Termonbarry: Bridge, Lock and River Shannon

The village of Termonbarry borders the River Shannon. A trip here can therefore be combined with two topics: the history of the bridge and traffic on the water.

Bridge and history on the River Shannon

Termonbarry Bridge is a multi-arched road bridge over the River Shannon. It was built around 1845. Anyone interested in structures will find a clear piece of local history here: a road bridge whose several arches are part of its design and whose history dates back to the 19th century. The bridge should be distinguished from a later revived proposal: support was sought again for a canal from Dublin to Tarmonbarry, with the aim of reviving earlier plans. This is a planning history, not a description of an existing canal.

Marina, lock and lifting bridge

There is a marina in Tarmonbarry where cruisers can moor overnight. The lock and lifting bridge are also relevant to larger cruise ships: the lock is operated by a lock keeper and opened for larger vessels; the lifting bridge is also opened for them and operated by a lock keeper. For a trip on the water, this means that both a possible overnight stay and passage through the lock and over the lifting bridge are separate planning considerations. If your boat trip depends on them, check current availability at the marina and the applicable operating conditions for your passage in advance.

Hotel and named places in the village

Keenan’s Pub, Restaurant and Hotel in Tarmonbarry has been run by the Keenan family for six generations. The name brings together a hotel and restaurant with a long family history. Check current availability before making firm plans for your accommodation. Another named address is the Purple Onion Restaurant, Bar and Art Gallery, which offers dinner and the opportunity to view art. If you would like to include a visit in your trip, it is advisable to check what is currently on offer in advance.

St. Barry’s Boat is located nearby, on the grounds of Whitehall Church, in front of the church in the parish of Tarmonbarry in County Roscommon. This point of interest is in the vicinity of the village, while the bridge, marina and lock are the main considerations for immediate trip planning. When choosing your accommodation, you can distinguish between a stay in the village, a trip on the water or other destinations in County Roscommon.

Other highlights in County Roscommon

County Roscommon offers distinct historical and landscape attractions for a trip beyond Termonbarry. Boyle is home to Boyle Abbey, a well-preserved 12th-century Cistercian monastery. The restored gatehouse houses an interpretation centre. The history of the architecture and the gatehouse’s role as an exhibition space offer different points of interest for a visit.

Guided tours of the Palladian mansion are offered at Strokestown Park. The estate includes walled gardens, ornamental gardens and wilder woodland areas. The National Famine Museum uses exhibits and interactive displays to explore the Great Irish Famine. This combination offers a different focus in County Roscommon from Termonbarry’s bridge and navigation history. As tour times may change, check the current times if you are planning a visit.

For a landscape perspective in County Roscommon, there is the Suck Valley Way: the circular route runs from Mount Talbot along the western side of the Suck to the outskirts of Castlerea, then returns along the eastern side, with a short break in between. The route includes lowland walks through bogs, flood meadows, woodland and traditional farmland; some sections run alongside the river. This lets you choose between a trail with several types of landscape and the local structures and waterways in Termonbarry. Check current route conditions before setting out on a walk.

Discover more destinations: Keadew, Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, Elphin, Ballyfarnon, Ballintober, Arigna, Béal Na Mbuillí.

For the wider travel overview: County Roscommon.