Drumshanbo - County Leitrim

Drumshanbo is where the Shannon Blueway starts, and Acres Lake has Ireland’s first floating boardwalk. This 600m boardwalk goes over the lake and is part of a 6.5 km trail for walking and cycling from Acres Lake in Drumshanbo to Battlebridge Lock, near Leitrim Village.

The town itself is steeped in history: ancient monuments like the Rath Dúin ringfort and the Carrowkeel passage tombs are testament to the area’s rich archaeological heritage. Check out its unique High Street with a stone wall and steps leading to Ireland’s shortest Main Street. Also, visit St. John’s Church of Ireland, a Gothic building from 1829.

The nearby Arigna Coal Mine, now a fascinating visitor attraction, provides insights into the region’s coal mining legacy of providing jobs and resources for the community.

Drumshanbo boasts a lively cultural scene where you can experience impromptu music sessions in the local pubs.  It is the only town left in Ireland that still celebrates An Tóstal, a festival that began in 1953 to celebrate Irish culture. It’s a week of family fun with lots of activities like street performances, indoor and outdoor games, water sports, and the famous Stylish Silage contest. Joe Mooney Summer School is another week-long festival of traditional Irish music to try.

Drumshanbo is known for its acclaimed gin produced at the Shed Distillery, gaining global recognition for its unique flavours. Crafted by Pat Rigney, Drumshanbo Gin reflects the town’s essence and uses locally sourced ingredients.
A meticulous distillation process that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. The botanicals used in its production are carefully selected, with many sourced locally from the bogs, meadows, and forests of County Leitrim. Key ingredients such as juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, and citrus peels are expertly blended to create this world-known flavour. The distillery offers tours, showcasing its craftsmanship and inviting visitors to experience Ireland’s distilling heritage first-hand.

With its stunning scenery, fascinating history (and its famous gin) Drumshanbo offers a beautiful experience for those seeking to explore the hidden gems of County Leitrim and the beauty of rural Ireland.