Activity

Atlantic Sheepdogs

Duration 1.5 hours
Difficulty Easy

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Benbulben near Grange in County Sligo, Atlantic Sheepdogs offers an authentic glimpse into everyday farming life along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. On this family-run working farm, generations of tradition come together with breathtaking scenery, good humour and some exceptionally talented Border Collies.

During the demonstration, expert sheepdog handler Martin Feeney introduces you to his dogs and explains the vital role they play on an Irish sheep farm. Using only voice commands and a series of distinctive whistles, Martin directs the dogs as they gather, turn and guide the flock across the fields with astonishing speed and precision.

The experience is both entertaining and educational, with plenty of stories about farming, the local landscape and the special relationship between a shepherd and his dogs. Whether you grew up around livestock or have never set foot on a working farm, watching these intelligent animals in action is genuinely captivating.

Why we love it

Martin’s humour and passion bring the entire experience to life, while the skill and intelligence of his dogs are remarkable to watch. It’s authentic, personal and wonderfully Irish—a chance to meet a local farming family and see a centuries-old tradition still playing an essential role today.