Walking

Birr is a walkers paradise whether it is the local Heritage Town Trail or the further Slieveblooms, there is nothing stopping you.
Along the Camcor river's edge, one can walk for over 1.5km along the Birr River Walk. Starting or Finishing at The Malting's in Castle Street, the walk takes one along a route that includes a stunning river boardwalk over the Camcor River at Birr Technology Centre to the Weir at Bridge Street and across into Camcor Park to continue to walk towards Elmgrove Bridge. Most of this route is accessible to wheelchairs, buggies and bicycles.

The Slieveblooms lie 12kms away from the town in the village of Kinnitty and are a must see, not only are the mountains an absolute wonder but along the way to the mountains there is an array of stories to be told of the local land marks and beautiful old houses. Once there, there are a number of different long and short walks that can be taken. Within the Mountains and hills there are magical places that can be visited mainly along the rivers and streams, with a number of beautiful hidden waterfalls, wild plants and animals. The Slieveblooms has a selection of Eco and Lopped Walks which make the most of the beautiful scenery.

Every year there is a storytelling festival in the Slievebloom Mountains which is very well organized, along with each set walk; there is a local historian who talks you through each amazing aspect of the trail. At night there are storytellers in the local pubs speaking of their experiences and telling stories of the past. Along with the Craic and Ceol this festival is a true experience.

While In Birr you can also take the enjoyable Historic Walking Tour that brings you around the Georgian Heritage Town at your pleasure. The Walk includes the Famine Workhouse, John’s Mall, Book of Birr, Ancient Graveyard, Crotty’s Church St Brendan’s Park, Oxmantown Mall, John’s Hall and Birr Castle Demesne & Historic Science Centre.

Lough Boora Parklands is a drive away from Birr and is a nature lover’s dream with protected bird species and Sculpture in the Parklands and is said to probably be one of Offaly’s best kept secret.
There are also a selection of long distance walks in the area taking in such tourist attractions as Lough Boora, Clonmacnoise and the Grand Canal.

For more information on Walking contact Destination Birr