Novelist, broadcaster and travel writer Manchán Magan explores the Royal Canal towpath west from Mullingar along the Royal Canal’s towpath and on the canal itself through Abbeyshrule and Killashee, to where the canal joins the River Shannon. At summit level, Mullingar is the highest point of the Royal Canal – from there, 25 locks descend east to Dublin and 21 locks descend west to the Shannon. Manchán will walk and cycle to where the Royal Canal joins the River Shannon, exploring the history of the canal along the way. The canal was once a hive of industrial activity and has since been restored so it now serves as a picturesque hub for leisure activities and tourism. Each lock and harbour along his journey tells new stories as Manchán travels into County Longford through Abbeyshrule,Killashee and Clondraa.

Presenter
Manchán Magan

About
Manchan begins his journey from Mullingar Harbour west along the towpath to the Shannon River in Co.Longford. From here in Mullingar, 21 locks descend west to the shannon . The first part of the journey Manchan is joined by Eanna Rowe from Waterways Ireland who explains some of the history and more recent improvements to this Greenway Manchan continues his walk to coolnahay bridge and stops for tea and a scone in the tea shop, a famous and welcome place to take a break. Towards the end of the 1st video Manchgan hops aboard a pleasure craft and travels through a lock with new friends.

Grade
Moderate, the route is marked with Red arrows

Distance
Total walk/cycle is 60km from Mullingar Harbour to the Shannon.

Estimated time
Depending on mode of transport and fitness levels. 2 days walking cycling and by boat,

Highest point
95 metres above river Liffey.

Terrain underfoot
Footpath and trail.

Suitable for
Everyone. Dogs on leads welcome.

Starting Point
Mullingar Harbour