Royal Canal Greenway

The Royal Canal Greenway stretches alongside a historic 225-year-old canal. Ireland's longest greenway, this 130km route begins in Maynooth and passes through Counties Kildare, Meath, Westmeath and Longford. A level path, it is ideal for walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages and abilities.  

Voted Best Greenway in Europe in November 2023, visitors from across the world have made over 640,000 trips on the Royal Canal Greenway since it was first opened in March 2021. It was also named Cycling Route of the Year 2022 at the Dutch walking and cycling fair, Fiets en Wandelbeurs!

It is easy to see why the Royal Canal Greenway is award-winning when you travel on its route that passes 90 bridges, 33 locks, 17 harbours and four aqueducts. The route is also lined with shops, B&Bs, restaurants and pubs. Greenway users can choose to complete the entire 130km flat, off-road trail or explore the shorter designated routes – ranging from 6km to 15km – between the 14 connection access points and towns.

County Longford and the Royal Canal Greenway

The County Longford section of the Royal Canal Greenway stretches 16.5km from Longford Town via Killashee to Richmond Harbour, Clondra. The route is lined with small rural villages and cute cafés and you will not be stuck for a place to picnic with a pretty view. 

Access points to get onto the Greenway in County Longford include (click on the access point to get brought to the location on Google Maps):

Longford Town, Cloondara, Killashee, Mosstown Harbour, Longford Bridge Ballymahon, Ballybrannigan Harbour, Abbeyshrule Harbour, and Whitworth Aquaduct Abbeyshrule.

Take a look at former Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Paul Ross showing us the sights and visiting some of the fabulous businesses on the Royal Canal Greenway

Wildlife on Route

There is plenty of flora and fauna to see as you walk or cycle the Royal Canal Greenway. You might spot some kestrels, curlews, buzzards, grey herons, or hares. Find out more about what you might see on route on this map of the County Longford section of the Royal Canal Greenway.

Bike Rental

You don't need to pack your bicycle if you are tight on space! You can hire your bike from Midlands Cycle Hub in Clondra, Ballymahon Greenway Cycles in Ballymahon and EBikes from Screamin' Beans Coffee at Abbeyshrule Aerodrome.  

Food and Drink

Visit our Food & Drink section to see where to spot for a bite to eat and some refreshments.

Guides to the Royal Canal Greenway

Read the Discover the Royal Canal Greenway information guide.

See our Royal Canal Greenway Walking Map