Set off on a self-guided one-day canoe trip from Goresbridge to Graiguenamanagh, taking around five hours with shorter and longer route options available. This stretch of the River Barrow is perfect for beginners, with calm navigation channels to avoid weirs and rapids.
The route winds through stunning scenery, from the woodlands of Borris House to the dramatic cliffs of Clashganny and the historic bridge at Graiguenamanagh. You’ll pass forested banks, quiet lock houses, and hidden architectural gems along the way.
For those looking to extend the adventure, there are wild camping spots throughout the route, plus our exclusive riverside campsite at The Hub with full facilities. It’s a flexible and unforgettable way to explore one of Ireland’s most beautiful waterways.
This self-guided trip starts at Goresbridge and usually ends at Graiguenamanagh, taking approximately five hours. There are two optional finish locations before Graiguenamanagh for those who prefer a shorter journey, and one finish location beyond it for those looking for more time on the water.
There are seven weirs and three sets of rapids along the way, all of which can be easily avoided via the left-hand navigation channel — ideal for beginners or those who prefer to stay dry. It’s possible to remain on flat water for the entire route, making it well-suited to first-timers and anyone new to paddling.
Those wishing to go over the weirs and rapids should have previous experience or knowledge of the river, or seek instruction. It’s also possible to portage (carry) your canoe or kayak over the weirs if you prefer not to shoot them.
This section of the river is considered one of the most scenic — and it’s a personal favourite of ours. Highlights include long, forested riverbanks through the Borris House estate, the remote and wild-feeling Douglas fir cliffs of Clashganny, the oak forest island at Clohastia, and the dramatic boulder-lined approach to Graiguenamanagh with its beautiful eighteenth-century limestone bridge.
Along the way, you’ll also spot picturesque riverside buildings such as Barrowmount House estate, a large American-style log home near Ballytiglea Weir, the charming Borris lock house, and the remains of Clohastia Castle.
For those looking to camp, there are several idyllic wild camping spots along the route. You can refer to our trail map or get in touch for advice. There’s also camping available at The Hub in Graiguenamanagh — a ‘Paddle Your Own Canoe’ exclusive campsite offering toilets, showers, changing areas, fire pits and BBQs. It’s conveniently close to town yet feels quiet and secluded. Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by the site and often say they can’t believe they hadn’t heard of it before — though it’s quickly becoming a favourite.
(Camping or accommodation optional)
Plan your one-day paddle with ease — here’s what you need to know about distances, timings, and transport.
To Ballytiglea Bridge
Approx. 2 hours paddling (6.5 km)
7-minute drive
Start Point – Goresbridge
Ballytiglea Bridge Location
To Clashganny Lock
Approx. 4 hours paddling (10 km)
11-minute drive
Clashganny Lock Location
To Graiguenamanagh
Approx. 5 hours paddling (13 km)
13-minute drive
Graiguenamanagh Location
To St Mullins
Approx. 7 hours paddling (20 km)
22-minute drive
St Mullins Location
If you’re arriving with more than one vehicle, we recommend:
Driving both cars to your planned finish point.
Parking one car there.
Returning to the start location in the second car to begin your paddle.
This ensures transport is ready for you at the end of your trip.
If you’re travelling with a single vehicle:
We may be able to offer a lift back using our small bus (5 seats).
During busy weekends in June, July, and August, this may not always be possible.
In those cases, a local taxi service is available (typical cost: €15–€20).
Customised routes are also available upon request. Popular options include:
Graiguenamanagh to St Mullins – Approx. 3 hours
Bagenalstown to Goresbridge – Approx. 4 hours
Bennettsbridge to Inistioge (River Nore) – Approx. 5 hours
Contact us if you’d like to plan a tailored experience.
Your One-Day Canoe & Camp Adventure
Begin your self-guided adventure at the riverside meeting point in Goresbridge. After a brief safety overview, we’ll provide all your equipment—buoyancy aid, paddle, helmet, and dry barrel. Once you're set, you'll learn some basic paddling techniques in calm water before heading off.
Set off downstream on one of the most scenic sections of the River Barrow. The journey typically takes about 5 hours, ending in Graiguenamanagh. Want a shorter route? There are two earlier take-out points. Prefer more time on the water? You can continue beyond Graiguenamanagh for an extended paddle.
The route includes seven weirs and three sets of rapids, all of which are easily avoided using the left-hand navigation channels—perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a smooth ride. You can stay on flat water the entire way. For experienced paddlers, there’s the option to shoot the weirs or portage around them.
Along the way, enjoy highlights like:
Forested stretches through the Borris House estate
The towering fir cliffs of Clashganny
Clohastia’s oak forest island and castle ruins
A dramatic finish through boulder-strewn waters to Graiguenamanagh’s beautiful 18th-century bridge
You'll also pass charming riverside features such as:
Barrowmount House estate
A large log home near Ballytiglea Weir
The Borris lock house
The remains of Clohastia Castle
If you’re camping, choose from beautiful wild camping spots along the river, or head to The Hub in Graiguenamanagh—a Paddle Your Own Canoe exclusive campsite. It offers toilets, showers, changing areas, fire pits, and BBQs, and is close to town but still quiet and secluded.
If you’re not camping, you can finish your journey in Graiguenamanagh and arrange for pickup or return transport.
Camping is optional. Ask us for custom advice or check our trail map for suggested locations.
What to Expect
Explore our Packages.
Perfect for a fun day out on the river, this trip allows you to choose your own distance and finishing point.
A true overnight adventure, combining a full day of paddling with an evening at the beautiful riverside campsite in Graiguenamanagh.
A mix of wild camping and scenic paddling, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
Custom trips for groups, events, or special adventures—designed your way.
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2025
Jul 2025
