Ireland’s historic Royal Canal, originally built in the late 1700s, is now home to the longest Greenway in the country, extending from Dublin to Longford. A haven for walkers and cyclists, this 146 kilometre pathway provides a wonderful opportunity to discover the hidden treasures to be found in Ireland’s Midlands. In this lavishly illustrated guidebook and travelogue, author Tom Dredge invites the reader to join him on his own personal Camino as he explores the entire route of the Royal Canal from the River Liffey to the River Shannon.Walking from city to countryside, through small villages and provincial towns, Tom meets local residents who enthusiastically share their experiences and tall tales of living by the Royal. He hears stories about the Ribbonmen planning civil disobedience and explores the exotically named Deep Sinking. Literary figures such as James Joyce, Dermot Bolger and Oliver Goldsmith feature prominently, as do colourful historic figures like The Hanging Judge of Cabra and The Wicked Earl of Belvedere House. A welcome respite from modern life, the Royal Canal offers ramblers peace and tranquility as they walk along the lush hedgerows, delighting in the flora and fauna on view. From primroses to yellow irises, bees, butterflies, damselflies and finches, plus the amusing acrobatics of the evasive red squirrel, all living in a finely balanced ecosystem. Rambling Along the Royal Canal provides an informative and entertaining step by step guide to the many wonders to be found on Ireland’s iconic waterway.
