Ennis River Fergus Walk
This walk takes you along the River Fergus in the vibrant town of Ennis in County Clare.
On the walk you will pass historic sites including old bridges and the ancient friary which was established in the middle of the 13th century. At the western end of the trail you can also enjoy a path on both sides of the river to create a loop walk.
It's a lovely and interesting town with more details on it's archirecture, history and culture next to the photographs below.
To continue your waterside walking in the area you could try the nearby Clareabbey River Walk. The trail takes you along another section of the River Fergus with fine views of the ancient ruined Augustinian monastery.
Ennis River Fergus Walk Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Ennis River Fergus Walk Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
Head north to pick up the Lough Avalla Farm Loop where there are some more pleasant waterside trails and glorious scenery.
Also to the north is the pretty Ballyalla Lake. There's a nice lakeside walk, picnic areas and kayaks to hire in this delightful scenic spot.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Ennis - River Fergus - Rowan Tree & The Cloister . The town lies on the River Fergus, north of where the river widens and enters the Shannon Estuary. Ennis is the largest town in County Clare, with a population of 27,923.
River Fergus Downstream Walk - Bank Place Bridge . The River Fergus runs through the middle of Ennis and is a well-known trout and salmon fishery. At one time, small sailing boats made their way up river from the Shannon and berthed in the centre of the town at Woodquay.
Rowan Tree Hostel, Cafe & Bar. Outdoor enthusiasts visiting the town and surrounding areas have a variety of walking trails to choose from. One of the key spots is John O’Sullivan Park, also known as Lees Road, which is set in 134 acres of rich, biodiverse woodland and parkland. Located just one kilometre from the town centre, this park offers a range of marked looped walks and woodland trails. Information boards in the car park provide details on the local flora and fauna, while the Active Trail features outdoor equipment designed for exercise activities suitable for all abilities.
For those looking for more leisurely strolls, Ballyalla Lake and Ballybeg Woods offer wonderful settings for a family outing, with serene paths perfect for a peaceful walk amidst nature.
Pedestrian Bridge, Rowan Tree Hostel & Cafe
Tower of Ennis Friary. The picturesque and historic market town has origins dating back to the 13th century. The town's rich history began when the Kings of Thomond invited the Franciscans to establish a settlement there. Today, Ennis retains its historic charm, with narrow lanes, historic bowways, and a variety of monuments, buildings, and waterways that reflect its heritage.
Mill Road Bridge with Channel, Cascading Pools and Dam
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Visitors to Ennis can enjoy a range of cultural and historical experiences. The Glór theatre is a cultural hub in the town, offering performances and events throughout the year. The Courthouse is another significant building, and the Ennis Walking Tour takes visitors on a journey through time, with stops at the 13th-century Ennis Friary and other notable heritage sites.
The Clare Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the history of County Clare. It presents over 6,000 years of history through authentic artefacts, colourful text panels, and engaging audio-visual presentations.
Beyond its cultural and historical offerings, Ennis is known as a centre of excellence for shopping. The town has won accolades such as 'Ireland’s Friendliest Town' and 'Ireland’s Tidiest Town.' Its cobbled streets and busy thoroughfares are lined with beautiful boutiques offering locally produced crafts and a range of fashion labels.
Ennis is widely recognised for its vibrant Irish music scene, often referred to as the traditional music capital of Ireland. The town's cobbled streets and lanes frequently resonate with the sounds of Irish music, which inspired the famous 'Siege of Ennis' polka. Many pubs and bars in Ennis host regular traditional music sessions, and the town is home to an annual Trad Festival that draws musicians and fans from around the world.
Ennis also serves as a gateway to the Shannon Estuary Way, a stunning 207km loop drive that winds through the changing landscapes and river vistas of counties Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, offering a spectacular journey through one of Ireland's most unspoiled regions.