A Magical Christmas in Carrick-on-Shannon: Family Fun and Festive Cheer

Carrick-on-Shannon, with its picturesque riverside setting and warm community spirit, is the perfect destination for a family holiday during the festive season. Whether you’re coming home for Christmas or visiting the town for a special event or just for a break over the festivities, Carrick has something for everyone. And when you stay with us here at Carrick Plaza Suites you'll be perfectly located to make the best of all that Carrick and the region has to offer!   Here’s just some of the festive fun that awaits you in the run up to Christmas!   If you have little people in your life, you really should check out one of the truly unique Santa Experiences nearby:   Victorian Christmas Experience at Strokestown Park Step back in time and immerse yourself in the festive charm of the Victorian Christmas Experience at Strokestown Park.   What to Expect Explore this great mansion which has been lovingly decorated for Christmas. The kids will enjoy meeting Santa’s elves and their reindeer who are catching up on their sleep before the big night. They get to help Mrs. Clause to bake some Christmas treats and then of course, they will meet Santa himself!   Dates and Bookings Friday 20th, Sat 21st and Sun 22nd.   Booking To book, go to https://strokestownpark.rezgo.com/details/133713/christmas-at-strokestown-the-victorian-christmas-experience?show_standard=on   The Santa Experience at Arigna Mining Experience A visit with Santa like no other - visit the Arigna Mining Experience for their special Santa Experience.   What to ExpectMeet Santa in a magical underground grotto, where twinkling lights and festive music bring the old coal mine to life. There will be a magician and puppets to keep you intrigued all the way through! The grotto is located in an old disused mine, so it’s not like anything you have seen before!    Insider Tip Dress warmly—it’s chilly underground!   Booking To book, go to https://www.arignaminingexperience.ie/santas-underground-grotto-event-2024   Drumhierny Santa Experience Set in a wooded wonderland at Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway, just a few minutes drive away, is yet another magical Santa Experience.   What to Expect The woodland estate is filled with twinkling lights and seasonal magic for you to enjoy as you make your way along the wooded trails en route to Santa's Christmas Lodge. Afterwards you can warm yourself in our cozy lodge with a warm hot chocolate and decorate your own Christmas Decorations with the help of Santa's Elves.   Dates and Bookings Events at Drumhierny take place on Saturday 7th, Sunday 8th, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th of December 2024, booking on Tickets.ie     Visit Santa at The Market Yard What to Expect Santa will be keeping cosy and warm in his house in the Market Yard, right in the heart of Carrick on Shannon. The Market Yard is going to be a hive of activity over the festive weekends with Santa alongside food and craft stalls, amusements and face painting. And of course, the town’s festive lights create a magical backdrop for these family-friendly activities.   Booking Santa will be visiting the Market Yard on Sat 14th, Sun15th, Sat 21st and Sun 22nd. Tickets are €17 and can be booked in advance on Eventbrite.ie Other Festive Activities If you’re looking to add more to  your holiday itinerary, Carrick-on-Shannon and the surrounding areas offer plenty of other Christmas activities:   The Dock Christmas Market The Craft West Collective will have a fabulous Craft Market at The Dock this Christmas on the 13th and 14th of December. For more information see: https://www.thedock.ie/whats-on/artisan-christmas-market   Leitrim Design House Visit this local gem for unique, handcrafted Irish gifts, perfect for last-minute Christmas shopping. Address & opening hours at https://leitrimdesignhouse.ie/   'Tinsel and Tiaras' Concert A treat not to be missed if you love a fairytale story sing-along! The perfect Christmas treat for the smallies, the Tinsel & Tiaras Concert is at The Bush Hotel, with two shows on December 15th. Booking from https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/tinsel-tiara-concert-tickets-1079236628809     So, whether it’s stepping into the past at Strokestown House, visiting Santa underground, or exploring the wintery beauty of the Shannon region, Carrick-on-Shannon has everything you need for an unforgettable Christmas break. And Carrick Plaza Suites has hotel-style accommodation that caters for all family and group sizes.

Spooktacular Mid Term Breaks

Mid-Term Breaks close to the Birthplace of Halloween - if you dare! As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, Carrick-on-Shannon becomes an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a break over the October mid-term break. With plenty of outdoor activities for all to enjoy, here are some suggestions to make the most of your family trip, including a spooky adventure to Rathcroghan, the birthplace of Halloween.   A Day Trip to Rathcroghan: The Birthplace of Halloween No Halloween-themed trip would be complete without a visit to Rathcroghan, an ancient and mystical site, a 25 minute drive from Carrick-on-Shannon. This will be a great one for the kids to impress their pals with, when they are back to school!   Known as the birthplace of Halloween, Rathcroghan (Ráth Cruachan) is a significant archaeological site, strongly associated with Irish mythology. If you think this might be fun, check out their website here https://www.rathcroghan.ie/tours-events/halloween-at-rathcroghan/ or call theVisitor Centre at (071) 963 9268.   Exploring Rathcroghan Once the ancient royal seat of Connacht and featuring prominently in Irish legends, particularly the epic tale of Queen Medb and the Táin Bó Cúailnge (Cattle Raid of Cooley), the site at Rathcroghan includes over 240 identified archaeological sites, including ring forts, burial mounds, and standing stones.   Highlights of your visit:   Oweynagat (Cave of the Cats): The "Gateway to the Otherworld," this cave is believed to be the entrance to the realm of the spirits and a key location in the origins of Halloween. According to legend, it was from this cave that mythical creatures and spirits would emerge at Halloween.   Rathcroghan Mound: Thought to be the ancient inauguration site of the Connacht kings and with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, this is the focal point for understanding the region's historical significance.   Visitor Centre: The Rathcroghan Visitor Centre provides educational exhibits, guided tours, and interactive displays bringing the history and mythology to life. The centre provides an excellent starting point for families to learn about the significance of Samhain and its transformation into Halloween, as we know it now.   Link to Halloween Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival that marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, is the precursor to modern Halloween. Celebrated on October 31st, it was believed that the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest, allowing spirits to cross over into the mortal world. Many traditions associated with Samhain, such as wearing costumes and lighting bonfires, have evolved into the Halloween customs we know today.   An exciting addition to the Rathcroghan story is the recent inclusion on the World Heritage Tentative List as part of the Royal Sites of Ireland complex. Perhaps in time to come Rathcroghan will be listed as a World Heritage site, which is very exciting indeed for the region.   Lough Key Forest Park Just a short drive away, this park offers a range of exciting activities including treetop walks, zip-lining, and hours of walking along a choice of beautiful nature trails. A woodland walk at this time of the year is perfect for clearing the cobwebs, as the low autumn sun casts soft, golden light through the trees. It’s quieter here at this time, and the kids can keep an eye out for wildlife, including the red squirrel gathering the last of the acorns before winter fully settles in. Deer are common in the area, and you may be lucky to witness a brief appearance!   Lough Spoo-Key Each year the annual Spooktacular Halloween fest takes place at Lough Spoo-Key. This year the festival will run from Thursday 28th October until Sunday 3rd November. With plenty of indoor and outdoor Halloween activities including face-painting, fancy dress disco, puppet shows, halloween treasure trail and for the older kids (10yrs+) - the spine-chilling Tunnels of Terror (booking required)!!!   It promises to be lots of fun! More details can be found on Lough key Forest and Activity Park social media, booking may be required, so check it out today! https://www.facebook.com/loughkeyforestpark   Walking Trails The walking trails in Lough Key are well marked with lots to see as you stroll through this beautifully maintained park. You may spot what remains of Rockingham House; just the footprint is visible now and dotted around the park, are remnants of the House such as segments of the columns that once held up the front portico.The history of this once magnificent house adds a sense of adventure for families, especially for children with vivid imaginations. There are bog walks, an ancient fairy bridge, an ice house, magnificent giant trees and a castle on an island!!   During the walk, you'll come across giant trees, some that you can enter and explore - a favourite choice for a game of ‘hide-and-go-seek’ with the smallies. There are openings in the canopy of trees that provide stunning views of Lough Key itself which at this time of the year is often cloaked in morning mist, giving it a mysterious appearance.   Top Tips for the Walk: Dress warmly: Layers are key, as it can get chilly in the winter months. Footwear: Waterproof boots are recommended, as the trails may be damp or slightly muddy after rainfall or frost. Binoculars: Handy for spotting birds or perhaps a Ghost or Ghoul!!   Enjoy a Hauntingly Good Getaway this October Mid Term. Carrick on Shannon is easy to get to by road or rail, Carrick Plaza Suites offers free private parking to our guests and you'll find us just off the N4 right across from the River Shannon, in the heart of town.   And don't forget - Best rates guaranteed when you book direct!

Carrick-on-Shannon: the Perfect Basecamp for Walking and Hiking Enthusiasts!

Welcome to Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim’s largest town, the perfect destination for a break away from the old routine. Located at the gateway to the northwest, Carrick is a thriving town which offers so much to our visitors.  And for those of you who love the outdoors, Carrick offers close access to some of the finest and undiscovered landscapes in the country – by water and by land. Under-explored by the masses Leitrim and neighbouring Roscommon, which is literally across the bridge, are yours to explore and Carrick Plaza Suites couldn’t be better located for your basecamp!    In this blog we focus on terra firma. We have compiled a list of notable hiking trails, ranging from gentle walks to moderately challenging routes, all within a short drive from your accommodation here at Carrick Plaza Suites.    You might also find this interesting - a guide by Leitrim Tourism containing a sample of the variety of walks available in Leitrim, suitable for all levels of fitness, while a full list of walks is also available on the Leitrim Tourism website.   Sheemore Hill Trail Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Approximately 8.7km and 12 minutes by car Trail Length: 1.9km Difficulty: Easy to Moderate   With it so nearby, it would be a shame to miss the Sheemore Hill trail. This 1.9 km out-and-back trail offers a moderately challenging hike with a 99-meter elevation gain, perfect for those on a short visit. Sheemore Hill, known as the "Hill of the Fairies," is rich in mythology and natural beauty. As you ascend, you’ll encounter fairy trees and ancient tombs that have inspired musicians and artists over the years. The summit features three cairns and is illuminated by a striking crucifix at night, adding a touch of magic to your hike.   Ideal for hiking, running, or a peaceful walk, the Sheemore trail promises an enchanting experience with minimal crowds. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the mystical charm of Leitrim’s hills.   The Shannon Blueway Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Starting at Drumshanbo, approximately 12.4km and 15 minutes by car, Trail Length: Various lengths Difficulty: Easy to Moderate   The Shannon Blueway from Drumshanbo to Carrick on Shannon offers a versatile and scenic walking experience, with two main routes and additional optional looped walks that allow you to customize your journey.   Main Trail: Drumshanbo to Carrick on Shannon Drumshanbo to Battlebridge Lock (6.5 km, 2 hours): This section of the trail begins at Acres Lake in Drumshanbo, where you’ll encounter one of the most unique features of the Shannon Blueway—the floating boardwalk. As Ireland’s first floating boardwalk, this 600-meter stretch allows you to walk directly over the serene waters of Acres Lake, providing an incredibly scenic and peaceful start to your journey. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a highlight of the entire Blueway. From there, the linear trail continues along the canal bank through beautiful Leitrim countryside, leading to Battlebridge Lock.   Battlebridge Lock to Carrick-on-Shannon (10.5 km, 3 hours 30 minutes): The second section of the main trail extends 10.5 km from Battlebridge Lock to Carrick on Shannon. This route offers a varied walking experience, passing through a mix of landscapes as you make your way toward the vibrant town of Carrick on Shannon.    Optional Looped Walks Battlebridge Lock to Drumleague Lock (5 km, 1 hour 45 minutes): This looped canal walk provides a shorted trail option. The 5 km route takes you through charming landscapes and past historic locks.   Battlebridge Lock to Drumhauver Bridge (10 km, 3 hours): For a longer looped walk, this 10 km route continues from Drumleague Lock to Drumhauver Bridge and back. It offers an immersive experience of the Shannon Blueway’s natural beauty, with varied scenery and opportunities and you might be lucky enough to observe the locks in action as they assist boats to navigate the waterway.   The Boyle Walk and Lough Key Forests Park Trails Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Approximately 15km and 15 minutes by car Trail Length:  Boyle Walk: 7.9km, Lough Key Trails: Various lengths Difficulty: Easy to Moderate   The Boyle Walk and the trails within Lough Key Forest Park offer walkers a delightful combination of scenic beauty, historical interest, and easy-to-moderate paths suitable for all ages and abilities. Starting with the Boyle Walk, this 7.9 km route takes you through Boyle Marina, along the peaceful banks of the Boyle Canal, and through lush woodlands, eventually leading you to the magnificent Lough Key. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the area.   While in Boyle, there are several points of interest to explore. Visit the historic Boyle Abbey, learn about the rich heritage of the town and its people at King House, or continue your adventure into Lough Key Forest and Activity Park.   Lough Key Forest Park itself offers an additional 3 km to 4 km of trails through 350 hectares of breathtaking natural beauty. The park combines woodland and water with a wealth of intriguing points of interest, including the Bog Garden, Fairy Bridge, Ice House, and a Wishing Chair. The trails are easy to moderate in difficulty, making them accessible to most walkers.    Sliabh an Iarainn (Iron Mountain) Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Approximately 22.7km and 30 minutes by car Location: Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim Trail Length:  Aughacashel Loop – 3 km (1-1hr 20 mins) Easy Tullylackan Loop – 10 km (3 hrs -3 hrs 30 mins) Moderate Crummy Loop – 12 km (3 hrs – 3 hrs 30 mins) Moderate   Sliabh an Iarainn, the wild and rugged mountain in County Leitrim, rises majestically 585 meters above sea level on the eastern shore of Lough Allen. Known as the "Mountain of Iron" due to the rich iron deposits found in its rocks, this iconic peak is steeped in both natural beauty and historical significance. It’s said that iron ore from Sliabh an Iarainn was used in the construction of Dublin’s famous Halfpenny Bridge, adding to the mountain's storied past.   For hikers, Sliabh an Iarainn offers a rewarding and immersive experience. The trails wind through forested areas and open moorland, leading to panoramic views of Lough Allen and the surrounding countryside. At the summit, you'll be greeted with stunning vistas, making every step of the ascent worthwhile. The mountain offers a choice of trails of varying distances.   More details: https://leitrimtourism.com/treasured-landscapes/sliabh-an-iarainn/   The Miners Way and Historical Trail Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: There are a choice of trails with different starting points Trail Length: There are a number of trails and 2 routes totally 118 km.  Difficulty: Easy to Moderate in places   The Miners Way and Historical Trail is a captivating network of walking routes that winds through the scenic hills and valleys of Counties Leitrim, Roscommon, and Sligo. Just a short drive from Carrick on Shannon, this trail offers walkers a unique opportunity to explore Ireland’s rich mining history and breathtaking landscapes. The trail is divided into two main sections: the Miners Way, which traces the paths once used by miners heading to the Arigna Coal Mines, and the Historical Trail, which traverses the Curlew, Bricklieve, and Arigna Mountains.   Together, these routes cover a total of 11km, offering a mix of challenging climbs and leisurely walks. The Miners Way stretches 65.7 km, ascending 1,300 meters, while the Historical Trail is 60.5 km long with an 850-meter ascent. Along the way, you’ll encounter sites of historical interest, such as the Carrowkeel megalithic complex, and stunning views that connect Ireland’s Ancient East with the Wild Atlantic Way.   Whether you’re up for a week-long adventure or prefer to explore shorter sections, this trail caters to all levels of walkers. For those planning to walk in the Leitrim area, maps of the route can be downloaded from the Leitrim Tourism website. Start your journey by visiting Leitrim Tourism to access maps and plan your route.   Before We Finish Up... It’s important to say, if you are planning to go for a hike, don’t forget all the usual safety guidance; check the weather conditions, wear suitable clothing and footwear, stay on way-marked trails, let someone know your plans, bring essentials including a charged phone, leave no trace and enjoy!   Ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty, these 5 routes offer a variety of options. We hope that this has given you some inspiration to get out and about and enjoy the beautiful landscape that Leitrim and nearby Roscommon has to offer.

Enjoy a Riverside Walk in Carrick-on-Shannon

In the heart of County Leitrim, Carrick-on-Shannon offers visitors a blend of scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. Staying at Carrick Plaza Suites means that you are perfectly located to explore the pretty town, referred to by the locals simply as Carrick.  One of the most delightful ways to experience the town is by taking a leisurely stroll along the River Shannon. The river is within sight as you leave your accommodation and here, we have provided a guide to making the most of your riverside walk, along with other must-do activities in Carrick-on-Shannon.    Start Your Walk at the Marina   Begin your walk at the Carrick-on-Shannon Marina (our Reception Team will point you in the right direction), a bustling hub of holiday cruisers, barges, kayaks and even some very professional rowers. This area is perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and watching the river’s activity. The marina is also only a short walk from several cafes and restaurants where you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat before you set off.   Admire the Scenic Views   As you stroll along the riverside, you'll be treated to gorgeous views of the River Shannon. The tranquil waters, often dotted with holiday cruisers and even some houseboats create a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photography or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Keep in mind that The Moon River Cruiser is available for trips on the river, where you will have an opportunity to see the river from a different perspective!    Keep an eye out for local birdlife, including mute and whooper swans, mallards, tufted ducks, greater and lesser scaups, or green winged teal which add hugely to the charm of the riverside and will be of great interest to the kiddos and plenty of the grown-ups too!   Explore the Quayside, Boardwalk and Linear Park    Starting at the quayside home to the Old Barrel Store Tourism Office, the Moon River Cruiser and Carrick Electric Day Boats, you will find a path that meanders along the riverbank and through the area known as Linear Park. It’s a beautifully landscaped area perfect for a leisurely walk. Created and managed by the local multi-award-winning Tidy Towns team, the park features well-maintained paths, benches for resting, and informative plaques about the local flora and fauna. It’s an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. You’ll find wildflower, herb and sensory gardens, bug-hotels, a beautiful carved sculpture of local Saint Eidin and so much more. There is also a Small Free Library from where you can borrow or lend books to.   Take a River Cruise   No visit to this riverside town is complete without a jaunt along the river. For a different perspective of Carrick-on-Shannon and the River Shannon you can opt for the cosy Moon River daytime cruise during which your guide will share insights into the local history, culture, and natural beauty of the area. So there is also the option of venturing out on your own on one of the Carrick Electric Day Boats,no boating experience is required for these easy to use boats.   End Your Day with a Sunset Walk   And finally, if time allows, consider taking a sunset walk along the river. The foot bridge which connects the counties of Leitrim and Roscommon is an ideal location to view the sunset. Just beyond the bridge on the Roscommon side, is a small river side park, a popular visiting spot of the swan families and another ideal spot to take in the sun setting over the marina.   The sight of the sun setting over the River Shannon, casting golden hues across the water, is truly magical and provides a perfect end to your day in Carrick-on-Shannon.   Carrick-on-Shannon, with its scenic river walks and vibrant town life, offers a delightful escape. And when you stay with us here at Carrick Plaza Suites, it's all on our doorstep. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the best of Carrick-on-Shannon on foot.. out the front door, turn right and the river is straight ahead! You won't have far to go and you're going to love it!

Carrick Day Boats - The Ultimate Family Adventure in Carrick-on-Shannon

No visit to Carrick-on-Shannon or Leitrim is complete without a trip along the majestic River Shannon. Amongst the many options available to you to do this, is the latest amazing amenity in town and a favourite activity of both our family and friend group guests, – the 100% electric Carrick Day Boats! Turn right when you leave the Carrick Plaza Suites and only one minute's walk towards the Shannon, you'll find the Day Boats behind Moon River Pleasure Cruise at the Quay Wall. Designed to be safe and easy to drive, these boats offer a great way to see the river, the surrounding villages and countryside from a totally different perspective, at your own pace and leisure.   Your journey along the Shannon will bring you to some of the most picturesque places. Villages such as Cootehall, with the McGahern Museum and village playground; Jamestown, inspiration for the Conor McPherson play The Weir, ( and the only part of the Shannon that flows northwards) and Leitrim Village, one of the access points along the Beara Breifne Way and also the beautiful Shannon Blueway. These are just some of the places you and the family can visit along the river.   Environmentally the boats impact very little on the river and the local ecology. They are quiet and leave no traces of pollutants in the water, leaving the local wildlife safe in the security of their homes along the river.  With such a water-bird’s eye vantage of the river, and with the silence of the electric boat, you can easily spot the kingfisher mid-flight or say hello to a family of swans. Such excitement for the children!   The Carrick Day Boats offer excellent visibility from the helm with room for a group around a table in the forward cockpit area.  The design of the boats makes them extremely stable and comfortable, with each one fitted with cushions and a bimini to give you protection from the sun or of course, the rain.   No previous boating experience is required, and you can hire your boat for 3 or 7 hours, with 4 Adults or up to 2 Adults and four children on board. Your river adventure begins with a demonstration and safety briefing and you will be supplied with life jackets appropriate for all ages, and also a chart for exploring the river.   Carrick Day Boats are available for hire mid-week and at the weekends. Carrick Day Boats offer the ultimate family day out in Carrick on Shannon, bring a picnic and let nature guide you through Ireland’s largest river.    For more information and to book: https://www.moonriver.ie/carrick-day-boats/

Carrick Electric Day Boats are back for 2024 Season

Carrick on Shannon's Electric Day Boats are available for hire for the 2024 season. Located behind Moon River Pleasure Cruise on the Quay Wall in Carrick on Shannon. Bookings can be made online at www.moonriver.ie/carrick-day-boats. A very popular activity for families and friends. No experience is necessary, a short demo will be given on arrival. Full and half day boat hire is available.

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Carrick Plaza Suites,
Mercantile Plaza,
Bridge Street,
Carrick-On-Shannon,
Co. Leitrim
N41 WA27

Phone

0719616266

Email

stay@carrickplazasuites.ie

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