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The best ways to enjoy a holiday in Leitrim
Take a cruise along the scenic River Shannon when you're in Leitrim.
With boat cruises, bike trails and grand towering castles, there’s lots to explore in lovely Leitrim. Whether you’re packing lots into your holiday or taking it at a leisurely pace, Leitrim is a chilled-out oasis filled with blissful waterways and friendly faces.

Read on for our favourite ways to spend a short holiday in Leitrim.

The best of Carrick-on-Shannon

Cruise the Shannon

The best way to enjoy a holiday in Leitrim is from the many beautiful waterways peppered throughout the county. From Carrick-on-Shannon, hire a boat and set sail on the tranquil Erne and Shannon waterways. Or, if you’d rather just relax, book your gang onto a boat tour.  

Cruise along the Shannon waterways from Carrick-on-Shannon.
Cruise along the Shannon waterways from Carrick-on-Shannon.

Leitrim Design Centre

An impressive celebration of local artistry on the banks of the Shannon, The Dock is Carrick-on-Shannon’s centre for the arts with theatre performances, exhibitions, workshops and classes all year round. It’s also home to Leitrim Design Centre, where you’ll find ceramics, textiles and prints created by local designers - the perfect souvenir from your trip to Leitrim.

Lough Rynn Castle

The historic estate of Lough Rynn Castle, just 20 minutes from Carrick-on-Shannon, is a must-see when visiting Leitrim. Whether you’re booked in for a night in one of the magnificent castle bedrooms or dining in the Sandstone Restaurant, Lough Rynn is one of the north-west’s most luxurious locations. While you’re there, make sure to take a stroll around the stunning lakeside and walled gardens.

Explore County Leitrim

Take an electric bike trail

Hop on your bike and enjoy the Shannon Blueway; a 20km circular route from Leitrim village to Drumshanbo. Hire your bike from Electric Bike Trails in Leitrim village where you’ll commence the tranquil, traffic-free loop that takes in the stunning, floating Acres Lake Boardwalk. Pack a picnic and stop off at one of the many benches along the way for al fresco snacks with a view.

People at Electric Bike Trails in County Leitrim
Cycle along the Acres Lake Boardwalk with Electric Bike Trails.

The Shed Distillery

Did you know that Ireland’s famous Gunpowder Gin, with its instantly recognisable, handsome blue bottle is distilled in Co. Leitrim? The internationally loved brand will soon be unveiling its brand new visitor experience at The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney, where gin lovers can gain a greater knowledge of the mix of oriental and Irish botanicals and distilling methods.

Kiltyclogher Heritage Centre and Seán MacDiarmada’s Cottage

One for the history buffs, at Kiltyclogher Heritage Centre you’ll learn all about the life of political activist Sean MacDiarmada, one of the signatories of the Proclamation of Irish Independence. The exhibition is largely focused on his role in the 1916 Rising and, nearby, his cottage is the last remaining home place of any of the seven signatories.

The Organic Centre

Explorers with an interest in wellness and organic food love The Organic Centre at Rossinver, in what’s become known as Leitrim’s bohemian north. Bursting with fresh produce and inspirational ideas for you to bring home to your own back garden, the centre features a grass roof and was awarded the Most Appropriate Building Located in the Countryside by An Taisce.

Learn how to grow some of your favourite fruits and veggies in the healthiest way possible by enrolling in one of the many gardening courses available for all levels.

A couple at The Organic Centre in County Leitrim
Sample some of the fresh produce at The Organic Centre.

Parkes Castle

Find out all about the rulers of the kingdom of Breffni at Parkes Castle; a plantation era, fortified manor house on the shores of Lough Gill. Originally the stronghold of the O'Rourke Clan, explore the cobbled courtyard, impressive turrets and round towers before discovering the castle’s fascinating past with an audio-visual exhibition.

A castle at the side of a lake surrounded by forest
Admire the turrets and towers at majestic Parkes Castle.
Lean into the fun in Leitrim

There’s endless opportunities for fun and adventure, or calm and tranquillity on a holiday in the Wild Rose County. Discover all the ways to enjoy a getaway to Leitrim

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