Things to do in Leitrim Ireland: A Great Guide to Exploring the Tranquil County

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Sara Lynch

County Leitrim is located in the northwest of Ireland. It is known for its unspoiled landscapes, picturesque villages, and a wealth of outdoor activities. Visiting the county is the perfect escape from city living and a place where you can enthral yourself in the joys of idyllic living and being surrounded by natural beauty. 

In this article, we have listed the best things to do in Leitrim Ireland, ensuring that you have a great time that is filled with worthwhile, memorable experiences. 

Where is County Leitrim in Ireland?

County Leitrim is located in the north and western sphere of Ireland. The large Lough Allen pools directly in the middle of the county and the County shares its borders with County Sligo and County Fermanagh.

What to do and see in Leitrim Ireland?

Leitrim is full of picturesque towns and villages that offer that escape to idyllic living. There are a lot of things to do in Leitrim Ireland, suited to a range of different interests, check them out below: 

Carrick-on-Shannon

Stroll through this charming riverside town, which features a range of shops, restaurants, and pubs. You can also enjoy a relaxing cruise on the River Shannon or take a guided walking tour to learn about the town’s history.

The Organic Centre

Visit this eco-friendly attraction to learn about organic gardening, sustainable living, and renewable energy. The centre offers workshops, courses, and special events throughout the year, introducing and welcoming visitors to an environmentally friendly way of living. 

Glencar Waterfall

This beautiful 50ft waterfall is located near the border of Leitrim and Sligo. It offers a lovely walking path with scenic views and a peaceful spot for setting up a picnic. It was also mentioned in W.B. Yeats’s poem “The Stolen Child.” 

Learn about the history and culture of Leitrim Ireland

Leitrim, Ireland is full of history and culture. It has several experiences and attractions on offer, sharing its rich heritage with visitors. Learn about the County’s industrial past and how life was once lived in these following attractions: 

Arigna Mining Experience

The Arigna Mining Experience is actually located in County Roscommon, which is quite close to the borders of both County Sligo and County Leitrim, Ireland. It is a unique visitor centre and museum that provides insights into the history of coal mining in the Arigna Valley, which dates back over 400 years.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine, led by former miners who share their firsthand experiences and knowledge of the industry. The tour takes you through a series of underground passages, giving you a realistic understanding of the working conditions faced by the miners during its operation.

The Cavan and Leitrim Railway

Discover Ireland’s railway heritage at this narrow-gauge railway museum, where you can see restored trains, vintage buses, and other transport memorabilia. This centre is also entirely run by volunteers who are like-minded railway enthusiasts. 

The Cavan and Leitrim Railway has been preserved as a heritage railway and museum, located in the town of Dromod in County Leitrim. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of the railway, its impact on the local area, and the broader history of narrow-gauge railways in Ireland.

Sliabh an Iarainn Mountain 

Hike up this 1,919 ft mountain to be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and rural natural landscapes. Sliabh an Iarainn was also once mined for its presence of iron ore deposits, hence its name that translates to “Mountain of Iron”.

In addition to its rich geological heritage, the mountain is also known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and birdwatchers. There are several trails available for exploring the mountain, ranging from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes. 

You can also stop by the Sliabh an Iarainn Visitor Centre on the foothills of the mountain to learn about the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

Outdoor activities in Leitrim Ireland

There are a plethora of locations that you can visit to embark on outdoor activities in Leitrim Ireland. Whether you want a peaceful fishing trip or a thrill-seeking adventure of kayaking and canoeing, you can find it here in Leitrim Ireland. 

Lough Allen

Lough Allen is a large lake surrounded by stunning landscapes that include rolling hills, forests, and peatlands. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

There are numerous water-based activities on offer, such as fishing, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. There are also several scenic walking routes around the lake and it is quite easy to spend the whole day exploring this idyllic part of Leitrim.

The Shannon Blueway 

The Shannon Blueway is a network of multi-activity recreational trails that run alongside the River Shannon and its tributaries in Ireland. The Blueway offers a range of outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the picturesque waterways of Leitrim and the surrounding countryside at their own pace.

The Shannon Blueway extends through several Irish counties, including Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford, and Offaly. The trails are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and fitness levels, offering a unique and engaging way to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.

Gardadice Lough 

Gardadice Lough is a picturesque freshwater lake located in County Leitrim, Ireland. It covers an area of approximately 389 hectares (961 acres) and is part of the larger Shannon-Erne Waterway system – a navigable route between the two rivers.

Gardadice Lough is known for its scenic beauty, tranquil surroundings, and excellent fishing opportunities. The lake’s numerous bays and inlets offer ideal fishing spots, and the calm waters make it suitable for both boat and shore fishing.

The area around Gardadice Lough is a haven for nature lovers, with an abundance of flora and fauna. It is an excellent location for birdwatching, with various bird species inhabiting the lake’s shoreline and surrounding woodlands. Walking and cycling routes along the lake offer beautiful views and opportunities to explore the local landscape.

Explore Leitrim Ireland

When you explore Leitrim Ireland, you’ll feel as though you have been whisked away into another world of peaceful, tranquil living. Its rich natural scenery presents itself wherever you look and is sure to make for an idyllic visit. 

Interested in visiting the surrounding counties of Leitrim? If so, check out: Things to do in Mayo | Things to do in Antrim | Things to do in Derry | Things to do in  Fermanagh | Things to do in Armagh | Things to do in County Down | Things to do in Tyrone | Things to do in Monaghan | Things to do in Roscommon | Things to do in Northern Ireland for Couples | Things to do in Northern Ireland for Families | Things to do in Donegal | Things to do in Sligo | Things to do in Louth  | Things to do in Cavan.