County Leitrim

County Leitrim is a county in northwestern Ireland within the province of Connacht, extending between Donegal Bay and the midlands region. Rivers, lakes, and moorland characterize the terrain, which rises to upland plateaus in some areas.

The area belonged to the Kingdom of Breifne until the 13th century, before Norman forces attempted to conquer it. The invasion was repelled at the Battle of Áth an Chip, preserving local rule.

The name derives from the Irish Liatroim, meaning grey ridge, referring to the geological formations visible across the terrain. Local artists and craftspeople work in workshops and galleries distributed throughout the area.

Carrick-on-Shannon, the county town, offers starting points for river trips and serves as the main administrative hub. Most accommodation and services are located in this town and a few smaller settlements along the main roads.

The county remained without traffic lights until 2003, making it the last in Ireland to receive this urban installation. This late introduction reflects the rural character and low traffic density in the region.

Location: Connacht

Location: Border Region

Capital city: Carrick-on-Shannon

Shares border with: County Sligo, County Cavan, County Fermanagh, County Donegal, County Roscommon, County Longford, Northern Ireland

Website: http://leitrimcoco.ie

GPS coordinates: 54.11667,-8.00000

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:41