Tullaghan: Atlantic Coast and Architectural History

When looking for a hotel for a trip to Tullaghan, you can choose where to stay based on two main attractions: the Atlantic coastline and the area’s architectural and cultural heritage. For a broader stay, the wider destination of County Leitrim offers additional nature and cultural experiences.

Coast and Access to the Atlantic

Tullaghan’s coastal area lies within an area of outstanding natural beauty. The coastal road, with views of the open Atlantic, also helps orient visitors around the area. The “Access to the Sea” project opened on 27 June 2024 and provides public access to Leitrim’s only coastal stretch. It includes an accessible access road, a car park and seating with views of the landscape. Check local facilities before your trip.

Church and Local Architectural History

Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church is a single-nave Roman Catholic church in Tullaghan, built around 1930. Its simple architecture includes understated stained-glass windows and plain Celtic cross finials. The church is on a quiet country road overlooking the Atlantic. Tullaghan House is a protected structure listed in the NIAH.

Tullaghan Cross adds an older history to these architectural landmarks. It is an ancient high cross. According to tradition, it was discovered on the shore after a storm; in 1778, the local landowner erected the cross. Its erection therefore predates the construction of the church around 1930 by a considerable margin.

The road network also provides a practical point of reference: the N15 national road runs through Tullaghan. Alongside this road reference, the coastal road and its Atlantic views serve as a scenic landmark.

More to Explore in County Leitrim

Across the wider destination of County Leitrim, trails and regional cultural sites complement the local attractions. The first section of the Shannon Blueway comprises 16.5 kilometres of waterways as well as circular walking and cycling trails between Drumshanbo and Carrick-on-Shannon. The Leitrim Way offers a different scale: this 56-kilometre long-distance walking trail runs from Manorhamilton to Leitrim Village and usually takes two to three days to complete. These details show the different route formats and timeframes to consider when planning a trip.

Another route detail concerns the Acres Lake Boardwalk. The 600-metre boardwalk is part of a 6.5-kilometre linear walking and cycling trail from Acres Lake in Drumshanbo to Battlebridge Lock near Leitrim Village. As trail conditions can change, check them before your visit.

County Leitrim’s cultural sites each have their own appeal. Parke’s Castle is a restored early 17th-century castle on the northern shore of Lough Gill. Creevelea Abbey is a Franciscan abbey built in County Leitrim in 1508. It lies on the Sligo Way, an 80-kilometre walking trail with routes through higher terrain.

Discover more destinations: Ballinamore, Carrigallen, Drumshanbo, Mohill, Keshcarrigan, Manorhamilton, Carnhill, Drumreagh.

For the wider travel overview: County Leitrim.