Walk the Waterway
The Woodford Canal, also known as the Shannon-Erne Waterway, flows through Ballyconnell. A beautiful walk along a sparkling river is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Immerse yourself in the beauty of ancient trees and breathtaking landscapes.
Getting Here
Getting Here
Start at the Shopping Centre/Petrol station car park at the bridge in Ballyconnell and cross the road to a small amenity park. Walk along the canal for 200m passing a footbridge. Continue on the path along the river. Eventually you emerge into the open countryside with the river on your left and open field on your right.
Continue walking along the bank. After approximately 45 minutes you will approach Annagh Woods. Enter the woods following the path. After 300m keep right at the fork in the path. Follow the path until emerging from the forest. Follow the path for 200m. Take a right turn onto a small downhill path to your right. At the bottom of the hill, upon meeting the canal, turn left for home.
Facilities
Car parking, interpretation, picnic area. Café in Realta Shopping Centre (outside tables overlooking Woodford River).
Trail Information
Distance
3.5 miles / 6 km
Time
1 Hour 45 mins
Grade
Easy. Suitable for family groups including children
and the elderly. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn.
Terrain
Forest tracks.Generally flat with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps.
Route
Loop
Dogs
Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of
Waymarking
Waymarking: White arrow on blue background
Start Point
Ballyconnell Bridge car park
Finish Point
Ballyconnell Bridge car park
Nearest Town to Start
Ballyconnell
Grid Ref
H 274 186
Lat. and Long.
54.1152, -7.58186 / 54.1151969, -7.58185766
Heritage
Let Woodford River Walk awaken your senses with beautiful birdsong, rustling trees and a flowing river. The trees in this area are remnants of an ancient world long gone, with many of the species deriving from woodlands first formed millions of years ago. If you’re lucky you may spot the endangered red squirrel or the native pine marten, which is often found exploring through the landscape. This stretch of water links two of Ireland’s most important rivers, the Shannon and the Erne, and was known as the River Grainne prior to being canalized in the 19th Century. This trail is a Sport Ireland accredited Trail.
The Geopark are members of Leave No Trace Ireland and we ask you please to adhere to their guiding principles. For more information please visit www.leavenotraceireland.org.
