On Kennedy Parade, the Garavogue still flows between the façades of central Sligo. Follow the river upstream and the views begin to change. Trees and reeds take over from the quays, before the hills emerge beyond the opposite bank. Doorly Park is the highlight of this walk. You can reach it on foot from the town centre for a green escape, or follow the Garavogue River Walk, an easy route combining the riverside with the park’s paths.
The park occupies a wetland area landscaped in the 19th century on the Cleveragh estate by Colonel William Gregory Wood-Martin. The name Doorly Park honours Edward Doorly, a former Bishop of Elphin. The landscape explored today therefore bears the marks of several different uses. Woodland and reedbeds lend parts of the park a rather wild feel, while paths and picnic areas make it an easy outing from the town. This proximity makes Doorly Park particularly convenient for a car-free stay. You can leave the shops behind and reach the first river views without having to plan an excursion elsewhere in the county.
The Discover Ireland listing describes a park combining woodland, water features and wetland habitats. As you walk, notice how the reeds break up the water’s surface and sometimes reveal the mountains in the distance. The nature trail passes through areas where you may spot bird boxes and bat roosts. These features give families something to look out for along the way. Search for them from the path and allow some time for the viewpoints. Depending on the light and wind, the same stretch of river can offer very different reflections on the outward and return journeys.
The route described by Sligo Walks begins on Kennedy Parade, at the blue-and-yellow Slí na Sláinte trail sign opposite the Embassy Rooms. Follow the path alongside the Garavogue upstream towards Doorly Park. Once in the park, take the nature trail, then return to the water’s edge via Crozon Promenade. From there, head back towards the town centre to return to Kennedy Parade. The river is your main point of reference for most of the route, while the detour through the park offers a change of scenery.
Sligo Walks gives the full route as 7 km, with little elevation gain. Allow around one and a half to two hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend stopping along the way. This timing is simply a planning guide. If you only have an hour or so, follow the river from Kennedy Parade and decide where to turn back according to the time remaining. If your main aim is to explore the wetlands or take a break at the playground, start directly at Doorly Park. The park and the starting point for the town loop are two separate reference points.
On foot from the town centre, Kennedy Parade lets you enjoy the full transition from town to park. By car, Sligo Walks notes parking at Doorly Park and Cleveragh Park. Doorly Park’s playground is listed in the local playground guide, with a separate reference point from that of the town trail. For a short walk, choose a section according to the condition of the paths and the group’s energy levels. If you need a barrier-free route, check the continuity of the path you intend to use. The walk’s easy rating mainly refers to its terrain and route type.
In the park, leave yourself enough time to explore the nearest paths before venturing further afield. Picnic tables provide a natural break in the outing, while the reedbeds are good places to pause and listen for birds. For an outing focused on wildlife watching, move slowly and stay on the paths. Bring binoculars if you have them. Gaps in the vegetation allow views across to the opposite bank without going down to the water’s edge.
The Garavogue connects Lough Gill with Sligo’s harbour area. The walk to Doorly Park reveals this connection from the town itself. It works well as a morning outdoors, followed by a return to the centre to visit Sligo Abbey. For a shorter outing, walk the riverside path one way, then return by the same route before visiting The Model. A full loop, on the other hand, is best enjoyed with time set aside for the reedbeds and openings onto the surrounding hills. These pauses, as much as the distance covered, are what make the walk worthwhile.
Want to extend your visit without having to rush around? Here are a few well-located places to stay near the must-see attractions.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Cleveragh Demesne, Sligo, County Sligo, Republic of Ireland, Tourist sites in Ireland
54.26688, -8.45468
Outdoor public park. No confirmed visiting hours were found in the sources consulted.
Check the opening hours and admission requirements before you leave, especially during peak season or on Irish public holidays.
Free access to the park and walking trail.
