The construction of the Grand Canal was completed in 1756. Since then local residents have enjoyed this inland waterway. Why not find out what activities you can avail of along our treasured Canal in Dublin 4.
The Dublin Rally
This exciting event takes place in May on the Grand Canal. 11th May 2013: Parade of Barges and Boats, including ‘Floating Gardens’ and ‘Workparty’, which are artistic installations on floats created Kathryn Maguire.
Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre
Do you want to learn how the locks along the canal work? Do you want to learn more about the history of our Grand Canal? Visit our Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre.
Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2. Open from April to October: 10am – 6pm. Tel: 6777510. www.waterwaysireland.org/visitorcentre
Walk and Talk along the Grand Canal
Dublin City Council leads a “Let’s walk and talk” group. They meet outside The Barge Pub at Charlemont Mall, Dublin 6. The walk is on Tuesdays at 2pm. www.dublincity.ie/community
Irish Village Markets
Enjoy wonderful local food and drinks at the open-air market on Mespil Road. There is music to be enjoyed too. Every Thursday from 11am – 2pm. Every Friday at Percy Place from 11am – 2pm. Tel: 2841197. www.irishvillagemarkets.ie
Windsurf, Kayak or Sail
If you want to try windsurfing, kayaking or sailing, Surfdock can help you out. The Grand Canal Dockyard, South Dock Rd, Ringsend. Tel: 6683945. www.surfdock.ie
Guided Bicycle Tours
Get on a bike with a very sociable guide who will give you a tour of the Grand Canal and adjacent areas. Tel: Ronan at 086 837 5955. www.dublinbybike.ie;
Segway on the Grand Canal
For a new adventure, you can segway in and around the Grand Canal Harbour. Operates in the summer time from Monday to Sunday from The Custom House. Times are 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm. Tel: 8223388. www.glidetours.ie
Walk along the Grand Canal Way
Meander along the scenic, not to mention flat, 130 km walk from The Grand Canal Basin at Ringsend to Shannon Harbour. www.irishtrails.ie and www.grandcanalhike.org
Grand Canal Group: http://grandcanaldublin.com/
by Tracy O’Brien
