Steeped in history, Sligo plays host to numerous pre-historic remains, archaeological gems and areas of outstanding natural beauty; in fact, the renowned poet W.B. Yeats called Sligo "the land of heart's desire".

Among the historic locations, Sligo Abbey, for example, contains a wealth of carvings including Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculpture, well-preserved cloisters, and the only sculptured 15^th century high altar still standing in any Irish monastic church. Known locally as the Abbey, this Dominican Friary will inspire any visitor, young or old.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of the largest such tombs in Ireland, is also among the country's oldest. Over 60 tombs have been located by archaeologists, the oldest of which pre-date Newgrange by around 700 years. Another megalithic cemetery, Carrowkeel hill top passage tomb is worth a visit. While Knocknarea, believed locally to be the burial place of the legendary Queen Maeve whose father, the High King of Ireland, gave her Connaght as a gift is a significant site. Archaeologists believe it may date back to 3000 BC.

An organised tour of the Lake Isle of Innisfree offers visitors the opportunity to visit the area of "outstanding natural beauty" that's steeped in myth and legend, which inspired Yeats to write his world-famous poetry.

No trip to Sligo would be complete without a visit to Drumcliffe, the location of W.B. Yeats' grave with its meaningful inscription "Cast a cold eye on life, on death. Horseman, pass by!" An absolute must.

Quaint village pubs, as well as more modern establishments in Sligo City itself, will appeal to guests looking for the renowned Irish "craic", as well as families who want to relax in a welcoming atmosphere or who simply want to sit back and enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Those seeking out traditional Irish pubs with lively music and a warm atmosphere will be spoiled for choice in Sligo. Old-fashioned pubs with woodburning stoves and local musicians dropping in for a "session" are plentiful throughout the city, while bars that broadcast major sporting events and offer karaoke nights are also dotted around Sligo.   

One of the most popular past times in Sligo is going for a round of golf, and certainly there's no shortage of top-class golf courses to choose from. County Sligo Golf Club in the wonderful location of Rosses Point; Enniscrone Golf Club, which is regarded as one of Ireland's finest links courses; Strandhill Golf Course, which has been called "the jewel of the West" by golfing legend Christy O'Connor; and the newly opened Castle Dargan, designed by Irish golfer Darren Clarke, to name but a few.

Hill-walking and horse-riding are also popular outdoor pursuits for all ages. Sligo's countryside is dotted with wonderful trails such as the well-known Ladies' Brae, or the imposing Benbulben, for the more adventurous walkers. Meanwhile, Sligo's many beaches make ideal locations for horse-riding, with Culleenamore Strand, Ballysadare Bay and Streedagh the more notable choices.  

Maurice Fitzgerald, a Norman knight and the Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, is generally credited with the establishment of the town and port of Sligo, and built the Castle of Sligo in 1245. The Normans were stopped in northwest Connacht after the battle of Credran Cille in 1257 at Rosses Point between the Lord of Tirconnell, and Maurice Fitzgerald. Both commanders were mortally wounded in single combat. This result prevented Norman expansion continuing in the northwest of Ireland.

Until the late 16^th century, the town continued under native Irish control. During the Elizabethan conquest, Sligo was selected as the county town for the County of Sligo, and the Elizabethan Government sent an order do Sir Nicholas Malby, requesting him to establish safe places to keep the Assizes & Sessions, with walls of lime and stone for each county. Sligo was considered the most appropriate location for the County of Sligo, however, the walls were never built.

The Great Famine between 1847 and 1851 caused over 30,000 people to emigrate through the port of Sligo. On the Quays, overlooking the Garavogue River, is a cast bronze memorial to the emigrants. This is one of a suite of three sculptures commissioned by the Sligo Famine Commemoration Committee to honour the victims of the Great Famine.