Shannon Blueway | Leitrim

Overview

The Shannon Blueway operates as Ireland’s first integrated on-water and land-based trail network. Covering 146.5 km across the rolling valleys of County Leitrim, the route links 100 km of paddling trails, 30 km of walking loops and 23.5 km of cycling paths. The trail follows the Shannon River and its tributaries, passing through quiet countryside, forested lakes and historic market towns. It is designed for flexible travel: tackle a single section over a few hours or combine routes for a multi-day holiday.

The network centres on Carrick-on-Shannon, which serves as the main hub for equipment hire, accommodation and riverside dining. From here, the trail branches north toward Lough Drumharlow, west along the River Boyle, and south through the Shannon-Erne Waterway corridor. The gentle gradients and well-maintained towpaths make it suitable for first-time paddlers, casual cyclists and walkers looking for low-impact routes.

Paddling the Blueway

The 100 km of water-based routes form the core of the Blueway experience. Currents remain calm throughout most of the network, with marked launch points and clear signage along the banks.

Carrick-on-Shannon to Lough Drumharlow – Depart from the marina and follow the Upper Shannon northwards. The stretch is sheltered, ideal for beginners, and offers several quiet bays for anchoring and picnics.
River Boyle & Castle Island – Head west onto the River Boyle and into Lough Key. A short paddle reaches Castle Island, where an 800-year-old fortification sits above the water. The area is frequently visited by herons, kingfishers and otters.
Acres Lake to Drumshanbo – The southern leg follows the main navigation channel to Acres Lake. The route connects directly to the floating boardwalk and the heated outdoor pool, making it a popular stop for day-trippers.

Guided tours are run by local operators during peak season, but self-guided paddles work well year-round. Waterways Ireland maintains the channels, and rental providers supply life jackets and basic safety briefings.

Walking & Hiking Routes

The 30 km of walking paths run parallel to the water or cut through adjacent woodlands. Most routes are flat and suitable for all ages, with clear waymarking and frequent rest stops.

Battlebridge to Drumleague – A 10 km section that traces the river’s natural banks. The path passes historic stone bridges and opens up to wide views of the floodplain.
Acres Lake Boardwalk – Ireland’s only floating boardwalk stretches 600 m across the lake. The structure is fully accessible and provides close-up views of reed beds and waterfowl. Details and access information are available on the Acres Lake – Boardwalk and Visitor Centre page.
National Looped Walks – A series of 20 km circuits that connect multiple trailheads. The standard four-hour loop covers the most scenic sections between Carrick-on-Shannon and Leitrim Village.

Cycling the Trail

The 23.5 km of cycling paths use a mix of converted towpaths, quiet country lanes and dedicated greenways. The flat terrain makes electric bikes a practical choice for covering longer distances without strain.

Electric Bike Trails – Based in Leitrim Village, this operator supplies Kalkhoff e-bikes for an 18 km round-trip to Drumshanbo. The route follows quiet roads and riverside tracks. Bookings and details: 4 Canal Side, Main St, Leitrim Village, Co. Leitrim, N41 T6V6 | books@thereadingroom.ie | +353 71 962 3609.
Self-guided 10 km cycle – A straightforward ride from Leitrim Village to Kilclare. The path is fully paved, traffic-free for most of the distance and passes several traditional pubs.

Heritage & Local Culture

The Blueway runs through an area with deep historical roots, from medieval monastic sites to 19th-century industrial heritage.

Boyle Abbey – A 12th-century Cistercian ruin located a short drive from the main trail. The stone arches and cloister remain intact, offering a quiet stop for history visitors.
Arigna Mining Experience – Guided underground tours led by former miners explain the region’s coal-mining history. The site includes a museum and heritage centre.
Costello Chapel – Located in the centre of Carrick-on-Shannon, this compact church is noted for its architectural proportions and local history.
O’Rourke’s Castle – Ruins of a Gaelic stronghold situated near Leitrim Village, providing context for the area’s medieval past.
The Dock – A visual arts hub and independent gift store located steps from the Carrick-on-Shannon marina.

Food & Drink Stops

The trail is lined with independent cafes, riverside pubs and craft food producers. Most venues welcome cyclists and paddlers, and several offer dedicated picnic areas.

The Oarsman (Carrick-on-Shannon) – Riverside dining focusing on locally caught trout and seasonal Irish ingredients.
Jinny’s Bakery & Tea Rooms (Drumshanbo) – Known for the “Blueway Brunch” and packed picnic boxes for day trips.
Waves Restaurant & Bar (Leitrim Village) – Located in the Leitrim Marina Hotel, with large windows overlooking the river navigation channel.
The Shed Distillery (Drumshanbo) – Offers tours and tastings of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin and other regional spirits.
Olive Tree Café (Carrick-on-Shannon) – A convenient stop in the Market Yard Centre for coffee, pastries and light lunches.

Family-Friendly Features

The Blueway is designed with multi-generational groups in mind. Key facilities include:

Acres Lake Heated Outdoor Pool – A 25 m heated pool with changing rooms and parking, open during summer months.
Floating Boardwalk – Fully accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, with clear sightlines for wildlife spotting.
Playgrounds – Located at the Acres Lake amenity area and within Lough Key Forest Park, both within walking distance of trailheads.

Practical Information & Planning

Access & Parking – Free car parking is available at major trailheads, including the Carrick-on-Shannon launch site, Leitrim Village cycle hub and Acres Lake car park.
Equipment Hire – Kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards and e-bikes are available from registered operators. Advance booking is recommended between May and September.
Safety – Waterways Ireland maintains the navigation channels. Rental providers supply life jackets and basic safety instructions. The shallow, slow-moving water makes the route suitable for beginners, but weather checks and tide tables should be reviewed before departure.
Accommodation – Options range from the Bush Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon to family-run B&Bs in Drumshanbo and Leitrim Village. Several properties offer combined packages with bike or paddlecraft hire.
Maps & Navigation – Detailed route maps and PDF downloads are available through Waterways Ireland. The guides mark all put-in/take-out points, parking locations, refreshment stops and emergency contact numbers.

For current opening times, seasonal event calendars and equipment availability, check the official Shannon Blueway page on Waterways Ireland.