Ballymahon: Cycling, Canal and Goldsmith

Ballymahon appeals to travellers who want to combine cycling along the canal, activities on the water and the life story of Oliver Goldsmith in one trip. The town is a suitable starting point or stopover for a cycle along the 130 km Royal Canal Greenway. The River Inny is also part of the local landscape: it passes Newcastle House before continuing to Ballymahon.

Cycling the Royal Canal Greenway

The Royal Canal Greenway offers a practical setting for a cycle with Ballymahon as a starting point or stopover. Ballymahon Greenway Cycles on Mostrim Road offers bicycle hire and repair services. Route suggestions and free maps are also available there; check in advance whether maps are available.

The Royal Canal Greenway runs by Ballybrannigan Harbour. Walking, cycling, boating, fishing and wildlife watching are possible there; some activities may depend on providers and local conditions. Ballybrannigan Canal Stores is a functioning canal warehouse at the harbour. The harbour is also an important stop on the National Famine Way.

River Inny: Fishing and Kayak Tours

The River Inny offers another way to spend time on the water. It is a coarse fishing river, with numerous fishing spots along its course. Check in advance which fishing spots are accessible and what conditions apply locally. Inny Kayakers offers guided kayak tours on the River Inny near Ballymahon. Fishing and guided kayaking are two different ways to include the river in your trip.

Oliver Goldsmith in Ballymahon and the Surrounding Area

The Goldsmith Festival and Centre in Ballymahon Library offers insight into the life and career of Oliver Goldsmith (1728–1774). Check the current presentation details before visiting.

Outside Ballymahon, near Newcastle Demesne, lies Pallas. It was the site of the Goldsmith family home and the birthplace of Oliver Goldsmith. Visitors can see a memorial statue, a commemorative plaque and a garden honouring the author. Forgney is also nearby: Goldsmith was baptised in the village church, which has a memorial window dedicated to him.

In County Longford: Woodland Trails and Heritage

Newcastle Woodland is in Newcastle, near Ballymahon, in County Longford. Managed by Coillte, the mixed woodland covers 325 hectares and extends along both sides of the River Inny, an important tributary of the River Shannon. Its network includes 14 km of trails of varying lengths. A 400 m Access for All trail and a 1 km wheelchair-accessible trail also pass through the woodland. Check current trail and access conditions before visiting.

In County Longford, the National Famine Way follows the Royal Canal Greenway. The signposted 165 km walking and cycling route follows the last known journey on Irish soil of 1,490 people who were forced to leave Strokestown in County Roscommon in 1847. Alongside the Goldsmith story, this provides another historical connection to consider when planning your trip.

Bus Services to Ballymahon

Route 73 from Waterford to Athlone stops in Ballymahon and Longford Town. Route 466 from Athlone to Cavan also stops in Ballymahon, as well as in Keenagh, Longford Town, Edgeworthstown and Granard. Stops vary by route; check the latest timetables before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Mosstown, Moyne, Edgeworthstown, Cloondara, Killashee, Granard, Longford, Lanesborough

For the wider travel overview: County Longford.