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Banagher
Banagher
is located at the foot of Banagher bridge and dates back to the 17th
century. The bridge itself is a famous attraction with its Napoleonic
fort built in the 1800's to protect the town against a French invasion
from the West of Ireland. The other ancient defences that can be
viewed include the only inland Martello Tower in Ireland, Fort
Falkland and Fort Eliza. There is a 17th century church within walking
distance. A map board is located at the entrance to the marina, which
will give more information. The length and breadth of the town could
easily be walked in 10 minutes. The town itself offers many facilities
from ATM machine, grocery shops, and computer facilities at the
library and a Tourist Information Centre at the Crank House. Nightly
entertainment is provided in the famous Hough's Pub. There is a Pitch
and Putt course that is located over the bridge, which has a fine
pathway around the course and is a scenic walk.
Birr (8 miles from Banagher) boasts a castle with picturesque
gardens, science museum and the famous Ross telescope. Birr is also
home to a fine links style golf course. A taxi can be arranged for you
by our receptionist.
Clonfert (6 miles from Banagher ) is home to a 12th century
Cathedral and traces of a 6th century monastic settlement founded by
St. Brendan can be found. A taxi can be arranged for you by our
receptionist.
North from Banagher
Shannonbridge.
Popular with tourists and locals. Has a famous bridge fortified during
the Napoleonic era. The Tourist Information Centre is located at the
harbour where you can enquire about the Bog Train, which will take you
on an extensive journey through the famous boglands of Ireland.
Evening entertainment is available at the famous Killeens Pub. There
is a fine restaurant in the old fort on the western bank and a good
eatery in the Bog Oak pub.
Ballinasloe. The River Suck is navigable to Ballinasloe, which
is a large town with all modern facilities, an ATM machine and
supermarkets. Tourist Information is available at the local travel
agent in the town during July/August. There are many pubs including
some with Irish Traditional Music and some good restaurants.
Other attractions include Aughrim Interpretive Centre, about 3 miles
from the town centre. Creagh Equestrian Centre offers horse riding
lessons for young and old. Most pubs offer in-house entertainment.
Clonmacnois. Ancient monastic ruins and heritage centre
overlooking the Shannon. There are guided tours including a video
show, and refreshments are available at the coffee shop. A tourist
office and gift shop is located in the car park. A stop off is a must.
Athlone. The largest of all the towns situated on this stretch
of the Shannon. All modern facilities are available including cinema,
bowling and leisure centre with children's play area. Athlone is a
great shopping area with many clothes shops, gift shops, bookshops etc
located in the centre and at the many shopping centres. Across the
bridge from the public harbour is Athlone Castle, which houses the
Tourist Information Centre where all up to date information on local
attractions and amenities, is available. A tour around the Castle is a
must. A map board is located outside the Castle grounds containing a
map of the town and places to visit. You are advised to moor in the
marina and not at the quay walls for security reasons.
South from Banagher
Meelick. The first stop to make south of Banagher is at Meelick
Quay. This remote location is steeped in history and Meelick Abbey is
10 minutes walk from the mooring. There is a pub called The Shop just
beside the Abbey which is open Thursday to Sunday. A short cruise
further south will bring you to Victoria Lock.
Portumna. Has on offer many facilities including two harbours,
located at the opposite ends of the town, an ATM machine, different
restaurants, a Pizza Parlour and a children's play area beside the
Shannon Oaks Hotel. Portumna's major attraction is Portumna Castle
with surrounding Forest and Priory. The Forest Park offers many
different nature walks. Traditional music can be found at An Caislean
Pub. For those who want to party all night, the Web Nightclub is open
until the small hours. The Tourist Information Centre is at the Boat
House gift shop in the town.
Terryglass. The marina alone is worth visiting with its picnic
area and breathtaking views of Lough Derg. The village is quite small
and is roughly 10 minutes walk from the moorings. Here you can stock
up on bread and milk, post any cards and sample some Guinness in the
local pubs which serve great food. The 13th century Oldcourt Castle is
located here.
Kilgarvan. A remote location with an Antique centre not too far
from the harbour which you will pass if you decide to venture along
the road on one of the many peaceful nature walks in this location.
There is also a fine restaurant located in a cottage nearby.
Dromineer. A small, pretty village that has a small shop, a pub
with good food and a hotel. The children will also enjoy the play area
located beside the harbour.
Garrykennedy. The views of Lough Derg are spectacular from this
location. There are two pubs to choose from. One serves very good
food.
Killaloe. A large town with all facilities, ATM machines,
supermarkets and beauty & hair salons. Visit Killaloe Tourist and
Heritage Centre located at the foot of the bridge. Horse riding is
available at Carrowbaun Farm. The Anchor bar is worth a visit
especially on Wednesday evenings when you can join in the Irish Set
Dancing which is suitable for both young and old. A map board is
located across from the Heritage Centre.
Scarriff. A small village where you can stock up on groceries.
There is an ATM machine in the town, a hotel, restaurants and pubs.
The walk to the village will take at least 10 minutes.
Mountshannon. This little town has many features from
pitch-n-putt to pony trekking. A traditional Irish dance session is
held each Wednesday with live entertainment at weekends at the local
Cois-na-Habhna Pub. A map board is located at the harbour with up to
date information on local attractions and amenities. The Tourist
Information Centre can be found at the local Post Office where you can
enquire about a trip to Holy Island unless you have an outboard motor
and can go on your own. This Island is associated with many early
Irish Saints, many myths and legends and is home to ancient holy
burial grounds and numerous churches dating back to the 9th century. |
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