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🚴Old Rail Trail Greenway
The Old Rail Trail Greenway is a 40km off-road walking and cycling trail that follows the route of a disused railway line from Mullingar to Athlone in County Westmeath, Ireland. It offers a flat, traffic-free surface ideal for families with children of all ages, including those in buggies or learning to cycle. The trail passes through scenic countryside, alongside lakes, and features old railway tunnels, bridges, and stations.
- Highlights: Kids will enjoy spotting wildlife, exploring the tunnels, and stopping at picnic areas. The trail is dotted with rest points, playgrounds (e.g., in Moate and Athlone), and family-friendly cafes.
- Facilities: Free parking at both ends (Mullingar and Athlone) and several intermediate points. Public toilets available at the start and some stops. Bike hire is available in Mullingar and Athlone.
- Practical tips: No motorised vehicles; bring snacks and water as facilities can be limited in the middle sections. The entire route takes 2-4 hours to cycle or 5-7 hours to walk, but families can do shorter stretches.
This greenway is a wonderful outdoor adventure for families who enjoy gentle exercise in nature.
Travel tips
Plan a shorter section on your first visit
The full 40km trail takes 5-7 hours to walk or 2-4 hours to cycle. Start with a manageable section—families often do 5-10km and still have a great day.
Pack plenty of snacks and water
Facilities are limited in the middle sections of the trail. Bring more supplies than you think you'll need, especially for longer stretches between stops.
The flat surface is perfect for buggies and learning cyclists
The off-road, traffic-free surface is ideal for pushchairs and children learning to ride bikes. No steep hills to worry about.
Explore the old railway tunnels and bridges
Kids love walking through the restored tunnels and crossing historic bridges. These are highlights of the route and worth building time in to explore.
Free parking at Mullingar and Athlone
Both ends have free car parks, plus several intermediate parking points. You can do one-way walks and use local shuttle services or park at both ends.
The trail suits all ages from toddlers upwards
Whether you push a buggy, walk slowly with toddlers, or cycle, the traffic-free, flat route is genuinely accessible for families with very young children.
Check toilet locations before you start
Public toilets are available at the start and some stops, but not regularly throughout. Plan your route around known facilities, especially with younger children.
Hire bikes in Mullingar or Athlone
If you don't have bikes, hire them at either end. Flat terrain makes it accessible for children of varying cycling abilities.
Look out for wildlife and nature spotting
The route passes lakes and countryside, so bring binoculars or a wildlife guide. Children often enjoy spotting birds and other animals along the way.
Visit the playgrounds in Moate and Athlone
Take breaks at the playgrounds along the route to let children burn off energy. They're good stopping points to break up a longer walk or cycle.
The trail is weather-dependent
This is an outdoor trail with little shelter. Check the forecast and bring waterproofs or umbrellas if rain is expected, especially for the middle sections.
Wear sensible footwear and sun protection
The surface is off-road and flat, but sturdy shoes or trainers are best. On sunny days, apply sunscreen and bring hats, as there's limited shade.
Family-friendly cafes are dotted along the route
Several stops have cafes where you can grab drinks and snacks. Worth checking which ones are open before you visit, especially on quieter days.
Do a one-way walk and use local transport back
If walking the full distance seems too much, consider a one-way walk and arrange a lift or local shuttle service back to your car.
No motorised vehicles allowed
The trail is completely traffic-free, which makes it very safe for children and beginners. No need to worry about cars or motorbikes.
Bring a change of clothes for muddy days
After rain, the off-road surface can be muddy. Consider spare trousers and socks, especially if you have younger children.
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Nearby places
Ballymahon Town Park
8.1 miA well-maintained public park in the heart of Ballymahon, offering a peaceful green space for families. The park features a modern playground with equipment for toddlers and older children, including swings, slides, and climbing frames. There are also well-kept lawns, mature trees, and pathways ideal for prams or a gentle stroll. Benches are scattered throughout for parents to relax while kids play. The park is a popular spot for community events and often hosts outdoor activities. While there are no dedicated eating facilities, the town centre with cafes and shops is just a short walk away. Toilets may be available at nearby public facilities but not within the park itself. Parking is easy along the adjacent streets. - Highlights: Playground for various ages, open green space, peaceful setting. - Facilities: Benches, paths, limited parking. - Tips: Bring snacks and drinks; no on-site cafe. Combine with a visit to Ballymahon's shops or a walk along the Royal Canal.
Lough Ennell
10.1 miA peaceful lake surrounded by green fields and woodland, offering a lovely family day out. The Lough Ennell Amenity Area features a well-maintained playground, picnic tables, and a car park. Families can enjoy walking and cycling along the lake shore, spot swans and other waterfowl, or try fishing (permit required). The shallow shoreline is safe for paddling, but no lifeguards. There are no cafes on site, so bring your own snacks. Suitable for all ages, especially toddlers and school-age children who love outdoor play and nature.
Clara Bog Nature Reserve
10.7 miClara Bog is one of the best examples of a raised bog in Ireland, offering a unique outdoor experience for families. The reserve features a 1.5km wooden boardwalk trail suitable for buggies and wheelchairs, leading to a viewing tower with panoramic views over the bog. Kids can spot dragonflies, butterflies, and sundew plants. - Free entry and parking - Flat, accessible boardwalk (approx. 30-45 min walk) - Visitor centre with toilets (limited opening, check ahead) - No café – bring snacks and water - Best for ages 3+ (younger kids can be carried in a carrier) - Open year-round during daylight hours Practical tip: The bog can be damp, so wear waterproof shoes and bring insect repellent in summer.
Belvedere House and Gardens
12.0 miBelvedere House and Gardens is a stunning 18th-century country estate set in 160 acres of parkland near Mullingar, County Westmeath. Families can explore the grand house, the restored Victorian Walled Garden, and the beautiful lakeside grounds. Highlights for kids include: - A large adventure playground with slides, swings, and climbing frames - The Fairy Trail, a magical walk through the woods with fairy doors and sculptures - Pedal boats and rowing boats on the lake (seasonal) - The Maze and the Bat Walk (seasonal events) - Baby changing facilities and a family-friendly café serving children's meals. Practical tips: The parkland is pushchair-friendly, but some woodland paths may be muddy. Parking is free. Dogs on leads allowed in the park but not in the house or walled garden. Wellies recommended after rain.