Attractions and Places To See around Leitrim - Top 20

Leitrim is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the captivating Glencar Waterfall, famously referenced by W.B. Yeats, or witness Ireland's highest waterfall, The Devil's Chimney Waterfall, especially impressive after rainfall. Fowley's Falls offers a series of cascades, and Lough Allen provides a tranquil setting for water activities. For panoramic views, consider Slieve Croob Summit, the highest peak of the Dromara Hills, offering expansive vistas across County Down and towards the Mourne Mountains. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk also provides a unique experience through a 6000-year-old sand dune system.

Yes, Leitrim has a rich history. Explore Parke's Castle, a beautifully restored 17th-century plantation castle on Lough Gill, or the medieval Creevelea Friary, one of the last abbeys founded before Henry VIII's dissolution. The unique Costello Chapel in Carrick-on-Shannon is noted as one of the smallest chapels in the world. You can also step back in time at the Cavan and Leitrim Railway in Dromod, offering a vintage railway experience, or visit prehistoric sites like Corracloona Megalithic Tomb and Aghaderrard Court Tomb.

Families can enjoy a variety of attractions. Tollymore Forest Park offers many hiking trails and a campsite, perfect for a day out. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk is also family-friendly, allowing exploration of a diverse ecosystem. For a unique experience, Glencar Alpacas offers guided alpaca walks with scenic views. The Glenview Folk Museum provides a fascinating look at rural Irish heritage, and the Cavan and Leitrim Railway is a hit with all ages.

Absolutely. Leitrim offers diverse outdoor activities. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk in Drumshanbo is part of the wider Shannon Blueway, suitable for walking, cycling, canoeing, and kayaking. For hiking, Tollymore Forest Park has numerous trails, and the Miners Way & Historical Trail is a captivating walking route through stunning landscapes. If you're interested in gravel biking, there are routes around Leitrim, such as the "View of Castlewellan Castle – Castlewellan Lake loop from Castlewellan" or the "View of Castlewellan Castle – Castlewellan Peace Maze loop from Newcastle." You can find more details on these and other routes on the Gravel biking around Leitrim guide.

Leitrim holds several unique spots. The Costello Chapel in Carrick-on-Shannon is a tiny, poignant chapel. The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney in Drumshanbo offers tours to learn about gin distillation. Explore the ancient Sweathouses, unique stone igloo-like structures believed to be ancient saunas. Sheemore, the 'Hill of the Fairies,' is a rich archaeological complex with remarkable views, and the Rainbow Ballroom of Romance is a cultural landmark hosting events and an exhibition of showband memorabilia.

While specific accessibility details vary by location, the Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk is designed to be accessible, allowing visitors to experience the sand dune system. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk also provides a smooth, level surface for enjoying the water views. It's always recommended to check directly with individual attractions for their specific accessibility provisions.

Many outdoor areas in Leitrim are dog-friendly, especially trails and parks. For example, Tollymore Forest Park is generally welcoming to dogs on leads. However, policies can vary for indoor attractions or nature reserves with sensitive wildlife. It's advisable to check the specific rules for each attraction beforehand to ensure a pleasant visit for you and your pet.

Leitrim's natural attractions, especially its waterfalls like Glencar Waterfall and The Devil's Chimney, are particularly spectacular after rainfall, which can occur throughout the year. The warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offer more pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring historical sites. However, the lush green landscapes are beautiful in any season.

For easy walks, Tollymore Forest Park offers several paths suitable for casual day trips or short hikes. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk provides a flat and accessible route through a unique ecosystem. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk is another excellent option for a gentle stroll with scenic views over the water. Many sections of the Shannon Blueway are also suitable for easy walking.

Lough Allen, a large lake on the River Shannon, is a tranquil setting perfect for various water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking. Its calm waters make it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploring the natural beauty of the area from a different perspective.

Visitors to Leitrim frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the waterfalls and serene loughs. The sense of peace and escape from daily life is a common highlight. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails and the opportunity for outdoor activities. The historical sites, like Parke's Castle, are valued for their insights into the past, and unique experiences like the Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk are often mentioned for their novelty and scenic views. The komoot community has shared 11 photos and given 16 upvotes, indicating a strong appreciation for the region's offerings.

Leitrim's waterways are a central feature of the county. You can experience them directly through activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing on Lough Allen. For a more relaxed experience, consider a Moon River cruise on the River Shannon from Carrick-on-Shannon or the Rose of Innisfree Tourboat on Lough Gill, both offering scenic views. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk also allows you to stroll directly above the water, providing a unique perspective.