Carrick-on-Shannon Itinerary
Carrick-on-Shannon–Cora Droma Ruisc in Irish, or “the weir of the marshy ridge” is the county town of Leitrim and home to around 5,000 people. Historically, it served as the gateway to the River Shannon, the longest river in Ireland and an important trade and transportation network. Travellers and traders once used this vibrant town for refuge and lodging to rest in the middle of their long journeys. And just like in days past, modern visitors will feel warmly welcomed by the town’s friendly pubs, restaurants, and residents.
A break in Carrick-on-Shannon isn’t complete without a visit to the Costello Memorial Chapel. A Carrick-on-Shannon resident constructed the chapel in 1877 in memory of his late wife, and measuring only 16x12 feet (5x3.6 metres), it’s the second-smallest chapel in the world and ironically known as the Irish Taj Mahal. Inside, both husband and wife lay entombed with a lone stained glass window illuminating their coffins. If you’re a fan of old buildings and offbeat history, you won’t be disappointed by this strangely charming attraction.
A guided tour of the Arigna Mines will take you through the last working coal mine in Ireland. You will gain insight into the life and times of a coal miner while exploring the 400-year history of coal mining in Ireland.
The natural beauty of the Carrick-on-Shannon area is on full view when you climb aboard a boat. Water tours and cruises will take you along the Shannon and the surrounding lakes available for exploration all year long.
After spending a day exploring the town, take the time to head north toward the Sligo border to explore some of the natural wonders of County Leitrim. Just an hour’s drive north of the city centre lies Glencar Waterfall, a 50 foot fall that is even more impressive after rain. The waterfall spills into Glencar Lough and visitors can follow the wooded walk around the lake and catch stunning glimpses of the fall from all angles.
If you’re looking for the best view in Leitrim, you have to book time in for an afternoon in the Sliabh an Iarainn mountain range. Only 25 minutes from Carrick-on-Shannon, Sliabh an Iarainn is full of plenty of walking trails and loops that cater to hillwalkers of all levels. Most paths offer stunning panoramic views of Lough Allen and beyond to the west and midlands of Ireland.
After a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than sitting down for a good meal. The Oarsman, a Carrick-on-Shannon hotspot, has taken on the title of Irish Gastropub of the Year, well earned for its tasty, fresh food and reasonable prices. Most entrees can be made into half portions for kids, so diners young and old can enjoy the smart, thoughtful creations of the Oarsman chefs.