Go~With~The~Flow River Adventures
Clashganny on River BarrowGPS: 52.559831, -6.91537t: 087–2529700e: info@gowiththeflow.ieExplore the most beautiful and enchanting waterway in Ireland by canoe. Families need look no further if it’s adventure and fun you want for your great day out. Go-With-The-Flow are a favourite with those seeking spills and thrills in an action packed event. Qualified guides see you through all the whitewater, over all the weirs and waterfalls and down the rapids of the River Barrow. No experience necessary, all you need is a bunch of friends and time to chill. Tailored family learning days, corporate and social club days and individual canoe hire also available. You can spend two or three days just idling along the river, stopping off in every little village along the way.https://gowiththeflow.ie/
Paddle Your Own Canoe
Barrowmount House GoresbridgeCo Kilkennyt: 087–4140461e: info@paddleyourowncanoe.ieTake the first left after Ballytiglea Bridge. The bridge is situated close to the village of Borris, off the Borris - Graiguenamanagh Road R705.Hire a canoe and paddle down the River Barrow through some of Ireland’s most scenic and beautiful landscapes and locations. Nathan Horan of Paddle Your Own Canoe offers visitors the opportunity to rent a canoe and camping gear and organise a trip along the River Barrow. During your adventure you will pass through lush countryside, rolling hills, and forests and by mountain ranges including Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs and Brandon Hill. Beautiful riverside towns and villages offer ample opportunity for shopping, eating and enjoying a pint or two of Guinness in any of the unique, authentic and even famous pubs. You will pass by historic sites including country houses, castles, excellent examples of industrial heritage and monastic sites including Borris House, the 6th century monastic site in St. Mullins, Milford Mills and the White Castle. The supplied two-man open Canadian canoe has enough room to store luggage, paddles, buoyancy aides, helmets, camping gear, dry bags, watertight barrels, tents, sleeping mats, and kelly kettles. Riverside B&B or hotel accommodation is also available. There is an abundance of wildlife on this river with plenty of opportunities to see otters, egrets, herons, kingfishers, salmon, trout and many more. A longer six-day adventure starts in Monasterevin and finishes in New Ross covering 107km, passing through eight different towns and villages along the way. The river also has a 200-year-old navigation system which means there is a tow/walking path running parallel to the river, making it safe and convenient to get off the water at any time. It is possible to camp along the banks of the river. Suitable for beginners and more experienced canoeists, ideal for friends, romantic couples, families, and stag or hen adventures.https://www.paddleyourowncanoe.ie/
Pure Adventure
The QuayGraiguenamanaghCo. Kilkennyt: 087–2265550e: info@pureadventure.iew: www.pureadventure.ieGPS: 52.539363, -6.953981In the town of Graiguenamanagh – follow R705 from BorrisGet your adrenaline flowing with whitewater kayaking from Pure Adventure. Specialists in exceptional outdoor experiences and training in outdoor sports, Pure Adventure is based in Graiguenamanagh on the banks of the River Barrow in the heart of the Barrow Valley. It’s a family run business, bringing you passion, experience and trained quality instructors. Whether it’s whitewater kayaking or a gentler canoeing tour of the River Barrow, you will be able to enjoy the weirs and rapids of Ireland’s second longest river. Breathe in the scenic beauty of the wooded river valley and discover the historical transport route of the Barrow Navigation system. Stand Up Paddle Boarding is one of the most relaxing water activities and gives a real sense of the wilderness, tradition, and adventure associated with a trip along the River Barrow. The feeling of walking on water is hard to beat as you watch kingfishers buzz by, herons fishing on rocks, and an otter swimming around. Pure Adventure offers something for everyone and the classic canoe tour takes visitors along the River Barrow in the most relaxing way possible. You will glide from the river to the canal, utilising the 200-year-old lock system to descend as far as the historic village of St. Mullins where you can step off the water and straight into a beautiful riverside café. Pure Adventure also offers a guided walking service in the Barrow Valley. Immerse yourself in the areas around Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs Mountains, Brandon Hill, and the Barrow Way, with unrivalled local knowledge on the tracks and trails of South Carlow. Pure Adventure also offers multi-activity, bike-and-paddle days in conjunction with Waterside Bike and Hike (www.watersideguesthouse.com).
Angling On The River Barrow
The River Barrow is renowned as a coarse and game angling river for bream, roach, dace, hybrids, rudd, perch and pike, brown trout, sea trout and salmon. The river has easy access points via a towpath. In 2016 a strict catch and release policy applies in respect of all salmon, while the river is closed for all eel fishing. The salmon and brown trout season on the River Barrow commences on March 17th and finishes on September 30th. Other fishing (with the exception of salmon and brown trout) is available year round. The rivers Greese and Lerr, tributaries of the River Barrow, provide excellent brown trout fishing while the River Burrin is one of the finest trout fishing rivers in the region. The excellent stocks of quality pike are one of the main attractions for anglers on the River Barrow, with stocks of 20+lbs. Pike angling is carried out on all stretches of the river between Athy and St. Mullins with the main locations being Bahana Wood, just above St. Mullins, Graiguenamanagh and Ballytiglea Bridge near Borris. Pike, bream and hybrids are the primary species but rudd is also abundant here. It is vital to make oneself familiar with the pike regulations, prior to fishing for pike. In 2015 the River Barrow produced a specimen weight roach/bream hybrid of 2.35kg from St. Mullins, a specimen pike from Graiguenamanagh and a specimen weight for dace at St. Mullins. The River Barrow is truly the last remaining fishery for twaite shad where they still enter in large numbers. They are normally caught by spinning but can also be caught on the fly and a competition is held at St. Mullins each May. All anglers are encouraged to use barbless hooks if possible. A state licence is only required to fish for salmon and sea trout. Available from Murph’s, Tullow Street, Carlow.t: +353 (0)59 913 2839 w: www.murphsfishing.comFor further information visit www.fisheriesireland.ie e: info@fisheriesireland.ie t: +353 (0)1 884 2600
Murph’s Fishing Tackle
Cathedral Close Tullow StreetCarlow GPS: 52.836149, -6.926452 t: 059–9132839 e: murphs10@hotmail.comMurph’s Fishing Tackle is the ideal outlet for supplies of all types of fishing equipment – for the serious and not so serious angler. Suppliers of ground bait, pellets, live bait and dead bait. Stockists of a large selection of reels, rods, lures and fishing accessories. Information on fishing in the local area is provided as well as licences for salmon and permits for trout.https://fishingtackledirect.ie/
Borris House, Gardens and Woodland Walk
In the centre of Borris village.Borris House, the ancestral home of the McMorrough Kavanaghs, Kings of Leinster, is one of the most beautiful and historic Irish country houses located in the spectacular scenery of Carlow’s Barrow Valley. Explore the grounds of the estate taking in Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs Mountains, and the River Barrow. Stroll along the woodland paths, view the original Stew Pond and, on your way, take in the original Victorian laundry, the recently restored granary, and the 18th century Ice House. The new lace garden within the walls of the original laundry green, illustrates the fascinating story of Borris Lace. Visitors can also avail of a tour of Borris House and the private Chapel of St. Moling and learn more about the estate and the people who lived and worked there. The estate features a stunning looped walk of varied inclines, terrain and views and follows a trail through impressive woodlands to the confluence of the River Barrow and the Mountain River, and back again. Beginning adjacent to Borris House, the walk proceeds downhill, past an old saw mill. The trail then progresses up a moderate incline through managed woodland of native species such as oak, ash, holly, yew and scots pine. The walk then proceeds downhill and over a charming 19th century hump-backed bridge. The trail loops back and continues for a short distance along the banks of the Mountain River, before ascending a steep incline. Remember to collect a map on arrival at the front gate entrance. The looped walk is a must for those who enjoy a comfortable country walk. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies (unless specifically designed for rough terrain). Admission fee applies.
Waterside Bike & Hike- Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire
Waterside Guesthouse Graiguenamanagh Co. Kilkenny GPS: 52.540231, -6.953942 t: 059–9724246/086–4084008 e: bike&hike@watersideguesthouse.com On the Quay in Graiguenamanagh.Explore a natural wonderland cycling or hiking along the River Barrow towpath, kicking off from the base of Waterside Bike and Hike on the banks of the River Barrow in Graiguenamanagh. Whether you choose to travel upriver or downriver, the trail is spectacular as the river valley is fringed with fabulous deciduous trees and well-preserved hedgerows. Waterside maintains a large fleet of top quality mountain bikes perfect for this trail. They also hire out electric mountain bikes for those who want to tackle some of the higher peaks in the area. All bikes come with helmets, hi-viz vests and locks as required and are perfect for families, couples, or groups. Waterside also offers ecology based bike tours on the traffic-free River Barrow towpath. Whether you want a tour or simply to meander at your own pace, you will marvel at the scenic quality of the River Barrow Valley. There, you can enjoy uninterrupted and peaceful, quiet travel with the opportunity to encounter some of the local wildlife including heron, otter, pine marten, tree creeper and many more. Stop at a lock gate and learn how cargo boats plied these waters nearly 200 years ago, and maybe a passing barge will illustrate how this navigation still operates today. You may even get a chance to try winding open a lock gate yourself! Waterside can also offer multi-activity, bike-and-paddle days in conjunction with Pure Adventure(www.pureadventure.ie)
Special Ops Paintball
5km south of Borris off the R729 Borris – New Ross road.If you fancy something different for a class trip, birthday, stag or hen party, or just a fun day out with family or friends, Special Ops Paintball is the perfect place for an action-packed day outdoors. With a semi-automatic paintball gun and full safety equipment, Special Ops Paintball is a great way to have safe, adrenaline-filled fun with your friends, classmates, or teammates. Special Ops Paintball can tailor your package to the size of the group. The game is played outdoors so you get the benefit of a real-life scenario, competing with and against your friends. It’s fun, safe, with plenty of exercise and laughs along the way. With over 15 years’ experience running paintball games, the friendly and professional staff on hand will ensure you have a great day out. Full safety equipment, camouflage overalls and a safety mask are provided, though you’ll have to bring your own footwear! Minimum age 12 years.
Specialist Activities And Clubs
The Blackstairs Ramblers are a group of hill walkers who, as their name suggests, enjoy rambling mainly on the Blackstairs Mountains. They walk on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. Two club walks also take place on Thursday night accommodating different levels of fitness. See the website for a full walk schedule.The ML Syndicate is Carlow’s only dedicated mountain biking club. Whether you are a weekend spinner or a full on racer, join them in the Kilbrannish Hills, on the Blackstairs Mountains, for great fun and adventure. DH, XC, Enduro and social spins all catered for. Racing 795 sports club enjoys many activities in the Kilbrannish Hills and the Blackstairs Mountains such as road and mountain biking, triathlon, trail running and adventure racing. Host of many popular races in the area including Tri795 and the Mount Leinster MTB Challenge. Tullow Mountaineering Club organise graded mountain walks every Sunday from Barrack Street, Carlow town. Cars depart at 9.30am with walks graded easy, medium and hard. Walks are located in the local Blackstairs Mountains and in the other surrounding mountain areas. Easy walks are arranged for the first Sunday of every month and are suitable for beginners. Evening walks each Wednesday and Friday. Confirm attendance in advance by visiting Facebook or the website. Bring suitable clothing. Paraglide Adventure Mount Leinster is an internationally renowned location for hang-gliding and paragliding and a multi-directional site. Whether you are a spectator or enjoy participating, this venue provides a most enjoyable day’s entertainment with colourful take offs, set against fabulous scenery. Most Sundays from March to October, weather permitting. For information on paraglide training contact Paraglide Adventure.
Blackstairs Ecotrails
Exit at Junction 6 on the M9. Follow signs from Leighlinbridge and from there for Bagenalstown. In Bagenalstown take the R705 for Borris. In Borris turn left and continue through the town and turn left under the old arched railway bridge (L3006). Situated on the left hand sideamongst trees after 5.4km.Want to know more about the birds, flora, fungi, mammals and butterflies of the Blackstairs Mountains and the River Barrow? Blackstairs Ecotrails is a family owned business based in the beautiful Blackstairs Mountains, from where you can enjoy ecotrails, mountain and riverside hikes, foraging, mushroom and wild herbal workshops. Robert and Mary White will lead you on a two-hour ramble through the lovely lanes, lowlands, bogs and streams of this area looking at the natural topography of the landscape, the local archaeology which includes some fine standing stones and cairns and the splendid flora and fauna. Lichens and mosses, grasses and ferns, birds, mammals and butterflies are all presented in an easyto-follow, yet highly entertaining and educational manner. Otters, kingfishers and the little dipper who likes nesting under the many stone bridges in County Carlow all await discovery. The unique Celtic Tree Trail explores the relationship of the Celts with Ireland’s native trees. Depending on the weather, tours are held in the foothills of the Blackstairs – low hills or no hills, along the River Barrow or in the nearby townlands of Rathanna, Tomduff, Liselican or Raheen. An old barn, dating from 1831, has been renovated into a dedicated centre for all walks, seminars, workshops and school visits and is surrounded by meadows and a lovely rose and water garden.Foraging hen parties – a fun day in the wild with a Champagne brunch, foraging all matters of treats for the bride-to-be. Voted in the top 10 foodie hen parties by One Fab Day.Blackstairs Ecotrails is just one of 11 recipients of a Gold Standard by Eco Tourism Ireland.
Wildways Adventures
Wildways Adventures conduct guided group tours at various locations along the River Barrow.Explore the peace and tranquillity of the Barrow Way at a leisurely pace with Una Halpin from Wildways Adventures. With low-lying level paths and flat terrain, it’s easy to focus on the natural beauty of your surroundings. Immerse yourself in nature and learn to notice and appreciate the beauty in simple, everyday natural wonders. Whether it’s the range of wild spring flowers peppering the grass verges, the flight of bumblebees, butterflies and dragonflies in summer, or the beautiful colours of autumn leaves and fruits, there is something to enjoy in all seasons. Una will lead your family or group along the Barrow Way for a short stroll of an hour or two or for a longer adventure. With a combination of stories, facts and personal observations, the walk takes the form of a roving conversation. Una will move among the group to answer questions and point out plants, trees, insect life, and landscape features and discuss the natural and built heritage of the riverside and the lateral canals and locks.For younger groups and families with children, an extra fun element can be added with children hunting for particular leaves and flowers or using nets and collecting jars to gather live insects and spiders for closer observation. Walks can be tailored to fit with any activity itinerary with locations, times and duration designed to work with your plans. Suitable for organised groups including youth groups, adult groups, and groups of families. Leave the modern world behind as you tune into the birdsong and the slow peaceful flow of the River Barrow.
Barrowline Cruisers & Bike Hire
Vicarstown Co. Laois R32 E22Tt: 057–8626060 m: 087–9887241 e: info@barrowline.ieBarrowline Cruisers is an award-winning family run narrowboat and barge hire business. Situated on the Barrow Line of the Grand Canal, Vicarstown is the perfect starting point to begin your navigation along these stunning ancient waterways. Travelling by canal boat allows you to reach parts of the countryside not accessible in any other way. Slow down from the fast pace of modern life in an unspoilt landscape, cruising gently under stone bridges hundreds of years old. Experience the thrill of rushing water at the locks as they open and close, enabling you to pass through on your journey in this special place. Simple to operate, the barges were designed to combine traditional charm with modern day convenience. Cosy wood-burning stoves and central heating on board add to the ambience. Weekly and short break hire available.
Boattrips.ie
Jetty Carlow Town Park Graiguecullen Co. Carlow t: 087–2061999 e: boattrips.ie@gmail.comFor an outdoor adventure for all the family, enjoy an open-boat trip on the beautiful River Barrow. Take time to immerse yourself in nature and heritage, experiencing life as it was for the river folk of a bygone era. There is something for all to explore. Kids will enjoy spotting all manner of wildlife such as kingfishers, otters, dragonflies and shoals of fish as they glide past the boat. For those with a busy lifestyle, it’s the perfect occasion to switch off the mobile phone and relax inches above the waterline, unwinding to a more soothing pace of life. Hear the tales and legends of the river’s boatmen and gently touch the cool waters they plied while flowing through the ancient arteries of a once glacial Ireland. Trips are suitable for all, from the very young to the young at heart.For previous customer reviews, check out google maps or see https://www.boattrips.ie/
Larry’s Barge
Larry’s Barge is moored at the lock in St. Mullins village, 10km south of Borris.Experience the elegance and beauty of the River Barrow while cruising on your own private barge, winding your way through natural, historic landscapes. Sit back and enjoy breathtaking scenery, this is unspoilt Ireland at its best! You can charter Larry’s Barge with an experienced skipper for a day trip (maximum 10 passengers) or an overnight cruise for up to three days (four people maximum). Unwind as you move gently through the countryside with the soothing rhythm of the river. Day trips from St. Mullins where Larry’s Barge is moored take visitors through the beautiful South Carlow/Kilkenny landscape, skirting the majestic Blackstairs Mountains en route to Graiguenamanagh. Explore woodland trails, historic sites, beautiful locks, lock houses and sleepy villages. Enjoy evenings moored along the riverbank and take in some fishing before dining on-board. Weather permitting, why not lunch outside on the river bank? A customised itinerary is created for those availing of the overnight cruise option with visits to the main attractions as well as insider tips promised, all personally escorted by Larry himself. Larry’s Barge is finished to the highest standards and promises top-class accommodation with tasteful and eclectic furnishings. On-board mouth-watering cooking is arranged by Georgina, using only the finest and freshest local produce.
Jennifer’s Travels Barge Hire
Bell HarbourMonasterevinCo. Kildaret: 086–3425546 e: jenniferstravels@gmail.comEscape it all by taking the tiller of a Jennifer’s Travel’s barge. Cruise the River Barrow and Grand Canal in a boat of character. A friendly, family-run, well-established operation. Located in Bell Harbour in the centre of Monasterevin Town, halfway between the River Barrow and the Grand Canal, making it an ideal choice to explore either or both waterways. Built in a traditional stern style, specifically for holiday cruising, there is a large deck to the stern and a second deck to the bow. It offers all the comforts of home and sleeps up to four adults comfortably.https://jenniferztravels.com/travel/
Barrow Blueway Bike Hire
Barrow Blueway Bike Hiret: 086–8954961e: info@kilkennycyclingtours.comMobile bike hire delivery service everywhere between Athy, Carlow Town, Bagenalstown, Graiguenamanagh and St. Mullins. With over 200 bikes, large groups, events and individuals are catered for. If organising a school trip or exploring the beautiful scenic River Barrow with friends and family contact us and a tailored cycle route with a support vehicle will be provided. Bikes must be pre-booked to avoid disappointment. Bike hire depots also available at Sullivan’s Brewing Company, John Street, Kilkenny; 1 Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan; Main Street, Kilmacthomas along the Waterford Greenway and in Tramore. Guided and self-guided cycling tours and bike hire service.
Carrigbeg Riding Stables
Carrigbeg BagenalstownCo. CarlowR21 RF86t: 059–9721962/087–9372317 e: carrigbeg@gmail.com Contact: Susan Patterson BHSIIRiding lessons available for children and adults from beginners to competition level. Features indoor and outdoor arena and cross country course. Cross country jumping for experienced riders. No trekking. Advance booking essential. HOW TO FIND US: L7004, 800 metres off the R724 Bagenalstown–Myshall Road. OPEN: January 3rd – December 23rd. Closed Sundays, Bank Holiday Mondays and August Bank Holiday week. RATES PER HOUR: children (over 6 and under 16 years of age) €22. Adults €25. Groups of six or more: reduction available
Bagenalstown Swimming Pool
Leighlinbridge Road Bagenalstown Co. Carlow GPS: 52.71091, -6.954722Bagenalstown Swimming Club is a long established voluntary club located in idyllic surroundings adjacent to the River Barrow. An ideal destination for all age groups to enjoy swimming activities in geo-thermally heated pools. A paddling pool offers younger swimmers the chance to get confident with water, the 25m pool allows all swimmers to progress and enjoy swimming in a relaxed, outdoor environment.The club also offers swimming lessons, summer camps, water safety classes, river races and swimming galas. Open early June – late Aug with seasonal membership and casual rates. All are welcome.
