Discovering the River Shannon

Throughout history, the River Shannon has been of immense importance for trade, defence and transport. From the Vikings in the 9th and 10th centuries, using it to sail inland and raid major monastic sites, while also establishing towns and cities such as Limerick, which still stands as a major hub to this day.

In the 17th century, it formed part of the border during the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland. During this time, Irish Catholic landowners were sent “To Hell or to Connacht” – meaning they needed to move to the west of the river, or to hell.

In more modern history, the Shannon continued to serve as a key trade and transport route, leading to large towns like Athlone developing along its shores. As well as being harnessed for electricity since the 1920s, with the development of the Shannon hydroelectric scheme culminating in the Ardnacrusha Power Plant. This Power Plant is still in operation today, with some of its original infrastructure in use.

Today, travelling along the River Shannon offers a connection between the past and present. It allows us to slow down and soak in the deep-rooted history of its waters. If you’d like to delve deeper into Ireland’s past, click below to enjoy an overview of Irish history.

History of Ireland

Surface Area: 14 square miles

The first of the Shannon’s great lakes, Lough Allen (Loch Aillionn), lies mainly in County Leitrim, with a smaller portion located in County Roscommon. These regions are peaceful and rural, making them the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Surrounded by soft green hills, quiet forests and roads, Lough Allen feels untamed and remote.

Beneath this tranquil surface lies a strong industrial past. The surrounding hills were once shaped by coal and iron mining, particularly around nearby Arigna, where generations of families worked deep underground. Today, this mining heritage adds another layer to the landscape, giving visitors a deeper sense of how people once worked and lived here.

Visiting Lough Allen is perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy a touch of wildness—whether walking along its shores, paddling its calm waters or simply taking in the place’s stillness.

Surface Area: 50 square miles

The largest of the Shannon’s lakes, Lough Derg (Loch Deirgeirt), stretches from Portumna in the north to Killaloe in the south, touching three counties—Galway, Clare and Tipperary.

For those seeking an immersion in Ireland’s ancient history, Lough Derg is certainly worth a visit. It is a key site of the legendary High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, who was born near its shores in the 10th century. From this stronghold on the Shannon, Brian rose to power and united much of the island under his rule, earning a reputation as both a warrior and a statesman.

Today, the harbour town of Killaloe proudly celebrates its connection to Brian Boru, and standing along the shores of Lough Derg, it is easy to imagine the influence this great king once held over the waterways and landscapes of the Shannon.

Nowadays, Lough Derg is a popular section of the Shannon for water-sports enthusiasts, but it also offers plenty for walkers and food lovers. From cute harbour towns to secret islands, Lough Derg gives visitors a chance to slow down and soak in the atmosphere.