Skibbereen River Walk

0.9 miles (1.5 km)

This walk visits the town of Skibbereen in County Cork.
Here you can enjoy a pleasant stroll along the River Ilen and enjoy some fine views of the surrounding countryside.
A walk around Skibbereen offers a peaceful yet thought-provoking journey through one of West Cork’s most historically significant towns. The River Ilen flows gently through the centre, providing a natural focal point and a pleasant route for a riverside stroll. Its banks are lined with mature trees and stone walls, with the occasional heron or otter spotted near the water.
Paths run past the Skibbereen Heritage Centre, housed in the restored Old Gasworks Building. The centre presents exhibitions on the Great Irish Famine, including the town’s own experience, and features information on the nearby marine lake of Lough Hyne.
From here, a short walk leads to Abbeystrewry Cemetery, where mass graves contain the remains of thousands who died during the famine. The quiet setting and simple memorials offer a stark contrast to the vibrant town centre, encouraging reflection on the hardship endured during the mid-19th century.
Back in the heart of Skibbereen, historic buildings such as the Town Hall and Courthouse mark the civic centre. The Courthouse hosted relief committee meetings during the famine, while the Town Hall has long served as a community hub. The streets nearby are lined with traditional shopfronts, caf�s, and bookshops.
To continue your walking around Skibbereen you could visit the pretty harbour in the delightful village of Glandore, the ancient Drombeg Stone Circle or enjoy more fine waterside walking at Lough Hyne.
Please scroll down for the full list of walks near and around Skibbereen. The detailed maps below also show a range of footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths in the area.