Overview
Kilmacthomas (Irish: Cill Mhic Thómais) sits on the banks of the River Mahon, roughly midway between Waterford City and Dungarvan. Locally known as “Kilmac”, the village has a population of just under 1,800 and serves as a natural hub for cyclists, walkers and anglers using the 46-km car-free trail that follows the old railway corridor. Its appeal comes from a straightforward mix of industrial heritage, active outdoor pursuits and a strong community rhythm. The preserved stone viaduct, the adaptive reuse of the historic workhouse, and easy access to the Comeragh Mountains and Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark give visitors several reasons to stop and explore.
History
Kilmacthomas has hosted notable figures and survived dramatic weather events over the centuries. In December 1649, Oliver Cromwell’s army was forced to camp in the field that is now the village public park after the River Mahon flooded, an incident he recorded in his diary. Decades later, Daniel O’Connell visited in 1826 during a campaign trail, noting the warm local reception he received at a village inn. The early 1870s brought the Waterford-to-Mallow railway, which spurred industrial growth. The stone viaduct crossing the Mahon River remains as a lasting marker of that period. Passenger services ended in the late 1960s, but the railway corridor found new life in 2017 when it reopened as a dedicated walking and cycling route.
What to See & Do
Waterford Greenway & Kilmacthomas Viaduct
The trail follows the old railway line on a smooth, traffic-free path. At Kilmacthomas, the 19th-century stone viaduct crosses the Mahon River, providing clear sightlines toward the Comeragh foothills and the river valley below. The route operates around the clock and costs nothing to access. It is well-suited to casual walkers, road cyclists and wheelchair users. For those without their own equipment, bike hire is available from the village business centre.
Mahon Falls
A short drive south of the village, Mahon Falls plunges 80 metres into a steep U-shaped valley. A clearly marked 20-minute walk from the car park leads to the base of the cascade. The spray and echo of the water make it a popular stop for photographers, picnickers and families. The surrounding woodlands offer additional short loops for those looking to extend their walk.
Kilmacthomas Workhouse & Business Centre
Built during the Great Famine, the former workhouse has been carefully converted into the Kilmacthomas Business Centre. The building now hosts Coach House Coffee, a bike hire desk and Mayfield Birds of Prey. The renovation preserves the original stone architecture while supporting local enterprise, offering visitors a tangible connection to the village’s past and present.
River Mahon Fishing
The River Mahon supports healthy populations of wild brown trout and sea trout, with salmon running from June through autumn. Anglers can fish directly from the riverbanks within the village or head to Ballyshunnock Reservoir for coarse fishing. Licences and local regulations apply, so check current requirements before heading out.
Farmers Market
Every Thursday between 9.30 am and 2 pm, the village square hosts a weekly market. Local producers sell seasonal vegetables, organic meats, artisan cheeses, fresh bread and homemade preserves. It is a reliable place to pick up picnic supplies or sample regional produce without venturing far from the trail.
Surrounding Landscape & Geology
Just five miles south, the Copper Coast stretches for 25 km of rugged coastline, sea cliffs and sheltered coves. Bunmahon offers a sandy beach with consistent surf, while the Geopark Centre details 460 million years of geological history. To the west, the Comeragh foothills provide terrain for hill walking and mountain biking. Along the trail itself, the Cloughlowrish Stone – an Ice Age glacial erratic – stands as a quiet reminder of the region’s ancient landscape.
Dining & Refreshments
- Coach House Coffee – Located inside the former workhouse, this café serves specialty coffee, teas and light meals in a restored historic setting.
- Village Burger Joint – A straightforward spot for burgers, fries and local craft beers, positioned for a quick stop after cycling or walking.
- Flahavan’s Oat-Mill Café – Situated next to the working oat-mill (operational since c. 1785), the café offers soups, sandwiches and the brand’s signature oat biscuits.
Practical Information
Getting Here
Kilmacthomas sits on the R677, which branches off the N25 national primary road. Bus Éireann routes link the village with Waterford City and Dungarvan, making it accessible without a car. Cyclists can access the trail from either end of the 46-km route, with clear signage guiding traffic-free access into the village.
Parking & Bike Hire
Free parking is available at the former workhouse, the oat-mill and the dedicated trail car park. Waterford Greenway Bike Hire operates from the business centre and offers road bikes, hybrid cycles and child seats. Booking in advance is recommended during peak summer months.
Guided Experiences
Local operators run heritage walks covering the workhouse and viaduct, guided cycle tours along the route, and mountain hikes toward Mahon Falls and the Comeragh ridges. Current schedules and booking details are available through the village website or local tourism offices.
Accessibility
The trail surface is level and fully wheelchair-accessible, with smooth crossings at the viaduct and most bridges. The workhouse café and bike hire centre feature step-free entrances. The walk to Mahon Falls involves uneven terrain and steep sections, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Seasonal Notes
Mahon Falls reaches its fullest flow after periods of heavy rain, which also increases the risk of slippery paths. Autumn brings the salmon run to the River Mahon, shifting the fishing focus from trout to larger migratory species. The Thursday market operates year-round, though stall numbers may vary during winter months.
Kilmacthomas works best as a base for a half-day or full-day itinerary: start with coffee at the workhouse, cycle or walk to the viaduct, pick up supplies at the Thursday market, and finish with a drive to Mahon Falls or the Copper Coast. Check tide times before heading to Bunmahon Beach, and book bike hire early if you plan to cover the full 46 km in one go.