Shannon Blueway

What is kayaking Shannon Blueway like?

Ireland's first official Blueway trail follows the restored Leitrim Canal and Acres Lake from Drumshanbo south towards Battlebridge. The flat-water route passes through reed-fringed channels where moorhens and coots nest, and the restored stone-arched bridges frame views of the rolling Leitrim hills. Perfect for families and beginners.

How do I paddle Shannon Blueway? Put-in, take-out and logistics

The Shannon Blueway was Ireland's first designated paddle trail, launched in 2014 as a collaboration between Waterways Ireland, Leitrim County Council, and local communities. The Drumshanbo section follows the restored Leitrim Canal from the lock in the town centre through Acres Lake and onwards to Battlebridge, roughly 13 km to the south. Drumshanbo Lock has a dedicated Blueway launch point with information boards, parking, and toilet facilities. The canal section north of Acres Lake is narrow — barely two kayak widths in places — and the banks are thick with reed, sedge, and yellow iris in summer.

When is the best time to paddle Shannon Blueway?

Acres Lake opens up after about 2 km and provides the most scenic section of the route, with views east to Sliabh an Iarainn (the Iron Mountain) and west to the drumlin hills of Leitrim. The lake is shallow — rarely more than 3 metres — and the clear water reveals beds of pondweed where pike lurk and tench feed. South of Acres Lake the canal resumes, passing through farmland intersected by restored stone hump-backed bridges that frame the rolling countryside. The route is dead flat with no current to speak of, no portages, and no hazards beyond the occasional overhanging branch — ideal for beginners, families, and anyone who prefers a relaxed pace. Battlebridge at the southern end has a small car park and landing stage. Shuttle back to Drumshanbo by road is about 15 km. The Blueway can also be paddled in reverse, though starting from Drumshanbo keeps the prevailing south-westerly wind at your back on the return.