Dooney Rock


Immortalised by Yeats in 'The Fiddler of Dooney' (1899), this fissured limestone knoll bulges awkwardly upward by the lough's southern shore. There's a great lake view from the top and you can park right at the bottom. Photographs over the lake can be stunning as the sun sinks at the end of the day. It's 7km southeast of Sligo town on the R287.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Sligo Abbey

2.82 MILES

This handsome Dominican friary was built around 1252 but burned down in the 15th century, to be later rebuilt. Friends in high places saved the abbey from…

2. Innisfree Island

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This pint-sized island lies tantalisingly close to the lough's southeastern shore, but, alas, can't be accessed. Still, it's visible from the shore. Its…

3. Model

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The Model houses an impressive collection of contemporary Irish art including works by Jack B Yeats (WB's brother and one of Ireland's most important…

4. Sligo County Museum

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The major draw of Sligo's small county museum is the Yeats room, which features photographs, letters and newspaper cuttings connected with WB Yeats. Also…

5. WB Yeats Statue

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Erected in 1989, this abstract statue of Yeats – with broken glasses – in front of the 1863 Ulster Bank (a building he admired) is the source of much…

6. Hyde Bridge

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This central stone bridge spanning the River Garavogue was built in 1845. It was originally named after Queen Victoria, then re-named after the first…

7. Yeats Memorial Building

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In a pretty setting in a former 1895 bank, the WB Yeats Exhibition has details of his life, draft manuscripts and special summer programs. Admission…

8. Michael Quirke's Studio

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Don’t miss a chat with woodcarver, raconteur and local legend Michael Quirke as he hand-carves his wooden creations. Opening times can vary, so take a…

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