Overview
Collooney (Irish: Cúil Mhuine) sits a few miles south‑west of Sligo town, at the crossroads of the N4 Dublin‑Sligo route and the N17 Sligo‑Galway road. Though modest in size, the town punches above its weight with a blend of history, natural beauty and a surprisingly active transport legacy. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of United Irishmen, hunting for a quiet fishing spot on the Ballysadare River, or simply soaking up the rolling Ox Mountain scenery, Collooney offers a welcoming base for a County Sligo adventure.
History
The most dramatic episode in Collooney’s past unfolded during the 1798 Irish Rebellion. On 27 September, a combined French‑Irish force under General Humbert clashed with British troops from the Sligo garrison at Carricknagat, just outside the town. The United Irishmen’s Bartholomew Teeling captured a British gun, an act commemorated today by the prominent Teeling Monument that stands on the town’s main road. The monument not only marks the battle but also serves as a tangible link to the revolutionary spirit that once surged through the region.
Industrial ambition arrived in the 18th century when Charles O’Hara established a bleach mill to boost Sligo’s textile output. The mill attracted skilled weavers and bleachers from the north, creating a small but thriving community. Over the decades the site diversified, even producing carbide before finally closing its doors in 1956. The surviving mill building, with its sturdy stone walls, now offers a glimpse into the town’s industrious past.
Railway enthusiasts will find Collooney’s transport story particularly fascinating. By the late 19th century the town boasted three separate railway stations, each serving a different company: the Midland Great Western (Dublin‑Mullingar line), the Great Southern and Western (Claremorris/Limerick line), and the Sligo, Leitrim and Northern Counties Railway (Manorhamilton-Enniskillen line). The remaining station, opened on 3 December 1862, still operates on the Dublin‑Sligo line, while the disused lines have been suggested as future walking or cycling routes, preserving the “Burma Road” heritage of countless level crossings.
Getting There
Collooney’s position at the junction of the N4 and N17 makes it easily reachable by car from Dublin (≈3 h) or Galway (≈2 h). Regular Irish Rail services stop at the operational Collooney station on the Dublin‑Sligo line, providing a scenic rail option for those preferring public transport. Local bus services also connect the town to Sligo, Ballina and surrounding villages.
Parking
A small car park is situated adjacent to the Teeling Monument and the town centre. Visitors should check for any time‑limited restrictions or fees on arrival.
Walking & Outdoor Activities
Union Wood and Ox Mountains
Just north of the town, Union Wood offers a network of well‑marked trails that wind through mixed‑species woodland, open heath and gentle streams. From several viewpoints you can admire the rugged silhouette of the Ox Mountains, a favourite backdrop for photographers and hikers alike. The old railway corridor to the west has been identified as a potential greenway, suitable for walking or cycling.
Coolaney Loop (nearby)
For mountain‑bike enthusiasts, the Coolaney Loop in the Ox Mountains provides a mix of forest tracks and open ridges. The route is sign‑posted from the R284 and can be accessed from Collooney via a short drive.
Fishing on the Ballysadare River
The Ballysadare River, formed where the Owenmore and Unshin rivers meet near Collooney, is renowned for salmon and trout. Anglers can cast from the riverbank or join a guided drift‑fishing trip, with the nearby Shramore Lodge providing easy access to prime spots. A valid Inland Fisheries Ireland licence is required for angling.
Accommodation
Shramore Lodge – a self‑catering lodge set along the Ballysadare River, offering private parking, Wi‑Fi and a cosy wood‑burning stove. The lodge’s own website provides booking details and a photo gallery of the property.
Other options in the vicinity include B&Bs in nearby Cloonacool and guesthouses in Ballysadare.
Nearby Castles and Heritage Sites
While Collooney itself is modest, several historic attractions lie within a short drive:
- Markree Castle (≈5 min) – a 17th‑century mansion with beautiful gardens and a famed bird‑of‑prey centre.
- Ballymote Castle – a well‑preserved Norman tower house offering guided tours.
- Carrowkeel Passage Tomb – a prehistoric burial site that adds a deep‑time dimension to the area.
- Castle Dargan Golf Course – a scenic links course for golf enthusiasts.
Food & Drink
After a morning of exploring, stop at the Gourmet Parlour Coffee Shop on the town’s main street. The café serves hand‑crafted pastries, artisan breads and a rotating menu of hot lunches, all made from locally sourced ingredients. Ample parking makes it a convenient pit‑stop for a relaxed meal.
Practical Information
- Public transport: Irish Rail services (Dublin‑Sligo line) stop at Collooney station; local bus routes connect to Sligo and surrounding towns.
- Parking: Small car park near the Teeling Monument (verify any fees).
- Entry fees: No charge for public monuments or walking trails; nearby attractions such as Markree Castle may charge admission.
- Fishing licence: Required for angling on the Ballysadare River; obtain from Inland Fisheries Ireland.
- Accommodation: Shramore Lodge (self‑catering) and several B&Bs in the surrounding villages.
Overall, Collooney blends quiet rural charm with layers of history, making it an ideal stop for travellers seeking authentic Irish experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.