The Old Rail Trail greenway in the heart of Ireland offers a cycle that’s rich in history, scenic beauty, and local charm. Stretching for approximately 42 km, this dedicated path for cyclists and walkers follows the route of the historic Midlands Great Western Railway, connecting the bustling town of Mullingar with the Shannonside town of Athlone. It’s a fantastic spin, easily accessible, and an easy ride on a mostly flat route.
Much of it runs along by the Royal Canal Greenway and its possible to incorporate sections of both into one ride.
A Journey through Railway History
As is often the case in Ireland, the greenway runs along an old disused railway route. The Midlands Great Western Railway once served as a vital link between Dublin, Mullingar, and Athlone, before being decommissioned. Today, the disused railway line has been beautifully repurposed, transforming into a safe, traffic-free trail that meanders through the heart of the Irish midlands. As you cycle along, you’ll pass under restored stone arched bridges and past old station houses. The project is a key part of the larger vision for a coast-to-coast greenway, connecting Dublin to Galway, further cementing its importance as a cornerstone of Ireland’s active travel network.
The Towns and Points of Interest
If you’re starting from Mullingar you can hop on the greenway at the Newbrook Roundabout where there is a large carpark. Before you set off, consider a visit to Mullingar’s historic town center, home to the Cathedral of Christ the King and the statue of local legend Joe Dolan. The trail offers links with the Royal Canal Greenway, providing another excellent route to explore. The journey westward from Mullingar is a peaceful, rural affair, with the path carved through fertile farmland and sheltered by trees.
The route passes near the village of Castletown Geoghegan, offering a quiet detour. You’ll encounter the restored Castletown Station, a lovely reminder of the trail’s railway heritage. A popular stopping point is Moate, a thriving town that offers a great midway point for a break. Moate is also where you’ll find the Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park, a fantastic spot with a café, playground, and heritage park that’s perfect for families. The final stretch takes you to Athlone, where this section of the greenway concludes.. Here, the magnificent Athlone Castle and the contemporary Luan Gallery are must-see attractions if you’re heading into town.
There are a number of starting points along the route with car parking and bike hire available. From the Athlone end the greenway starts near the Athlone Castle area in Athlone, easily accessible from the town centre.
Trail Surface
One of the most appealing aspects of the Old Rail Trail is its accessibility. The path is a purpose-built, off-road trail with a smooth, sealed tarmac surface throughout its entire length. This makes it suitable for all types of bikes, from road bikes to hybrids and mountain bikes. The route is mostly flat, with only gentle slopes, earning it an “easy” grade. It’s a great option for cyclists of all ages and fitness levels, including families with young children. While there are a few public road crossings, they are well-marked, and cyclists should always exercise caution.
Coffee Stops and Refreshments
Of course a good cycle is always better with a great coffee stop, and the Old Rail Trail doesn’t disappoint, though many of these require a detour off the actual trail into a local town. At either end in Mullingar and Athlone, you’ll find a wide variety of cafés, restaurants, and pubs to fuel up before or after your ride. However, a real treat on the trail itself is Jack’s Stop in Streamstown. Located in a beautifully restored station house, it’s a popular hub for cyclists, walkers, and locals alike, offering delicious food and coffee right on the greenway. The presence of a playground here also makes it an ideal spot for families to take a break.
Boosting Local Tourism
The creation of the Old Rail Trail has had a significant positive impact on local tourism. The trail encourages people to explore the lesser-known parts of Westmeath, providing a boost to local businesses in the towns and villages it passes through. Bike hire companies have sprung up, and cafés and accommodation providers have seen an increase in business.