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Barrow

The River Barrow

The Barrow is the second-longest river in Ireland. It flows through the landscape of Waterford and is one of the "Three Sisters" rivers, alongside the Suir and the Nore. Travelers visit this waterway for river-based activities, nature walks, and to observe the rural scenery of the southeast.

Getting There

Access to the river varies depending on the specific bank or quay you wish to visit. From Waterford city centre, reaching the river's edge or nearby access points typically requires a short drive or local transport, taking approximately 10 to 20 minutes depending on the exact destination along the waterway.

Time Allocation

The amount of time to spend here depends on the activity. A short walk along the banks can take one to two hours, while those engaging in boating or cycling along the towpaths may wish to allocate a full day.

When to Visit

The river is accessible year-round, though spring and summer offer the most stable weather for outdoor activities. Early morning is generally the quietest time for visitors. It does not typically experience extreme crowding, though popular access points may be busier on summer weekends.

Nearby Attractions

The river's location allows for easy combination with other local sites:

  • Ballyhack Castle (0.4km)
  • Suir (4.5km)
  • Little Island (5.5km)
  • Gorteens Castle (6km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Barrow

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Barrow Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Ballyhack Castle

Castles & palaces

Ballyhack Castle

This medieval tower house stands in a village across the harbour from Waterford. Walking among the remains of this old riverside fortress offers a quiet sense of history.

0.4 km away

Suir

Nature

Suir

A river that crosses southeastern Ireland, passes through Waterford, and flows into the Celtic Sea, spanning 185km in length. It's a good place to walk along the current and take in the riverside scenery.

4.5 km away

Little Island

Nature

Little Island

An island located east of Waterford city, notable for its tranquil scenery surrounded by the river. Being close to the city center, it's a nice spot for a short walk in nature.

5.5 km away

Gorteens Castle

Castles & palaces

Gorteens Castle

This ruined castle stands on private land near the village of Slieverue in southeastern Kilkenny, close to Waterford. It's one of several sites scattered across the parish of Rathpatrick, a quiet spot for tracing old traces of the past.

6.0 km away

Reginald's Tower

Museums & galleries

Reginald's Tower

Standing at the eastern end of Waterford's quay, this is Ireland's oldest civic building. Having served many purposes over the centuries while keeping its Viking-era name, it's a unique landmark revealing traces of the city's medieval defenses.

9.5 km away

Waterford Treasures

Museums & galleries

Waterford Treasures

A museum complex in Waterford's old-town Viking Triangle, made up of several exhibition spaces including the Viking museum at Reginald's Tower and the former Bishop's Palace. Highlights include artifacts such as the 14th-century Waterford Charter Roll, along with walking tours and a café.

9.6 km away