Technically in Roscommon, this is worth the detour on the way back to Dublin. Honestly.

A functioning coal mine until 1991, you can get tours from former miners and get a very different sense of Ireland in the not-so-distant past.

Unsurprisingly, there are some lovely walks and hikes around Sligo and around Benbulben.

The Benbulben Forest Walk around the base of the mountain is an easy woodland loop with some spectacular views that we would recommend. Slishwood Forest is closer to Markree and offers another loop walk through forest along Lough Gill.

You won’t be able to avoid WB Yeats in Sligo (commonly known as Yeats Country). You can visit his resting place in Drumcliff or check out events on at the Yeats Society in Sligo town, which was run by Ciara’s school principal (Ms. Mew) upon her retirement. You won’t be able to avoid him!

Obviously we’re going to tell you where the best (and most expensive) coffee in Sligo town is…

For the coffee aficionados, they serve DAK, Friedhats and White Star coffees and also do a few “nice treats”

A bit further out in Strandhill, you’ll find coffee, buns and lunch in Shells Cafe.

And for the magpies, a VERY cute shop next door (Shells Little Shop) with lots of Irish homewares and gifts.

Above Donaghy’s bar is one of Sligo’s best restaurants for lunch or dinner.

If they ask if you want bread, get the bread.

Downstairs also does good pub food if you’re not up for anything fancy!