Overview
The Westmeath Way is a National Waymarked Trail that spans roughly 28 km across the flat, fertile landscape of County Westmeath. Designed for a relaxed pace, the route is most comfortably completed over two days, though experienced walkers can tackle it in a single long outing. The trail begins in the historic market town of Kilbeggan and finishes in Mullingar, weaving through quiet riverside paths, open lakeshores and the traffic-free towpath of the Royal Canal.
Managed jointly by local authorities and volunteer trail groups, the Westmeath Way is marked with a distinctive yellow arrow on a black background. It caters to walkers who prefer gentle gradients, open skies and a steady rhythm rather than steep climbs or rugged terrain. While the route does cross a number of local roads, careful waymarking and clear signage help keep the walk straightforward and safe.
The Route: From Whiskey Town to County Capital
Kilbeggan to Ballinagore The walk begins in Kilbeggan, a town best known for its long-standing whiskey production and racing heritage. From the starting information board, the trail follows the River Brosna, which provides a peaceful corridor of riparian woodland and open fields. The path is largely flat, with occasional sections that run alongside quiet local roads.
Ballinagore to Lilliput (Lough Ennell) As the route approaches the southern edge of Lough Ennell, the landscape opens up to sweeping lake views. This stretch leads directly to the townland of Lilliput, where the watershore offers a welcome pause. The lakeside path is well-trodden and popular with locals for short walks and birdwatching.
Lilliput to Bellmount Bridge Leaving the lake behind, the trail transitions onto the Royal Canal towpath. This section is consistently flat and entirely free of motorised traffic, making it one of the most relaxed parts of the walk. The canal banks are lined with mature trees and occasional moorings, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s historic waterway network.
Bellmount Bridge to Mullingar The final leg follows a mix of disused rail corridors, field edges and short road sections before dipping into the outskirts of Mullingar. The approach to the town centre is straightforward, with clear waymarks guiding you past residential streets and green spaces until you reach the trail’s official terminus.
History & Literary Connections
The trail’s most famous literary tie comes from the Lilliput stop. Local tradition holds that Jonathan Swift stayed with friends on the shores of Lough Ennell in the early 18th century. He reportedly borrowed the townland’s name for the miniature island nation in Gulliver’s Travels, cementing a playful connection that still draws visitors today.
The Royal Canal section carries its own historical weight. Opened in the early 1800s to link Dublin with the Shannon navigation system, the canal once bustled with cargo barges and tow-horses. Though commercial traffic faded with the rise of railways, the towpath survived and has since been adapted for recreation. The Westmeath Way was formally waymarked in the early 2000s as part of a broader push to promote accessible walking routes across the midlands, and subsequent upgrades have focused on improving signage, repairing path surfaces and reducing unnecessary road walking.
Practical Information & Planning
Waymarking & Navigation Look for the yellow arrow on a black background at junctions and bends. In denser hedgerow or overgrown sections, markers can occasionally be obscured. Carrying a printed map or offline navigation app is strongly recommended, especially if you are walking in poor weather or unfamiliar with the area. Official trail maps are available through Sport Ireland.
Dog Policy Dogs are permitted on the canal towpath and most riverside sections, but must be kept under close control. They are not allowed on sections crossing active farmland to protect livestock and other walkers. Leashes are advisable throughout.
Accessibility The trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Uneven ground, gravel surfaces, field paths and occasional road crossings create barriers that make the route challenging for anyone requiring a fully accessible path.
Maintenance & Trail Status Trail conditions can vary seasonally, and sections are occasionally closed for essential maintenance or safety upgrades. Always check the official Sport Ireland trail page or contact the Westmeath Way Committee before setting out, particularly if you are planning a multi-day trip.
Getting There & Transport
Start: Kilbeggan The trail begins near the Kilbeggan town centre. Free parking is available in municipal bays and at the distillery car park. Kilbeggan is easily reached by car via the N52, and local bus services connect it to Mullingar and Athlone.
Finish: Mullingar The route ends in the heart of Mullingar. The town is well-served by Iarnród Éireann, with direct trains from Dublin Connolly (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes) and Galway. From the station, it is a short walk or local bus ride to the trail’s terminus. Several municipal car parks are located within a few minutes’ walk of the finish point.
Suggested Itineraries
- Two-day walk – Day 1: Kilbeggan to Lilliput (roughly 18 km). Overnight in Lilliput or nearby Dysart. Day 2: Lilliput to Mullingar (roughly 14 km). Finish with a stroll through town or a visit to nearby heritage sites.
- One-day challenge – Start early, carry sufficient water and snacks, and be prepared for mixed surfaces. The flat terrain makes the distance manageable, but road sections require attention.
Seasonal Tips & Trail Conditions
- Winter – Riverbanks and towpaths can become wet and slippery. Waterproof footwear and layered clothing are essential. Daylight hours are shorter, so plan to finish before dusk.
- Spring & Summer – Ideal for full-day walks. The lakeshore and canal towpath are popular for picnics, and longer daylight hours make navigation easier. Bring insect repellent in warmer months, as standing water attracts midges.
- Autumn – The surrounding woodlands and hedgerows display strong colour, and the lake views are often framed by misty mornings. Fallen leaves can sometimes hide waymarks, so keep an eye on your route.
Nearby Attractions
- Kilbeggan Distillery – Ireland’s oldest working whiskey distillery, offering guided tours and a tasting room.
- Belvedere House Estate and Jealous Wall – Six kilometres of landscaped woodland walks and historic structures just outside Mullingar.
- Dysart – A quiet village on the edge of Lough Ennell, ideal for a coffee break or lakeside refreshment.
- Fore – A short drive north, featuring the ruins of Fore Abbey and scenic looped walks through ancient woodlands.
- Athlone Castle – Approximately 15 km west, offering medieval architecture and riverside views on the Shannon.
- Cathedral of Christ the King – A striking modern cathedral in Mullingar, worth a visit after completing the trail.
Finish your walk with a proper cup of tea in Mullingar’s town centre, and check the official trail status page a few days before you leave to ensure all sections are open.