Royal Canal & Old Rail Trail Greenway

The Royal Canal Way

The Royal Canal Way is a picturesque National Waymarked Trail that unfolds from the Dublin banks of the waterway and reaches all the way to County Longford.

A six day, 144km undertaking, this linear trail’s terrain consists of grassy towpath, gravel and tarmac. Between its Dublin and County Longford limits, the idyllic waterway stretches through counties Kildare, Meath and Westmeath too.

Flat underfoot, the Royal Canal Way is an easy, pleasant route that showcases the canal’s abundance of scenery and architectural heritage.

Watch out for captivating wildlife, exceptional examples of centuries-old engineering including stone bridges and canal locks and of course, the odd canal barge too.

There are plenty of welcoming towns along the route for you to stay overnight in or simply take a break in - depending on how much of the trail you take. There are also many public transport options, should you wish to easily return to your start point.

Why not use the Annebrook House Hotel as a stop off point along the way. We provide the best quality dining and accomodation as well as bike storage. We can also arrange bike hire with local bike hire companies.

Old Rail Trail Greenway

Pedal your way through the heart of Ireland on the delightful Old Rail Trail Greenway, County Westmeath, beginning in the heart of Athlone at the River Shannon Marina through to Mullingar where it links with the Royal Canal Greenway. Alive with wildlife, the gentle whirring of your bike is accompanied by gentle birdsong all along the way.The entire 43km Old Rail Trail Greenway in County Westmeath is an off road and flat pathway which is ideal for a leisurely cycle or stroll with the whole family.

The trail works its way along the historic Midlands Great Western Railway track past restored station houses and under stone arched bridges. Make your way through areas of biodiversity and soak up the heritage of County Westmeath as you journey from the River Shannon in Athlone to the Royal Canal in Mullingar.

Stop off along the way for refreshments in the welcoming cafés and fantastic restaurants in Athlone, Moate, Streamstown, Castletown, Ballinea and Mullingar. Pick up your bike rental from one of the providers in Athlone or Mullingar and start your cycle.

Why not use the Annebrook House Hotel as your starting or finish point for your cycle.

Bike Hire is available from Mullingar Bike Hire and Ballymahon Greenway Cycles.