Water Heritage Day: Discovering the Heritage of Streamstown

The Sligo Bay Catchment River Trust leads a guided walk around Streamstown, on the shore of Ballisodare Bay near Ballysadare, as part of the national Water Heritage Day programme on Sunday 23 August 2026. Heritage guides Martin Enright and Michael Bell take the group through the area’s natural, cultural and coastal history, from old salt pans to the community’s long working relationship with the bay. The walk ends on Streamstown Beach with refreshments and an informal discussion.

What to expect

Expect a two-hour guided walk covering the maritime and social history of Streamstown and Ballisodare Bay, including the site’s historic salt pans and coastal habitats. The guides draw on local knowledge to explain how the community has used and shaped this stretch of coast over generations. The walk finishes at Streamstown Beach, where organisers provide refreshments and time for questions. This is an outdoor event over uneven coastal paths, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, and children are welcome only with adult supervision. Registration is required in advance and the walk is free of charge.

Getting there

Streamstown is on the coast near Ballysadare, a short drive from Sligo town via the N59 or N4. Parking at the meeting point is limited, so organisers encourage car sharing where possible.

While you’re in Ballysadare

The walk sits right on the edge of Ballysadare, a village built around its own river and waterfall. There is more of the county’s coast and heritage to explore across Co. Sligo.

Good to know

• Date and time: Sunday 23 August 2026, 12pm to 2pm
• Meeting point: St Brigid’s Church, Corhownagh, near Ballysadare
• Price: free, registration required
• Wear: sturdy walking shoes and waterproof clothing
• Accessibility: coastal terrain, not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs