Along the River Barrow in County Carlow, Clashganny Lock is a quiet spot that echoes Ireland's canal history, set amidst lovely woods and waterways. It was part of the Barrow Navigation system, a busy trade route from the late 1700s until the 1960s, used for transporting goods like grain to breweries in Dublin (including Guinness!). The stone lock structure, restored by the Inland Waterways Association, is a fine example of Victorian engineering. The towpath beside it follows the route where horses and men once pulled barges. Today, it's a peaceful destination for walkers and history enthusiasts.
There are two main walking loops starting here. The Clashganny Lock Loop is an easy 3.6km (about 1.5 hours) walk on flat ground beside the river and through 19th-century woods, marked with green-and-yellow arrows. You'll see the lock itself, the nearby Ballykeenan Lock, and lovely river views. The longer Clashganny Viewing Point Loop (6km, about 2 hours), marked with purple arrows, goes deeper into the woods and leads to a 'mass rock' – a granite slab used for secret Catholic services during Penal times. Both trails pass through mature woodlands filled with ferns and wildflowers, offering a mix of riverside scenery and quiet forest paths.
It's a peaceful place, but be careful near the river, as the currents can be strong. Spring and autumn are lovely times to visit, with pleasant weather and beautiful seasonal colours in the woods. While the woodland trails aren't suitable for buggies, the riverside paths are more accessible. Look out for interesting features like a uniquely crooked old tree. If you need refreshments, Clashganny House Restaurant and the village of Borris are nearby. The lock is also close to the Barrow Line, a 25km towpath trail perfect for longer walks or bike rides. Clashganny Lock is a spot where you can enjoy nature while stepping back into Ireland's industrial past.
Getting There
Driving Directions:
- From Dublin: Take the M9 south toward Carlow. Exit just past Carlow town, then follow the R763 through Leighlinbridge and Bagnelstown to Borris. From Borris, head toward Graiguenamanagh and watch for the turnoff to Clashganny Lock on the Borris-to-Graiguenamanagh road. This route takes about 1 hour from Kilcullen, a town near Dublin.
- From Carlow: Drive west on the R763 toward Borris, then follow signs to Clashganny Lock.
- From Waterford: Travel north on the N8 toward Kilkenny, then take the R763 west toward Borris.
Public Transport:
Buses run to Borris (exact schedules/numbers unspecified), after which you can walk the 4km trailhead route or arrange a taxi. For bus timetables and rail options (the nearest station details are not provided), consult Transport for Ireland's website (www.transportforireland.ie) or call +353 1 879 8300.
Local Transport:
Taxis are available in Borris for the short trip to Clashganny Lock. This is recommended if arriving by bus, as the walk from Borris takes 30-40 minutes.
Parking
Visitors to Clashganny Lock have several parking options: the main on-site parking is available at the Clashganny Lock Car Park, located directly at the attraction's entrance. This serves as the starting point for the Clashganny Lock Loop trail and is often shared with families participating in canoeing activities, so it can fill up during peak hours. A second dedicated parking area, the Clashganny Viewing Point Car Park, is nearby and serves the viewing point loop trail, offering easy access to that trailhead as well.
Parking is free at both locations, with no fees or payment methods required.
If the on-site lots are full, especially during busy weekends or summer months, consider parking in Borris town, a short drive away. From there, a brief walk or drive brings you to Clashganny Lock.
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