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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 Limerick - Listowel Greenway Bike Hire Gallery Historical

Info Suir Blueway Map Suir Blueway Travel Suir Blueway Links Suir Blueway Cafes Suir Blueway Hire Suir Blueway Gallery Suir Blueway History Suir Blueway 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 Suir Blueway Officially opened in May 2019, the Blueway runs approximately 53 km from Cahir through Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir, offering walking, cycling, kayaking, canoeing and other outdoor activities along riverbank trails and waterways. In 1756, historical records show that a contract was signed to construct a towpath along the northern bank of the River Suir from Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir. This infrastructure, completed by 1789, transformed river transport—allowing horse-drawn barges to move goods more efficiently compared to manpower hauling prior to that time. This early towpath underpinned commercial activity between the towns. The modern Suir Blueway project emerged from over seven years of planning and consultation involving Tipperary County Council, local communities, state agencies, and funding partners. This collaborative effort sought to transform the natural and historical asset of the Suir Valley into a sustainable outdoor tourism and community resource. Funding for the initiative came from a combination of sources, including Tipperary County Council, Sport Ireland, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and EU initiatives like INTERREG. By 2019, the project had culminated in the creation of a 53 km Blueway comprising: A 21 km walking and cycling trail along refurbished historic towpaths between Carrick-on-Suir and Clonmel. A 32 km river route navigable by kayak or canoe between Clonmel and Cahir. Highlights include heritage attractions such as Cahir Castle and the Swiss Cottage near Cahir, picturesque towns like Ardfinnan and Newcastle, and scenic landscapes characteristic of the River Suir valley. A standout feature of the Suir Blueway is the whitewater Canoe Slalom Course in Clonmel, constructed before the Blueway’s formal opening and now used as a training base by Canoeing Ireland and the Irish national squad. The Suir Blueway Tipperary is among the first in the world to receive official Blueway accreditation, reflecting its high standards of visitor experience and infrastructure. Since its launch, the Suir Blueway has become a focal point for tourism and recreation in the region, attracting thousands of walkers, cyclists, paddlers, and nature enthusiasts each year. Usage data shows substantial engagement, with counts of quarter-of-a-million unique users within 12 months of opening. Clonmel The origins of Clonmel lie in the early medieval period. Its name comes from the Irish Cluain Meala, meaning “the honey meadow,” reflecting the fertility of the surrounding land. A monastic settlement is believed to have existed in the area from at least the 7th century, making Clonmel an early centre of religious and agricultural life. The town grew significantly during the Norman period after the late 12th century. Clonmel became an important walled town, with strong defences, markets, and trade connections. By the Middle Ages it was one of the principal towns in Munster, benefiting from river transport along the Suir. Remnants of the medieval walls and gates still mark the town today. One of the most notable events in Clonmel’s history occurred in 1650, when the town was besieged by Oliver Cromwell’s forces. Despite heavy bombardment, the town’s defenders mounted a successful resistance, forcing Cromwell to withdraw after suffering major losses. This event has become a defining moment in Clonmel’s historical identity. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Clonmel developed into a prosperous commercial and industrial centre. Brewing, milling, and agriculture flourished, and the town became a hub for trade and legal administration. It was also a centre of political activity, particularly during the nationalist movements of the 19th century. In the 20th century, Clonmel played a role in Ireland’s struggle for independence and later adapted to economic and social change. While traditional industries declined, the town remained an important regional centre for business, education, and culture. Carrick-on-Suir Carrick-on-Suir is a historic riverside town in south County Tipperary, located where the River Suir becomes tidal before flowing into Waterford Harbour. Its strategic position made it an important settlement for trade, defence, and political power from early medieval times onward. The name Carrick-on-Suir derives from the Irish Carraig na Siúire, meaning “the rock of the Suir.” A settlement is believed to have existed here from early Christian times, with evidence of monastic activity in the surrounding area. The river crossing point gave Carrick early importance as a place of movement and exchange between Munster and Leinster. Carrick-on-Suir rose to prominence following the Norman invasion of Ireland in the late 12th century. The town became a key stronghold of the powerful Butler family, who were Earls of Ormond. In the 14th century, Ormond Castle was constructed as the principal residence of the Butlers. Unlike most Irish castles, Ormond Castle later evolved into a Tudor manor house, reflecting English architectural influence and the family’s wealth and status. During the Middle Ages, Carrick-on-Suir developed into a thriving walled town and river port. The Suir allowed for the transport of goods such as wool, grain, and livestock, linking the town to Waterford and international trade routes. Its prosperity made it one of the most important towns in south Tipperary. Carrick-on-Suir also held strong religious importance. Several monasteries and churches were established in and around the town, including Franciscan foundations. During the Reformation and subsequent religious conflicts, the town experienced political tension and economic decline, particularly as the power of the Butler family waned. In the 17th century, Carrick-on-Suir was affected by Ireland’s turbulent wars, including the Confederate Wars and the Cromwellian conquest. While Ormond Castle survived relatively intact, the town’s population and economy suffered. Nevertheless, Carrick retained its role as a local commercial centre. The town is notably the birthplace of Edmund Butler, later known as Viscount Mountgarret, and it maintained close ties to national political events through the Butler dynasty. The 19th century marked a period of renewed industrial growth. Carrick-on-Suir became known for its woollen and textile industries, as well as milling and brewing. The arrival of the railway improved transport and trade. However, the Great Famine (1845–1852) had devastating effects on the population, leading to poverty and emigration. Carrick-on-Suir is also famous as the birthplace of Archbishop Thomas Croke, a key figure in Irish nationalism and the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). His legacy remains central to the town’s cultural identity. During the early 20th century, Carrick-on-Suir played a role in the struggle for Irish independence, with local involvement in the War of Independence and Civil War. Industrial decline later in the century led to economic challenges, particularly with the closure of traditional textile factories. In recent decades, Carrick-on-Suir has focused on heritage, tourism, and community development. Ormond Castle has been restored and opened to the public, and initiatives such as the Suir Blueway have re-emphasised the town’s historic relationship with the river. Carrick-on-Suir’s history is deeply shaped by its river setting, its medieval power as a Butler stronghold, and its later industrial heritage.

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

Info Grand Canal Maps Grand Canal Travel Grand Canal Links Grand Canal Cafes Grand Canal Hire Grand Canal Gallery Grand Canal History Grand Canal 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 Grand Canal Greenway Cafes Hot-Shot Coffee Daingean In the centre of the village is this friendly coffee shop. Sit outside and enjoy the tranquility of this small village. The Thatch Pub and Cafe Rahan The Thatch stands on its own at the side of the greenway at Rahan. But check for opening times as it may not open until evenings on weekdays Multiple great coffee shops in Tullamore Tullamore There is a very wide choice of places to eat and have a coffee in Tullamore. Also an excellent town to stay overnight Ballylycommon Bakehouse Ballycommon Between Daingean and Tullamore, 8Kms from Tullamore. Coffee, cakes, scones, as well as breakfast and lunch options. The Coffee Still Tullamore Right on the Grand Canal in the town is the Old Warehouse with external seating to enjoy a coffee or a full meal. Eden Deli Cafe Edenderry Situated just at the start of the greenway in Edenderry is the Eden Deli and Cafe.

Info Waterford Map Waterford Travel Waterford Links Waterford Cafes Waterford Bike Hire Waterford Gallery Waterford History Waterford 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 Cafes Waterford - Dungarvan Kilmeaden Suir Valley Railway Kilmeaden The Suir Valley railway has a coffee shop is 10 Kms from Waterford City. It has outdoor seating as well as some seats in a disused railway carriage. Click on image. Coach Coffee House Kilmacthomas The Coach House Restaurant and Coffee Shop is situated roughly half way on the greenway. Click on image. Taste Waterford Waterford City and County A selection of cafes in Waterford City and County The Stables Cafe Kilmeaden Enjoy breakfast or lunch at the wonderful Mount Congreve House and Gardens The Railway Cottage Scartore, Dungarvan The Railway Cottage cafe is about 4 Kms from Dungarvan town and would represent the final stop for those who have come from Waterford. Click on image. A list of cafes in Dungarvan Dungarvan Enjoy a break in Dungarvan

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 Cafes Tu Ard Moate Enjoy a meal or coffee at this lovely restaurant en route in the town of Moate. Enjoy a break in Athlone Athlone A great choice of food and drink in Athlone Jack's Stop Streamstown Beautiful cafe created from the renovated railway building on exactly half way between Mullingar and Athlone Dun na Si Moate Drop in to the Amenity and Heritage Park which is just outside Moate on the Athlone side and 0.5Km off the greenway Enjoy a break in Mullingar Mullingar A great choice of food and drink in Mullingar Moate Golf Club Moate Stop for lunch or a break at the Moate Golf Club which is right on the greenway.

Info Sallins Greenway Maps Sallins Greenway Travel Sallins Greenway Links Sallins Greenway Cafes Sallins Greenway Hire Sallins Greenway Gallery Sallins Greenway History Sallins Greenway 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 Sallins Greenway Cafes Grá Coffee and Gallery Naas There are a host of options in Naas town but try the Grá Gallery (Grá means Love in Irish) Grand Canal Greenway Hire Sallins Right at the start of the greenway at the side of the canal in Sallins is a cafe and bike hire/ repair shop. McEvoys Hazelhatch Just at the very end of the greenway at Hazelhatch is McEvoy's pub Cliff At Lyons Hazelhatch Within 2 Kms of the end of the greenway close to Hazelhatch end is this luxury countryside retreat.

Info Carlingford Maps Carlingford Travel Carlingford Links Carlingford Cafes Carlingford Hire Carlingford Gallery Carlingford History Carlingford 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 Carlingford - Portadown Cafes Ground Cafe Portadown Just under the Bann Bridge having arrived in Portadown is this fine cafe and cakes Cafe in the Retirement/ Holiday village of An Baile Beag. Omeath Indoor and outdoor seating in this cafe just off the greenway before entering the village of Omeath Ruby Ellen’s Tea Rooms Carlingford Enjoy home cooking including full breakfast, sandwiches and a wide range cakes with your coffee. Cafes in the Carlingford area Carlingford A wide choice of Cafes in the Carlingford area Hollie Berrie, right on the tow path Scarva Great cafe and incredible cakes as well as restaurant. Indoor and outdoor seating Cafes in Newry Newry Best coffee shops in Newry as reported by The Newry Reporter

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 Barrow Way Cafes Poppy May's Robertstown Have coffee and cakes outside Mullaneys shop on the main street in the village of Robertstown Dilly Dally Athy/ Vicarstown Between Athy and Vicarstown is this lovely cafe. Note opens at weekends only. Its right on the Barrow Way. Options in Monasterevin Monastrevin There are some cafes and takeaways in Monastrevin. Ma's Kitchen Rathangan On the main street in Rathangan is a friendly cafe for an enjoyable stopoff, Cuan Mhuire Athy On the way in to Athy on the opposite bank of the canal. Don't miss this cafe, restaurant, shop and garden centre. Feel the tranquility.

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 Greenway Info Map Travel Links Cafes Hire/ Repair Gallery Historical

Info Sallins Greenway Maps Sallins Greenway Travel Sallins Greenway Links Sallins Greenway Cafes Sallins Greenway Hire Sallins Greenway Gallery Sallins Greenway History Sallins Greenway 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 Sallins Greenway The Sallins Greenway runs along the Grand Canal from Hazelhatch to Sallins, a distance of 13Kms. From Sallins one can cycle to Naas town on a spur of the the Grand Canal. This is 4Kms in length. Additionally work is underway to extend the greenway by 5Kms from Hazelhatch back towards Dublin to Lock 12 of the Grand Canal at Lucan. Hazelhatch is a townsland close to Celbridge which is a large suburban area in Co. Kildare, west of Dublin. Take look at the Canals page here to see how the canals of Ireland evolved. The Grand Canal flows from Grand Canal Dock in Dublin city running west to Lock 12, close to Lucan, to Hazelhatch and on to Sallins. From there it runs to Robertstown and a little further on, to Lowtown where it splits between the Grand Canal greenway proper and the Barrow Way. The section from Robertstown to Lowtown and on to Athy is open for cyclists and is designated on this site as Barrow Way Greenway . The section from Lowtown to Edenderry is not yet open to cyclists. But the section from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour is open and is designated as the Grand Canal Greenway on this site. The Sallins greenway will ultimately become part of the Grand Canal/ Barrow Way as the cycle paths are developed to Robertstown and onwards to Edenderry. In addition the greenway will be extended north east towards Dublin. The work on the link to Lucan is already underway. The other greenway connections are in the planning or construction stage. It is currently possible to walk along the bank the Grand Canal from Sallins to Robertstown but currently the terrain is not suitable for road bikes as the under foot condition is too rough. Click here to open a map showing the sections of the Grand Canal that can be cycled. As can be seen on the Maps Sallins page here , Robertstown/ Lowtown is at the crossroads of the Grand Canal Greenway and the Barrow Way. The Grand Canal runs west to Shannon Harbour in Co. Offaly from Lowtown. It also runs south to Athy in Co. Kildare. In past times the canal allowed the transportation of goods and people connecting the midlands and the south of the country to Dublin's docks. The canal connected with the Barrow River at Athy and with the Shannon River at Shannon Harbour. This opened up a route that connected the port of Dublin with Limerick City in the west and with Waterford City in the south and greatly improved the economy of the countery in the late 18th and early 19th century. See here a map of the of the Sallins Greenway from Kildare Co. Co. See below a short video here of the section from Sallins to Hazelhatch. Cyclists can start their journey from either Hazelhatch-Celbridge rail station, Sallins village or Naas town. There is paid parking at Hazelhatch-Celbridge train station for those carrying their own bikes. Cyclists can also disembark at Celbridge if transporting their bikes by train. Access to the greenway is along a very narrow road for 1Km from Celbridge station to the start of the greenway. Take the first exit from the roundabout having left the station and cycle the 1Km to McEvoys pub. The greenway is then to your right. Be careful on the road as it is not suitable for children cycling. See the image here of cars parked at the start of the greenway at Hazelhatch at a weekend. Those starting from Sallins begin the greenway from an off ramp in the centre of the village. To cycle to Naas from Sallins it is necessary to navigate about 500m on the main road where there is vehicular traffic. The route is described in the Travel section here. The distance from Sallins to Hazelhatch is 13Kms. The distance from Sallins to Naas is 4Kms. Clearly one can start and finish their cycle from Naas bringing the round trip in total 34Kms. Bike hire is available at Sallins and there is also a rail station at Sallins. See the Travel section here for details of how to get to Hazelhatch/ Sallins/ Naas and also the Bike Hire section here for bike hire. The profile of the route is very flat. The path is constructed using very fine grit or tarmac on the sections close to Sallins and on the section to Naas. Ramp at Sallins on to the greenway