More visitors come to Leitrim town as it aims to repeat historic win
Since its landmark win last October, the Leitrim town has wasted no time building on its success, with a team of over 60 volunteers rolling out new clean-ups, planting and public space improvements designed to enhance both community life and the visitor experience.
Ireland’s Tidiest Town, Carrick-on-Shannon, is calling on visitors to experience its award-winning hospitality as the Leitrim town bids to retain the SuperValu TidyTowns national title it won last year.
Since its landmark win last October, the Leitrim town has wasted no time building on its success, with a team of over 60 volunteers rolling out new clean-ups, planting and public space improvements designed to enhance both community life and the visitor experience.
In recent weeks, activity has ramped up, with regular litter pick-ups and project work helping to maintain the high standards that have made Carrick-on-Shannon an increasingly popular destination for domestic and international visitors.
Carrick-on-Shannon has much to offer visitors, from rich heritage trails, award‑winning restaurants and a wide mix of accommodation options. The River Shannon is one of the town’s greatest assets, and it can be enjoyed by cruise, guided tour, or simply by taking in the views along the town’s waterfront.
Another key feature of the town’s appeal is its commitment to sustainability and locally-grown planting, with some 8,000 flowers to be cultivated for display across the town this year.
Chairperson of Carrick-on-Shannon Tidy Towns, John Gaffey, said the town’s success is rooted in community pride which has helped to attract more visitors.
He added: “The support from our local businesses over the years has been vital. Keeping businesses, shopfronts or signage clean and presentable is crucial and, to their credit, the majority of business owners are always doing their bit.
“Ahead of the judging panel’s visit, the town is focused on showcasing its pride and attention to detail, with businesses and residents enhancing their premises through fresh paint, clean pathways and seasonal flowers.
“The increased visibility has undoubtedly helped attract more visitors to the area, benefiting local businesses such as hospitality providers, tourism operators, food and drink businesses and retailers. People are proud that we’ve achieved this together.”
Leitrim County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Paddy Farrell said the work of the Carrick-on-Shannon Tidy Towns Committee continues to play a key role in promoting the region nationally.
He added: “The dedication and pride shown by the group has helped position the town, and County Leitrim, as a welcoming and vibrant place to visit.”
Sinéad McDermott, Tourism Officer of Leitrim County Council, said tourism stakeholders were ‘hearing wonderful stories of people returning with friends and family’ after they had recommended a visit to Carrick-on-Shannon.
She added: “There has clearly been an economic dividend from winning the overall Tidy Towns award and we are delighted to see how strongly visitors are responding. Tourists are quite literally voting with their feet, arriving in greater numbers, sharing glowing feedback, and telling us how impressed they are by the town’s appearance.
“Time and again, visitors tell us how pleasantly surprised they are when they arrive, commenting on how clean, well‑kept, and inviting the town feels. This recognition has not only lifted local pride but has also helped showcase Carrick-on-Shannon as a destination worth exploring."