- River Barrow (Graiguecullen/Barrow Track): The River Barrow, Ireland’s second-longest river, flows through Carlow and is a hidden gem for wild swimming, particularly near Graiguecullen. The river is surrounded by lush greenery and is a favorite for local walkers, cyclists, kayakers, and swimmers. The Graiguecullen area, close to Carlow town, offers accessible entry points with calm, clear waters suitable for swimming. Scenic riverbanks with trees and open fields, offering a peaceful, natural setting. Easily accessible via the Barrow Track, a popular walking path. Parking is available near Graiguecullen Bridge or Carlow town. Clear, freshwater swimming with moderate currents in places. Suitable for confident swimmers, but beginners should stick to shallow areas. Limited; nearby Carlow town has shops and cafes. No lifeguards or dedicated facilities. Check water quality and avoid swimming after heavy rain due to potential runoff. Currents can be strong, so swim with a buddy.
- River Barrow (Bagenalstown/Muine Bheag): In Bagenalstown, the River Barrow offers another excellent spot for wild swimming, with calm, deep pools and gentle banks. This area is known for its picturesque setting, with the town’s historic lock system and surrounding greenery adding charm. Charming views of the river, historic locks, and rolling countryside. Accessible via Bagenalstown’s riverside paths or near the lock. Parking is available in the town. Deep, clear pools ideal for a refreshing dip or longer swims. Suitable for intermediate to experienced swimmers due to depth and occasional currents. Limited; Bagenalstown has nearby cafes and shops. No lifeguards. Be cautious of water depth and currents. Check local water quality reports, as the river is monitored for safety. 3. River Barrow (Clashganny Lock): Located near Borris, Clashganny Lock is a tranquil spot along the River Barrow with a lock system that creates calm, deep pools perfect for swimming. The surrounding area is lush and secluded, offering a peaceful escape. Secluded, wooded surroundings with views of the lock and gentle river flow. Reached via the Barrow Way walking trail or local roads near Borris. Limited parking is available near the lock. Deep, calm waters ideal for confident swimmers. The lock area provides easy entry points. Very limited; bring your own supplies. No lifeguards. Watch for slippery banks and check for water quality, as rural runoff can affect the river. Swim with caution due to depth.
- The River Barrow can have strong currents, especially after rain, and water quality can vary due to agricultural runoff. Check local water quality reports (monitored by Carlow County Council) and avoid swimming alone. Always inform someone of your plans.
- Gear: Bring water shoes to protect against rocky or muddy riverbeds, a towel, and a changing robe for warmth. A tow float is recommended for visibility and safety.
- Environmental Respect: Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the river’s ecosystem. Stick to paths to avoid damaging vegetation and avoid littering. Amenities are minimal at most sites, so bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Carlow town or Bagenalstown offer nearby cafes for post-swim refreshments.
- Experience Level: The River Barrow is best suited for confident swimmers due to its depth and occasional currents. Beginners should stick to shallow, calm areas and swim with experienced companions.
- Local Input: Carlow County Council encourages locals to identify popular swimming spots for official designation to improve safety and monitoring. This suggests a growing interest in wild swimming, but formal facilities are limited.
County Carlow:
Ireland’s County Carlow combines historic landmarks with serene landscapes, with the Carlow Castle ruins and the nearby Altamont Gardens offering a mix of medieval and botanical appeal. The Barrow Way provides scenic riverside walks, while the Brownshill Dolmen, a prehistoric portal tomb, adds ancient history. Carlow is Ireland’s second smallest county by size (896 square km) and third smallest by population (61,968). Population peaked at 86,228 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 33,342 in 1961.In terms of hospitality, Carlow is Ireland’s 23rd most visited tourist county with around 68,000 international visitors per year.
Introduction – Adventure – Anthem – Archaeology – Attractions – Awards – Birdwatching – Camping – Castles – Churches – Contact list – Cycling – Dining – Equestrian – Festivals – Fishing – Folklore – Gardens – Golf – Graveyards – Happening – Haunted – Highest – Hiking – History – Holy Wells – Hotels – Hotels8 – Instagrammable – Itineraries – Largest town – Luxury – MICE – Movies – Musicians – Name – New – Novelists – Off the beaten track – Poets – Pubs – Quotes – Random Facts – Restaurant Awards – Sacred Places – Saints – Spas – Sports – Sunsets– Sustainable – Things to do – Towns – Video – Villages – Walking – Wanderlist – Weddings – Wild swimming – Writers – 1837– 1846 – 1852 – 1909 – 1955 – 1980 –
Wild swimming
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
