for a wet day!). The Museum contains a fascinating collection of exhibits detailing Sligo’s rich stone-age history, including a large firkin of 100-year-old bog butter. 

The Yeats Room here is full of manuscripts, photographs, letters, and newspaper cuttings associated with the celebrated poet. Also in the museum, you will see paintings by Irish artists George Russell, Sean Keating, and Jack. B. Yeats, brother of W.B.

There is also a display of artefacts and memorabilia associated with Countess Constance Markievicz and her sister Eva Gore-Booth.  

Day 6: Drumcliffe & Sligo Food Tour

In the morning, take a short drive to the charming village of Drumcliffe to see the final resting place of W.B. Yeats and the historic Drumcliffe Church. (20-minute drive).  

Church interior with wooden pews and galleries facing a large stained-glass window

In the afternoon, take a tour with Sligo Food Trails. They have several excellent foodie experiences on offer. To learn more and book, see Sligo Food Trails’ food experiences.

Day 7: Visit Lissadel House

A visit to Lissadell House is highly recommended. (25-minute drive from The Schoolhouse).

A combination of museum and home, Lissadell House was once the abode of the Gore-Booths, with two of the 5 siblings being Constance and Eva, revolutionary and suffragette, respectively. They also have lovely tea rooms. Plan your visit and make a booking on the Lissadell House website.

Walled garden with lavender, gravel paths and a lawn looking out over a bay
Lissadell House and Gardens County Sligo Ireland

Places to Eat 

Tips from the House Manager 

  • Car Rental: Having a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding areas comfortably.  

  • Bike Rental: If you would like to explore the area by bike, visit Coolaney national mountain bike centre. 

  • Try some beer from local Lough Gill Brewery or some whiskey from Lough Gill Distillers

  • Why not let a local expert show you around by booking a tour, check out Sligo Tours for more.

 

When to visit

Sligo is great to visit at any time. The weather is generally better March - October, but it is a lovely cosy spot to visit in Wintertime too. There is a lively cultural and music scene in Sligo. In addition to the plentiful events that take place throughout the year, Sligo also has a number of headline events that take place annually. In July there is the Arts Festival, in August the Yeats Summer School, the Summer Festival and Sligo racing festival. In October they have Sligo Live. For a full list of events in Sligo throughout the year visit Sligo’s annual events page.

When booking your stay at Schoolhouse at Annaghmore or any other Irish Landmark Trust property, keep in mind that the longer you stay, the more affordable the nightly rate becomes. With so much to see and do in the area, it’s well worth considering extending your visit by an extra night or two to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of County Sligo. To book your stay visit the Schoolhouse at Annaghmore.

Please note that everything in this itinerary is correct at time of writing (Spring 2026). Please always consult the relevant website for up-to-date information and booking details.

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