New Coach Bay at Sligo Abbey Enhances Visitor Access to Iconic Heritage Site

A newly designated coach bay has been introduced outside the historic Sligo Abbey, offering significantly improved access for visiting tourists and school groups.

This enhancement allows coach operators to conveniently drop off and pick up visitors just steps away from one of Sligo’s most treasured heritage sites. The new coach bay is a welcome development for tour providers, educational groups, and independent travel planners seeking easier access to the Abbey — a treasure of Sligo and one of the key highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way experience in the northwest.

Sligo Abbey, dating back to the mid-13th century, is a unique Dominican Friary known for its sculptured tombs, well-preserved cloister, and Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The site draws thousands of visitors each year, and this new infrastructure improves the visitor experience while easing logistical challenges for group travel.

Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Cllr Declan Bree welcomed the move as a key step in facilitating heritage-led tourism and improving the visitor experience in Sligo. “Sligo County Council were delighted to collaborate with the team at Sligo Abbey and help facilitate this improvement to the visitor experience in Sligo. We place great value on our heritage and want to encourage more coach and school tour groups to enjoy this fascinating place that plays such a central role in the history of Sligo”.

It is expected that the new bay will encourage increased inclusion of the Abbey in regional tour itineraries and school excursions.

For more information about visiting Sligo including all of the experiences available please visit www.sligo.ie/visit and use the brand new Ideas Engine tool to create your personalised itinerary.