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Looking for bike hire on the Mullingar - Athlone Greenway? Find local shops offering bicycle rentals, electric bikes, and repair services to get you on the trail with GreenwayHub. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Bike Hire and Repair Mulllingar - Athlone OE Bike in Mullingar Provides bike maintenance and bike hire Kenny Bikes in Mullingar Provides bike maintenance in Mullingar Mullingar Bike Hire Bike Hire on the Royal Canal in Mullingar town Buckleys of Athlone Buckleys Hire and Repair shop in Athlone town Info Mullingar Athlone Maps Mullingar Athlone Travel Mullingar Athlone Links Mullingar Athlone Cafes Mullingar Athlone Hire Mullingar Athlone Gallery Mullingar Athlone History Mullingar Athlone

Find all the essential links for your Midleton - Youghal Greenway trip. Including official tourism sites, get the resources you need at GreenwayHub. Info Midleton - Youghal Map Midleton - Youghal Travel Midleton - Youghal Links Midleton - Youghal Cafes Midleton - Youghal Hire Midleton - Youghal Gallery Midleton - Youghal History Midleton - Youghal Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Midleton - Youghal Links Tourism Ireland Discover Ireland - Midleton Cork Bike Hire Discover Ireland - Youghal Living Youghal

Explore the fascinating history of the Barrow Way Greenway. From its origins as a canal used for transport to the local heritage and folklore of the surrounding area. Info Barrow Way Map Barrow Way Travel Barrow Way Links Barrow Way Cafes Barrow Way Hire Barrow Way Gallery Barrow Way History Barrow Way Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes History Barrow Way The Barrow Way is a scenic long-distance walking and cycling route in Ireland, tracing the course of the River Barrow, the second-longest river in the country. Stretching approximately 120 kilometers from Lowtown in County Kildare to St. Mullins in County Carlow, the route passes through some of Ireland’s most picturesque and historically rich landscapes. Only the section from Robertstown - Laytown - Athy is designated as a greenway and suitable for cyclists. While today the Barrow Way is appreciated for its tranquil beauty and leisurely pace, its origins lie in a deeply practical and industrial past, rooted in centuries of Irish history. The River Barrow has been central to life in the region since ancient times. Its fertile banks supported early settlements, and it served as a natural transportation route even in prehistoric and early Christian Ireland. Monasteries and religious centres, such as the 7th-century monastic site at St. Mullins, were established along its banks, using the river as both a source of sustenance and a means of communication and trade. The modern history of the Barrow Way is closely tied to the development of the Barrow Navigation. In the 18th and 19th centuries, during the height of the Industrial Revolution, Ireland—like much of Europe—sought to improve its inland waterways to facilitate trade. The Barrow was developed into a commercial navigation using canals to link the Grand Canal in Kildare with the River Suir and the port of Waterford. This involved constructing a series of locks, weirs, and towpaths to make the river navigable by barges. The towpaths, originally used by horses that towed cargo-laden boats upstream, form the backbone of what is now the Barrow Way walking and cycling trail. The Barrow Navigation officially opened in 1791 and played a crucial role in transporting goods such as malt, flour, timber, and coal. Towns like Athy, Carlow, Leighlinbridge, Bagenalstown, and Graiguenamanagh flourished during this period as trade hubs. By the early 20th century, the rise of railways and later motor transport led to a decline in the use of Ireland’s inland waterways for commercial shipping. The Barrow Navigation, once bustling with barge traffic, saw a dramatic reduction in usage. The last commercial barge passed through in the mid-20th century, marking the end of an era. However, the infrastructure remained largely intact, and with increasing interest in heritage and leisure walking in the late 20th century, attention turned to repurposing the towpath network. In the 1980s and 1990s, the Barrow Way was officially developed as a National Waymarked Trail under the guidance of Irish tourism and walking organizations. The trail preserved the historical towpaths while promoting eco-tourism and cultural heritage. Unlike other more rugged hiking routes, the Barrow Way offers a flat, accessible walk, ideal for a wide range of visitors. Along the trail, walkers encounter historical structures such as old lock-keeper’s cottages, stone bridges, aqueducts, and remnants of water mills. The presence of these features offers a tangible connection to the river’s commercial past. The path also passes near castles, ancient monasteries, and Georgian-era estates, blending industrial and ecclesiastical history with natural beauty. The river and its banks are also recognized as important habitats for Irish flora and fauna, including otters, herons, and kingfishers. Efforts to balance tourism, conservation, and heritage preservation have occasionally led to debate—such as the proposed development of a hard-surfaced cycle path past Athy, along the Barrow Line, which met opposition from conservation groups seeking to protect the soft, natural character of the route. An image of the depictions on a wall at the end of the Grand Canal in Athy telling the history of Athy, provided by Kildare County Council. Click on the image to read the text. Athy Nestled along the banks of the River Barrow, Athy has long been a strategic point for transportation, trade, and settlement. Its history spans several millennia, from early prehistoric times to its modern-day role as a bustling market town. The town's development is closely intertwined with Ireland's broader social, political, and economic changes over the centuries. Athy's history can be traced back to ancient Ireland, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating from the Bronze Age (around 2000-500 BCE). Archaeological finds, such as ringforts, burial mounds, and ancient tools, suggest that the region was inhabited long before recorded history. The strategic location of Athy, situated near the River Barrow, would have made it an attractive settlement for early communities, offering access to water for both agriculture and trade. Athy’s recorded history begins with the arrival of the Normans in the 12th century. The Normans, having conquered much of Ireland, established a strong presence in County Kildare. In the 13th century, the town became a part of the feudal system under the control of the de Londres family, who built a castle near the River Barrow. This castle, a significant Norman stronghold, symbolized both the power and strategic importance of Athy during this period. During the Middle Ages, Athy was granted a charter and began to grow as a market town. The town’s location at the junction of important trade routes, combined with its proximity to the river, fostered economic activity. It became an important centre for agriculture, particularly for the grain and livestock trade, which was facilitated by the town's well-established market. The 18th and 19th centuries marked a period of significant economic and infrastructural development in Athy. The River Barrow, which had long been a source of transport, underwent major improvements in the form of the Barrow Navigation. The Barrow Navigation, completed in the early 19th century, was a system of canals and locks designed to make the river navigable for larger boats. The establishment of the canal network in Athy connected the town to the Grand Canal in Dublin and the port of Waterford, making it an important commercial hub. The Barrow Navigation allowed Athy to flourish as a center of trade and industry. Barges transporting goods such as coal, timber, flour, and grain passed through the town, and it became a thriving market town known for its vibrant trade in agricultural products. This period also saw the rise of local industries, including milling, brewing, and distilling, as the town capitalized on the waterway for industrial purposes. Athy played a role in the political turbulence of 19th and early 20th century Ireland. The town was affected by the social and economic conditions that led to the Irish Rebellion of 1798, a part of the larger struggle for Irish independence from British rule. While the town itself did not see major battles, the surrounding areas were sites of conflict, and many of Athy’s residents were involved in the uprisings. The early 20th century brought further unrest to Athy and Ireland as a whole. During the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921), the town witnessed the challenges of the Irish revolutionary movement, including tensions between Irish Republican forces and British soldiers. The town became a focal point for republican activities, particularly in the 1916 Easter Rising and the War of Independence. The town is now a popular destination for commuters who work in the capital but prefer the quieter, more scenic environment of rural County Kildare. Athy remains steeped in history, with landmarks such as the Athy Heritage Centre and Museum, which houses exhibits dedicated to the town’s rich past, including its role in the Irish War of Independence, the era of the Barrow Navigation, and its ties to notable figures like Charles Stewart Parnell, a key leader in the Irish political landscape.

Find all the essential links for your Mullingar - Athlone Greenway trip. Including official tourism sites, get the resources you need at GreenwayHub. Info Mullingar Athlone Maps Mullingar Athlone Travel Mullingar Athlone Links Mullingar Athlone Cafes Mullingar Athlone Hire Mullingar Athlone Gallery Mullingar Athlone History Mullingar Athlone Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Mullingar - Athlone Links Discover Ireland Westmeath Co. Council Athlone.ie Westmeath.ie

Plan your perfect trip to the Suir Blueway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Bike Hire Gallery Historical Suir Blueway

The types of bikes recommended for cycling Ireland's Greenways: GreenwayHub Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Types of bikes All the greenways on this site are suitable for all types of bikes including standard road bike, kids bikes, mountain bikes etc. Bikes can be owed or hired. They can be manual or electric.

Plan your perfect trip to the Carlingford Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Hire/ Repair Gallery Historical Carlingford - Portadown

Plan your perfect trip to the Sallins Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Bike Hire Gallery Historical Sallins Greenway

Essential advice for cycling on Irish roads. Learn about road safety, local traffic rules, and practical tips for navigating rural routes and shared spaces safely. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Road Cycling This website focuses on cycling greenways, but that doesn't mean cycling on roads in Ireland is prohibited. Cyclists are only banned from motorways. Ireland boasts one of most extensive road networks in the EU, with about 20 kilometers road for every 1,000 residents, more than double the average. This high density of paved surfaces is due to a historically dispersed pattern settlement. Tourist and recreational cyclists typically prefer smaller roads. Regional or R roads connect minor areas and are usually two-lane, though they can often be narrow. Local Roads (L-roads) and tertiary roads are often characterised as rural lanes but are generally tarred and can be cycled. There are probably two main impediments or concerns for those cycling on R and L Roads. Traffic and dogs although the latter are much less of an issue nowadays. The vast majority of dogs nowadays are pets rather than working farm dogs which were common in the past. Dogs are very unlikely to bite but can chase bikes. Traffic is the main concern. While not meaning to frighten those wishing to cycle on smaller roads in Ireland it is worth taking a look at the data and to be forewarned is to be forearmed. The following data is from the RSA (Road Safety Authority) see report here . Recent Cyclist Fatalities (2024-2025): 2025 (Provisional): 14 cyclists were killed in 2025, which is the highest number of cyclist deaths since 2017. 2024: 11 cyclists were killed, a rise from previous years. 2020–2024 (5-year period): 45 cyclists were killed and 1,278 were seriously injured, averaging 9 deaths per year. Fatalities by Road Type (Minor vs. Major): While specific "minor road" statistics are often combined with rural or regional road data, the RSA reports indicate a significant disparity between urban and rural fatality locations: Rural Roads (Higher Speed): For fatalities, there is a higher risk on rural roads (80km/h or more). A 2018-2022 review indicated that almost two-thirds (66%) of cyclist fatalities occurred on these higher-speed, generally rural roads. Urban Roads (Lower Speed): Conversely, 80% of serious injuries to cyclists occurred on urban roads. 2024 Data: A 2024 review noted that 70% of all fatalities (not exclusively cyclists) occurred on rural roads. Key Risk Factors: Age and Gender: The most affected age group for cyclist fatalities is 56–65 years, with 87% of deaths being male. Time: A high proportion (53%) of fatalities occur between 8 am and 2 pm. Vehicle Collision: Most fatalities (64%) and serious injuries (70%) involve a collision with another vehicle. In summary, while many cyclists are injured on urban roads, a high proportion of those killed in Ireland are on higher-speed rural roads, often referred to as minor roads in terms of traffic volume but high-speed in classification. In summary cycling on minor rural roads in Ireland with speed limits of 60 Km/hr or less have a very low incidence of road injuries. The vast majority occur on either urban roads or roads with higher speed limits. Keep the following in mind. Children should cycle on greenways only. Cycle single file always No speeding, take your time No earbuds/ headphones; listen for the traffic Stay alert and concentrate on the road all the time Wear bright colours Farmers saving hay and grain in summer often rush on the road because of threatened bad weather. Tractors nowadays can travel much faster Locals will not expect cyclists on their patch of road Cycle in daylight hours only On bends when you cannot see the road ahead, hug the ditch on your side If cycling as a couple or group take turns to lead and keep your distance between colleagues. Follow these rules on minor roads and you are extremely unlikely to have an accident. In order to access greenways cyclists must generally traverse some urban streets. Remember that more accidents occur in urban areas than on minor roads.

The Lucan to Hazelhatch leg is being constructed. When this is complete it shoud in theory be possible to cycle out from Dublin but this needs to be confirmed. The Sallins to Edenderry leg is gone to tender but it is a big job as it involves building footbridges, ramps as well as the underfoot. Its likely to take a couple of years. The Sallins to Edenderry leg includes the Sallins to Robertstown leg, I'm not sure where the split will be. When these are completed it should be possible to go all the way from Sallins to Athy and separately on to the Offaly Greenway at EdenDerry. The leg from Edenderry to the Shannon is apparently already open. Note that the Grand Canal greenway will be from Sallins to Edenderry and the greenway from Athy to Sallins will be the Barrow Way. Cyclits should not continue on the Grand Canal after Sallins as it is not suitable for road bikes. One can go to Digby Bridge with a rocky surface but no further. You can cycle back by a Shared road to Naas, see below. To get from Sallins to Naas, head over the bridge over the canal towards the train station. There is a cycle lane at the road but the road can be busy. Go over the railway bridge and on to the traffic lights at the shopping centre. Go through the lights and take the first turn right. Note if you reach the road over the motorway youve gone too far. Cycle 500 metres, no cycle lane, until you reach Osberstown Bridge. Take a left turn all the way into Naas, this is a shared road. If you turn right at Osberstown Bridge continue about 200 metres and turn right again. Cycle under the railway and road bridges and on to Digby Bridge which is about 4 Kms. See photos from 29/8/2024

Plan your perfect trip to the Grand Canal Greenway. Access interactive maps, transport details, history, bike hire, and the best local cafe pitstops all in one place. Waterford Greenway Western Greenway Carlingford Portadown Royal Canal Greenway Grand Canal Greenway Mullingar - Athlone Barrow Way Greenway Sallins Greenway Boyne Valley Midleton - Youghal Suir Blueway Limerick Greenway Tralee Greenway Killarney Cycle Routes Info Map Travel Links Cafes Bike Hire Gallery Historical Grand Canal Greenway