River Shannon

The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland by a great distance. The River also provides a natural border between the West of Ireland (West of the Shannon) and the rest of Ireland. The river rises from the Shannon Pot in County Cavan, and enters the Atlantic Ocean through the Shannon Estuary. In total the river is 386km long and has over 1500 km of navigable river.

The point at which the river meets the sea is at Limerick. The Shannon makes its way through the centre of Limerick and provides scenic views from the quays that run alongside. The flow of the river through the city is controlled by the Ardnacrusha hydroelectric plant and the locks in the city itself. The upshot of this is a peaceful section of river that is ideal for competitive rowing and training.

There are many settlements along the river, and many of them developed as bridging towns. Among the largest settlements along the river are (North to South): Leitrim, Carrick-on-Shannon, Roosky, Athlone, Shannonbridge, Banagher, Portumna, Killaloe/Ballina, Limerick and Shannon Airport.

The Shannon is a major source of tourism to the area. Apart from water sports and fishing, the Shannon is the best river in Europe for pleasure cruising. This pastime is a major attraction to our European neighbours, particularly the Germans. It is possible to travel from the Lower Lough Erne to Killaloe/Ballina.

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