Just outside Sligo town is Ballisodare, so many people drive through it on their way to work, but it’s a wonderful place to stop and spend a while, and recently I’ve found myself there quite often, so here are some suggestions of things to do.
The Union Wood walk in Ballisodare is a gentle, family-friendly trail that combines nature with a touch of magic. The route is easy and accessible, winding through peaceful woodland filled with birdsong, wildlife, and small details that make it memorable. I love the hidden gnomes scattered along the path, the little library, and there’s even a tree where children leave their soothers behind. With multiple entry points and plenty to spot along the way, it’s the kind of walk that invites you to slow down and explore. I’ve been there several times, and I always spot something new.
Take some time to stop at the bridge opposite the grotto. You will see the sun rising over Ballisodare River, and if you look closely, you might even see the heron, waiting patiently for his breakfast. Both the photo above and the one below were taken at this location. The one above even ended up on TV!
No visit to Ballisodare is complete without a visit to the Ballisodare Falls. This is a stunning cascading waterfall, which is easily viewed from the village. The Falls are known for salmon fishing, drawing anglers who gather along the banks during the season.
Ballisodare is also part of the Yeats Trail. The poet, W. B. Yeats, spent time there visiting family and drawing inspiration from the local landscape and folklore. The village is closely linked to his famous poem ‘Down by the Salley Gardens’, believed to have been inspired by the willow-lined banks of the Ballisodare River and stories he heard from locals.
Take a walk to Scott’s Corner, it’s just past the falls, heading the Sligo town. You’ll see a car park, and the views over Ballisodare Bay and Knocknarea from there are spectacular. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and the wildlife.
Opposite The Thatch (a former pub – on the Collooney side of the town), you will see an entrance to the Knoxpark Walk. This was once a Viking settlement and is now home to a sculpture trail and sheep. Knoxpark is an area where landscape, art, archaeology, and nature meet. At first it looks like an ordinary field, but it’s actually part of a public art project called Regeneration, designed to guide visitors along a subtle path marked by stone features, seating, and viewpoints that frame the surrounding landscape.
Just outside Ballisodare on the N59 – heading towards Ballina, you will see the boat above – turn right down that road and there’s a walk down to the right to the ruins of St. Fechin’s church, and the old graveyard. This used to be very overgrown, and the local people have done a wonderful job tidying it up.
Further down the N59, you will see St Brigid’s Church in Corhownagh, Ballisodare. If you turn right at the church you will find the beautiful Streamstown. It’s a stunning location, home to a variety of wildlife, and it would be the perfect place to stop for a picnic. The ground is quite boggy though, so watch your step.
I hope this blog post has given you some inspiration of things to do in Ballisodare. Let me know if you have any other recommendations.
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