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Banagher

For all lovers of watersports and those interested in an attractive visitor destination with great character, the beautiful town of Banagher, County Offaly offers many possibilities.

Splendidly located on the great River Shannon, and just accross the river from Co Galway, the town boasts a modern marina upstream from the fine stone bridge over the Shannon, offering extensive facilities for river cruisers and watersports.  There’s also an open-air swimming pool in the delightful riverside park.

There is excellent fishing for pike, roach and bream in the Shannon and boats are available for hire.

A wide variety of shops, pubs and restaurants caters for the many water lovers and other tourists who visit Banagher.

For walking enthusiasts, the western end of the Grand Canal Way, an 81-mile walk along the towpath to Dublin, is located at Shannon Harbour, just 5km (3ml) to the north.

There is much to see and explore all around the town. Watch out for relics of its strategic defensive position spanning the river for over 600 years as you view the 17th century Martello tower fortification, bridgehead and batteries which still command the river crossing.

The centrepiece of the town is the main street which runs downhill to the river and its harbour. A notable landmark is the 19th century hotel, with bow window, where the famous author, Anthony Trollope, stayed for a time while living in Banagher and writing his first two novels there.  The town is also the production location for the RTE Drama 'Pure Mule'. 

Located just 14kms (8.5 miles) from the Georgian town of Birr on the R439 and within a short distance of the great expanse of Lough Derg, Banagher is well placed for touring the many attractions of the wider lake area.