Grange: Mountains, Coast and Armada History

Grange lies directly on the Wild Atlantic Way, with the landscape set against the backdrop of Truskmore and the Kings Mountains. This gives the village profile two distinct points of interest: its location on a named route and its mountain scenery. When looking for hotels in Grange, local history and leisure activities may be just as important as these landscape features; they can help you choose the focus of your stay.

Coast and architecture

Nearby is Streedagh Beach, a 3 km stretch of sand connecting Streedagh Point with Connor's Island. Its length and two named endpoints give this stretch of coast a clearly defined geographical character. When choosing a destination, you can distinguish between Grange’s mountain setting and this separately described stretch of coast; they are different aspects of the landscape.

Grange is home to the Catholic Church of Mary Immaculate, a detached, rendered Catholic church built in 1908. Its architecture includes copper roofs and elaborate stained-glass windows; the interior feels bright and spacious. Its design, year of construction and features offer different points of interest for anyone interested in religious architecture as well as the landscape.

Armada history in Grange

The Spanish Armada Visitor Centre in the Old Courthouse offers an insight into the history of the Spanish Armada in the area. Exhibits include artefacts and replicas of three Spanish Armada ships that were wrecked at Streedagh Beach in September 1588. A visit also includes a screening of a half-hour documentary about Armada survivor Captain Francisco de Cuéllar.

Another connection to the events of 1588 is the annual “Remembering The Armada” festival, which commemorates Grange’s Armada history. Individual programme items may vary. This offers two distinct ways to engage with the subject: the exhibits and film at the Visitor Centre, and the recurring commemoration at the festival.

Leisure and practical information

Five Star Fun is an indoor play centre and café in the centre of Grange. Its facilities include electric go-karts and a 40-metre-long race track. As details may change when the layout is updated, it is advisable to check the latest information before visiting. Grandma’s Coffee Shop at Five Star Fun serves freshly prepared homemade food and snacks; check the menu before you travel.

The North Sligo Sports Centre in Grange offers athletics training for children, juniors, teenagers and adults. The specific training programme may change. If you would like to include training in your plans, check the latest times in advance.

Grange is served by Local-Link bus route 982. As route and timetable details may change, you should check the latest information before travelling. This lets you plan your journey separately from the things that interest you in Grange: scenery, Armada history, architecture or local leisure activities.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Ballygawley, Streedagh, Curry, Derry, Lavagh, Gorteen, Collooney, Tobercurry

For the overview of the wider area, see County Sligo.