Leitrim in the winter? Really? Absolutely! Winter in the North West is a time when prices are lower, accommodation is more available, and destinations are not quite so busy. This means travelling can be easier at this time of the year. It may be Winter but as we all know, there is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate rain gear! But the colder weather provides an excuse for us all to spend some quiet time relaxing, pampering ourselves, and enjoying a bit more time in cosy environments. Read on for some insider information on things to keep you occupied in Leitrim in the Winter.
A Wild Atlantic Walk
You can’t get much more invigorating than a coastal walk on a winter’s day. While Leitrim’s coastline is famously short, we do technically have 3 kms of The Wild Atlantic Way at Tullaghan Strand in the north of the county – but Co. Sligo has some of the most fantastic coastal stretches in the country, all reachable within an hour by car from Carrick-on-Shannon, and beach trips to towns like Strandhill or Rosses Point are popular all year round. It’s a well known fact that the surf is up during winter, so you could even drag on your wetsuit and catch a few waves! Don’t forget that when you get back to base here at Carrick Self Catering, you’ll have your choice of exceedingly good hostelries to get a hearty meal to keep you warm.
Read a Good Book
Sometimes getting away from it all simply means having a bit of quiet time for yourself and a good book to read. Here in Carrick-on-Shannon, we are very proud of our bookshops. The Reading Room, on Bridge St. is an independently run bookshop established in 2006. The team here provides a wide and eclectic selection of books. They offer expert advice based on customer preferences, and accept national book vouchers – perfect if you are out of town.
With a children’s and young adults section, as well as a fabulous range of fiction and non-fiction you won’t be stuck for a good book if you left your current read at home by the bed.
If browsing around vintage bookshops is your thing, just across the road from the Reading Room, you will find Trinity Rare Books – an absolute treasure trove of antique, secondhand books and a selection of old records. There are plenty of gems to be found in this quaint and quirky bookshop, a little bit off the beaten track, but definitely worth a look!
Iron Mountain Festival
If you happen to be here in October, each year in that month the Iron Mountain Festival takes place between Leitrim and Cootehall in north Roscommon – both formerly home to the late John McGahern, a writer of tremendous importance in 20th century Irish literature.
The Guardian newspaper described him as “arguably the most important Irish novelist since Samuel Beckett”. The weekend’s events generally include a boat trip on the Moon River cruiser from Carrick to Cootehall, to visit the McGahern Museum, and a couple of pre-organised events including performances at The Dock in Carrick, and an organised session of traditional music.
Speaking of McGahern, if you are in the area from March 2025, the McGahern Museum in the quaint village of Cootehall, will re-open for the season. You will need to book in advance to visit this small community driven Museum, but it is well worth the visit. You will meet local tour guides who are passionate about telling the story of this wonderful writer who spent much of his childhood in the village.
For more information take a look at www.mcgahernbarracks.ie
Cryan’s Teach Ceoil
A traditional Irish music pub, serving up the best pints and sessions in Carrick, since 1956! Cryan’s is where you will find the locals socialising after a hard day at work, as they welcome the weekend, or even mid-week, for a bit of music. There will be trad, bluegrass, folk… and a bit of dancing too. Just a short walk from any of our properties, and with music all year round, it is the place to be for an authentic Irish seisiún ceoil.
Arigna Mining Experience & The Shed Distillery
And if you’re looking to add a few more memorable activities to your winter itinerary that don’t require you to be outdoors, there are some unique nearby attractions that make for perfect winter outings. Take a trip to the Arigna Mining Experience, where every December the mines come alive with the magic of Santa’s Underground Grotto. This festive event offers a unique and exciting experience for all the family, including a visit to Santa in his underground grotto, gifts for everyone, and plenty of fun-filled activities like meeting the busy elves, enjoying sweet treats, and exploring the illuminated winter Alpine landscape. It’s a magical adventure not to be missed!
Or, venture to The Shed Distillery in Drumshanbo, home of the renowned Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin, where you can enjoy a guided tour and tasting session in their cozy, atmospheric distillery. Both spots offer something truly special and are just a short drive away, making them excellent additions to your Carrick-on-Shannon winter escape.
So, you see, there’s plenty to keep you occupied on your winter visit to Leitrim – whether indoors or outdoors, daytime or evening.
Philip, your dedicated host here at Carrick Self Catering will answer all your queries. So why not give him a call at +353866029755 or get in touch through the ‘contact’ section of our website for more information about your upcoming visit.
