Overview
County Monaghan’s borderlands are defined by two complementary waterways that blend industrial heritage with the county’s characteristic drumlin topography. The Ulster Canal now stretches from the River Blackwater at Charlemont to the Finn River near Wattlebridge, with a newly restored 1 km navigable section at Clones anchoring a modern marina, accessible greenway, and heritage visitor centre. Just to the east, the Dromore River traces the Cavan-Monaghan boundary, winding through shallow, reedy lakes and open farmland that create ideal conditions for leisurely paddling and coarse fishing. Together, these waterways offer a quiet counterpoint to busier tourist routes, catering to walkers, cyclists, anglers, and families looking for a relaxed day out.
History & Heritage
The Ulster Canal was conceived during the 19th-century canal boom, with construction beginning in 1825 and finishing in 1841. The 74 km route featured 26 narrow locks designed to link Lough Erne with Lough Neagh, shortening the journey between Dublin and Belfast. However, inadequate water supply, undersized locks, and the eventual rise of the railway led to commercial decline. The canal closed in 1931 and fell into disrepair. Renewed interest in waterway heritage prompted feasibility studies, and Waterways Ireland launched a phased restoration. Phase 1 (2020) reopened a 1 km stretch near Clones, while Phase 2 (June 2024) delivered a modern marina, looped walk, and amenity space. Phase 3 aims to connect the restored sections into a continuous route by 2029.
The Dromore River never saw commercial traffic, but it served as a quiet lifeline for local agricultural communities. Its course is marked by historic stone bridges, traditional fishing weirs, and the grand 18th-century estates of Bellamont and Dartrey. The river’s catchment supports a mix of open-water reed beds and riparian woodland, creating habitats that sustain bream, roach, tench, pike, and a steady population of waterfowl.
What to See & Do
Ulster Canal
- Paddling & Boating – The 1 km navigable stretch at Clones is calm and well-suited to kayaking, canoeing, and the emerging sport of hydrobiking. The marina provides slipways, fresh-water taps, and shower facilities for those bringing their own craft.
- Ulster Canal Stores Visitor Centre – Housed in a restored 1839 limestone storehouse, the centre is free to enter and features a dedicated Clones Lace Museum, a bistro, and a gift shop. The building is fully accessible across two floors, and guided heritage tours can be arranged in advance.
- Greenway Towpath – A 4.2 km level trail follows the original towpath, passing three stone bridges, a historic lock house, and two original locks. The surface is compacted and wheelchair-accessible, making it straightforward for families and casual walkers. Dogs are welcome on leads.
- Ulster Canal Trail – For cyclists covering longer distances, a 77 km linear route runs from Maghery in County Armagh to Clones. The trail links low-land lakes, quiet rivers, and historic villages. Route maps and PDFs are available through Monaghan Tourism.
- Marina & Amenity Area – The 40-berth Clones Marina anchors the restored section. Beyond mooring facilities, you’ll find a looped walk, picnic tables, a small performance space, and ample parking, serving as a practical gateway to the wider Shannon–Erne Waterway network.
Dromore River
- Guided Canoe Tours – A three-hour guided paddle departs from Erica’s Fairy Forest and finishes at Haltons Park in Cootehill. The route moves through drumlin fields, includes a riverside picnic stop, and enters Dromore Lough where the Bellamont and Dartrey estates frame the shoreline. Canoes are rafted together for stability, and a 12 V trolling motor is available for quieter propulsion.
- Fishing – The river’s chain of reeded lakes – Convent (Corries) Lake, Rectory Lake, Wilsons (Coolderry) Lake, and the White Lakes system – are productive for coarse fishing. Bank fishing is permitted near historic bridges including Balladian, Ballycoghill, and Ballynascarva. The lower reaches beneath the old railway bridge are particularly noted for pike and tench.
- Wildlife Observation – The mix of reed margins and mixed-wood riparian zones attracts herons, kingfishers, and various wading birds. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best conditions for spotting wildlife without disturbing nesting areas.
Practical Information
- Access & Parking – Clones Marina provides ample car parking and disabled-friendly facilities. The Visitor Centre has step-free entrances and accessible toilets. For Dromore River activities, parking is available at Erica’s Fairy Forest launch point and at Haltons Park in Cootehill.
- Public Transport – Clones is served by regular Bus Éireann routes from Monaghan and Dublin. The nearest train station is in Monaghan town, with onward bus connections to the canal area. Check current timetables before travelling.
- Booking – Guided canoe tours on the Dromore River should be booked in advance through Monaghan Tourism. Heritage tours at the Ulster Canal Stores Visitor Centre also require prior arrangement.
- Facilities – Showers, fresh water, and toilets are available at Clones Marina. The visitor centre’s bistro serves light meals, coffee, and snacks.
- Seasonality – Both waterways are open year-round. The most reliable paddling and walking conditions run from late spring through early autumn, when water levels are stable and daylight hours are longer.
- Safety – Life jackets are supplied with all Dromore River canoe rentals. The Ulster Canal’s navigable section is calm, but standard waterway safety practices should always be followed.
- Pet Policy – Dogs are welcome on the Ulster Canal towpath and at the marina, provided they remain on a lead.
Nearby Attractions
If you have time to extend your visit, these Monaghan sites complement a day on the waterways:
- Dartrey Estate – Forest, House, Church & Monuments – Woodlands, lakes, and historic monuments ideal for walking and wildlife spotting.
- Clones historic religious sites – 12th-century Cistercian abbey ruins offering insight into medieval monastic life.
- Castle Leslie Estate and St Salvator’s Church – A grand country house with extensive walking trails and a café, located a short drive north.
- Clones Town and Round Tower – Explore the town centre, local shops, and the historic round tower that gives the area its name.
- Clones Lace Museum – Discover the region’s celebrated lace-making heritage through hands-on demonstrations and historical collections.
Check tide and water level forecasts before heading out, and allow extra time if you plan to combine a canal walk with a stop at the visitor centre’s bistro.