Overview
Drumcliffe lies on the western fringe of County Sligo, a short eight‑kilometre drive north of Sligo town along the Wild Atlantic Way. The village is dominated by the flat‑topped silhouette of Benbulben, which frames a historic churchyard that houses the grave of Nobel‑prize poet William Butler Yeats. The site also preserves the remnants of a 6th‑century monastic settlement founded by St Columba (St Colmcille), including a sandstone high cross, the stump of a round tower and the modest Neo‑Gothic St Columba’s Church. Nearby, the Pink Clover Café and the artist‑run Téach Bán gallery add contemporary charm to the ancient landscape.
History / Background
The monastic community at Drumcliffe dates to around AD 574, when St Columba established a centre of learning on the ridge that gave the village its Irish name Droim Chliabh – “ridge of the baskets”. Over the following centuries the settlement grew, adding a stone high cross (c. 1000 AD) and a round tower (10th–11th century). The tower was struck by lightning in 1396 and was largely dismantled in the 19th century, leaving only a third of its height visible today.
In 1809 the Board of First Fruits erected the present St Columba’s Church in a Neo‑Gothic style, replacing earlier wooden structures. The churchyard continued to serve the local community while retaining its ancient monuments. After his death in 1939, W.B. Yeats was repatriated and, in September 1948, re‑interred here at his own request. His simple limestone slab bears the self‑written epitaph from Under Benbulben: “Cast a cold eye on life, on death. Horseman, pass by!”
What to See & Do
- W.B. Yeats’s Grave – A modest limestone headstone set in the centre of the churchyard, with an on‑site audio guide that explains the poet’s connection to Sligo.
- 10th‑Century High Cross – Carved from sandstone, the cross displays biblical scenes on both faces, including Daniel in the lions’ den, the Crucifixion and a curious Bactrian‑style camel that delights younger visitors.
- Round‑Tower Remains – Roughly one‑third of the original limestone tower survives, offering a tangible link to early Irish monastic architecture.
- St Columba’s Church – Inside, 19th‑century stained glass and fragments of earlier high‑cross shafts create a quiet, reflective space. A side ramp provides wheelchair access.
- Téach Bán Art Gallery – Open April‑September, the gallery showcases jewellery, prints, photography and hosts occasional live music and craft workshops.
- Pink Clover Café – Known for house‑made kefir and gluten‑free cakes, the café seats 40 indoors and 16 outdoors and includes a small gift shop featuring local crafts.
- Scenic Walks – The churchyard is an ideal launch point for the Benbulben Forest Walk Loop or a short drive to the nearby Glencar Waterfall, both offering spectacular views of the mountain.
Getting There & Parking
- Location: Off the N15, 8 km north of Sligo town, County Sligo.
- Access: The site is reachable by car, bus (Sligo‑to‑Drumcliffe services) and on foot from the nearby village centre.
- Parking: Free parking spaces are provided beside the churchyard. Visitors should check for any seasonal restrictions or paid zones during peak summer months.
- Wheelchair access: A side ramp leads to St Columba’s Church; the churchyard paths are level and suitable for mobility‑impaired guests.
Practical Information
- Opening: The churchyard and monastic ruins are open year‑round. The Pink Clover Café and Téach Bán gallery have seasonal opening hours (check locally).
- Facilities: Restrooms are located near the café; a small gift shop offers locally made souvenirs.
- Visitor tips: Arrive early in summer to avoid crowds and to catch the best light on Benbulben; bring a pair of comfortable shoes for the short walks around the site.