Derrybeg: Nature and History

Derrybeg offers two specific local points of interest to help you plan your trip: part of the townland lies within the Lough Gara Special Protection Area, and an old fort is documented in historical records. The wider destination of County Sligo adds its own nature, culture and activity themes to these local details.

Derrybeg: Bird Conservation and Historical Records

Part of the townland of Derrybeg lies within the Lough Gara Special Protection Area 004048, a special protection area for birds. In the wider area around Derrybeg, Lough Gara is regularly used by an internationally important population of Greenland White-fronted Geese. Their mean peak count was 510 birds over the five winters from 1995/96 to 1999/2000. An internationally important population of Whooper Swans also uses the lake; their mean peak count was 321 birds over the period from 1994/95 to 1998/99. Both figures refer to the respective historical five-year periods listed.

An old fort is also documented in historical records in Derrybeg. This adds a historical dimension to the area’s natural appeal without changing the clear geographical boundaries of the bird protection area.

Coast and Countryside in County Sligo

Within the wider destination of County Sligo, Streedagh Beach is a distinct coastal highlight. The three-kilometre sandy beach connects Streedagh Point with Connor's Island. Sand dunes and an estuary are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Surfing and windsurfing are possible in the coastal waters; stand-up paddleboarding takes place in the sheltered estuary. Check sea conditions before taking part in these activities.

Mullaghmore Head is a well-known surf spot in County Sligo; a walking route also follows its coastline. Check conditions before surfing and local conditions before setting out on a walk. At the foot of Benbulben, you can explore the mountain landscape via paths and small roads. Coney Island offers a different way to get around: at low tide, the island can be reached from Rosses Point by car or on foot via a five-kilometre causeway. As access depends on the tide, check tidal conditions before your trip.

Archaeology and Culture in County Sligo

Archaeological highlights in the wider area of County Sligo include Carrowmore and Carrowkeel. Carrowmore is Ireland’s largest and oldest concentration of Neolithic tombs. The site comprises more than 30 surviving monuments, almost 6,000 years old. Carrowkeel comprises tombs that are more than 5,000 years old and may be explored by visitors. You must not climb on or damage the tombs.

Sligo Abbey is a Dominican friary with extensive surviving medieval remains of its church, sacristy and chapter house. At Streedagh Beach, the Spanish Armada Visitor Centre presents recovered artefacts and immersive exhibitions about the wreck and its sole survivor. Check current visitor arrangements before travelling. Lissadell House & Gardens lies on the shore of Sligo Bay in the north of Sligo and was the childhood home of Countess Markievicz; visitors can enjoy woodland trails and walking paths there. At Sligo Folk Park, reconstructed village streets, cottages, a schoolhouse and twelve exhibitions offer insights into rural Ireland.

Discover more destinations: Riverstown, Ballymote, Inishcrone, Aclare, Collooney, Lavagh, Cloghboley, Barroe.

For the wider travel guide: County Sligo.