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Tonight’s episode of Tracks and Trails follows musician Jack Lukeman and presenter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin along the Barrow Blueway, tracing a peaceful 11.5km stretch from Athy to Vicarstown. The route mixes easy, well‑surfaced towpaths with glimpses of canal heritage and riverside wildlife, making it an accessible outing for many readers.
The walk at a glance
Distance: 11.5km. The route starts in The People’s Park in Athy and finishes in Vicarstown, running largely along a flat canal towpath.
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Terrain: Well‑surfaced riverside paths and towpath; generally flat and suitable for both walking and cycling. Difficulty: Easy. Estimated time: 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on pace and stops.
Practical tips for visitors
The Barrow Blueway is waymarked — follow the blue markers for navigation. More detailed route information is available from Waterways Ireland at waterwaysireland.org.
Weather can change quickly, so bring waterproofs as a precaution. While the path is maintained year‑round, some sections can become muddy after heavy rain.
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
- Water and snacks
- A camera for riverside views
- Cycle if you want an easy return option
Because this is a linear route, plan your return in advance. You can arrange transport from Vicarstown or cycle the route there and back.
Why the Barrow Blueway matters
The River Barrow is one of Ireland’s famed Three Sisters and is recognised as among the oldest navigable waterways in Europe. The Barrow Navigation extends for more than 100km, with towpaths that offer quiet, scenic stretches ideal for leisurely exploration.
The Athy–Vicarstown section showcases unspoilt riverside landscape alongside historical features such as locks and traditional lock‑keeper cottages. It is one segment of Ireland’s broader blueway network, which promotes outdoor recreation on rivers, lakes and canals.
Where to find more
Further local information is available from Visit Kildare. The episode airs on RTÉ One on Fridays at 8:30pm and previous episodes can be streamed on RTÉ Player; viewers outside Ireland can also find episodes on YouTube.
