Royal Canal Dublin
A tranquil greenway offering a peaceful escape through Dublin's urban landscape, perfect for walks and cycles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Royal Canal Dublin
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil greenway offering a peaceful escape through Dublin's urban landscape, perfect for walks and cycles.
"Offers a refreshing waterside perspective of Dublin, away from the usual tourist crowds."
🚲 Cycle with Caution
Some paths are unpaved; consider a hybrid or mountain bike. Check for closures near Croke Park.
☀️ Daylight Adventures
For solo female travelers, daytime cycling is recommended for a safer and more comfortable experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Phibsborough to Castleknock Stretch
Royal Canal Greenway
Enjoy a scenic, mostly unpaved path offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Perfect for a relaxed cycle or walk.

Drumcondra to Maynooth Section
Royal Canal Greenway
A popular route for cyclists, though be aware of potential closures and unpaved sections, especially closer to Leixlip.

Newcomen Bridge to Dorset Street
Royal Canal Greenway
Recently opened sections offer a smoother experience, with new pedestrian lights enhancing accessibility.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Greenway Pace
Safety & Daylight Cycling
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Cycle with Caution
Some paths are unpaved; consider a hybrid or mountain bike. Check for closures near Croke Park.
☀️ Daylight Adventures
For solo female travelers, daytime cycling is recommended for a safer and more comfortable experience.
🗺️ Check Path Status
Sections can be closed for works. Stay updated on the latest Greenway openings and progress.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for walking or cycling, especially on unpaved or dirt track sections.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Cycle with Caution
Some paths are unpaved; consider a hybrid or mountain bike. Check for closures near Croke Park.
☀️ Daylight Adventures
For solo female travelers, daytime cycling is recommended for a safer and more comfortable experience.
🗺️ Check Path Status
Sections can be closed for works. Stay updated on the latest Greenway openings and progress.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for walking or cycling, especially on unpaved or dirt track sections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Royal Canal Greenway for its peaceful atmosphere and escape from the city bustle, offering a pleasant route for walks and cycles. However, the unpaved and sometimes rough terrain on certain sections can be a drawback for cyclists, and some users advise caution regarding safety after dark.
"The Grand Canal (Irish: An Chanáil Mhór) is the southernmost of a pair of canals that connect Dublin, in the east of Ireland, with the River Shannon in the west, via Tullamore and a number of other villages and towns, the two canals nearly encircling Dublin's inner city. Its sister canal on the Northside of Dublin is the Royal Canal."
Ngo Hai Anh
"Wonderful walk starting in Dublin and all the way down to River Shannon. Parts of the way suitable for bikes.
Don't forget to grab a camera as you'll have a chance to encounter many different water birds on the way."
Daniel Nowak
"By bike from Maynooth to Leixlip or to Kilcock very nice way!"
Martina Thaiszová
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Royal Canal Greenway from various points in Dublin. Popular starting points include Phibsborough, Drumcondra, and Glasnevin. Public transport like buses can get you close to these access points.
Yes, many sections are accessible via Dublin Bus routes. For longer stretches towards Maynooth, consider train services to stations like Clonsilla or Maynooth and then cycling back or forth.
The Greenway extends from Dublin to Maynooth. However, be aware that some sections, particularly between Coolmine and Castleknock, are not paved and can be challenging for cycling.
Parking availability varies by access point. Some areas might have limited street parking, while others near train stations may offer more options. It's best to check local information for your chosen starting point.
From Dublin Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to the city center and then access the canal. Taxis from the airport to the city center are available but can be costly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Royal Canal Greenway is a public amenity and is free to access for walking and cycling.
The Greenway is generally accessible at all times, though it's advisable to use it during daylight hours for safety and visibility, especially on unpaved sections.
There is no entrance fee for the Royal Canal Greenway. It's a public path for everyone to enjoy.
No special passes or permits are required for cycling on the Royal Canal Greenway. It's open to the public for recreational use.
Yes, the Greenway is suitable for group activities, whether walking or cycling. Just be mindful of other users and the path conditions.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The surface varies. Some sections are paved and smooth, ideal for cycling, while others, particularly further from the city center, are unpaved, dirt tracks, or gravel, which can be challenging for bikes.
It is suitable for cycling, but with caveats. The paved sections are great, but unpaved and rougher parts require a more robust bike and can be slow going.
While many feel safe, some solo female cyclists have reported encountering 'dodgy people' on the Dublin stretch, especially after dark. Daytime cycling is generally recommended for peace of mind.
Facilities are limited, especially on the less developed sections. It's advisable to use facilities before you start and carry water and snacks. Some pubs or cafes might be found near access points in towns like Maynooth.
You'll find a mix of urban canal views, green spaces, bridges, and locks. It offers a peaceful, waterside perspective of Dublin and its surroundings, away from the main tourist crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for picturesque bridges, reflections in the water, canal locks, and the interplay of urban and natural landscapes. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the atmosphere.
Yes, it offers a unique perspective of Dublin. The changing light on the water and the historic canal structures provide ample photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities.
While not directly featuring major landmarks, the canal offers views of Dublin's skyline and bridges, providing a different, more serene photographic angle of the city.
Yes, the historic locks and old bridges along the canal are excellent subjects for photography, showcasing the engineering and history of this waterway.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting your family adventure from accessible points like Phibsborough or Drumcondra. The relatively flat terrain and scenic views provide an engaging experience for kids without being overly strenuous. It's a great way to introduce them to the outdoors and the history of Dublin's waterways.
🚴♀️ Solo Female Travelers
Opt for paved sections or areas known to be busier if you have concerns. Carrying a fully charged phone and letting someone know your route and expected return time are also sensible precautions. The Greenway is beautiful, and with a little planning, it can be enjoyed safely.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and water is a great way to save money. You can enjoy hours of exploration without spending a penny, making it a perfect activity for those looking to experience Dublin affordably.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Royal Canal Greenway
Cyclists planning a longer journey should be prepared for these varying conditions. It's recommended to use a hybrid or mountain bike for better comfort and control on the unpaved sections. Always check for any ongoing works or temporary closures, as these can disrupt the continuity of the route. For example, works near Croke Park have caused breaks in the path previously. Despite these challenges, many find the journey rewarding, offering a unique perspective of Dublin and its surroundings.
When cycling, especially during winter months when daylight is limited, consider the safety aspect. While many users report no issues, some solo female cyclists have noted seeing 'dodgy people' on the Dublin stretch after dark. Therefore, sticking to daylight hours is advisable for a more secure and pleasant cycling experience.
Walking and Exploring the Royal Canal
Key areas to explore on foot include the sections around Phibsborough and Glasnevin, which offer pleasant walks with good access. As you venture further out, the landscape becomes more rural, with charming bridges and locks adding to the charm. The path is generally well-defined, though on unpaved sections, sturdy footwear is recommended. It's a great way to discover hidden corners of Dublin and enjoy a dose of nature.
Remember that facilities like restrooms and cafes are sparse along the Greenway itself. It's wise to start your walk with water and snacks, especially if you plan a longer excursion. The canal is a living waterway, and observing its locks in operation or the boats passing by can be a highlight of the walk.
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