This hidden gem was spotted by Demid Tishin, one of our adventurous blog followers.

Best Time to Swim

Refreshing year-round, but summer is ideal.

Access Details

The easiest landmark to navigate to is Batty Langley Lodge. From R404 turn into Cois Abhann and go to the end of the street where you find one of the pedestrian gates to Castletown estate and a listed gatehouse building, Batty Langley Lodge. Park considerately on the verge near the trees (avoid blocking driveways).

Go through the gate (if it’s locked in the evening, follow a short path right of the gate, which leads to a convenient climb over the wall. From the Lodge, follow any of the paths going down to the Liffey, it’s only a minute walk. You’ll see the beautiful medieval ruins of St Wolstan’s Abbey on the opposite bank. There are multiple places to enter the water, and plenty of space for a picnic.

If the gate is locked in the evening, take the short path to the right of the gate—it leads to an easy spot to climb over the wall. From the lodge, follow any of the paths downhill to the river (just a minute’s walk). You’ll be greeted by the striking ruins of St. Wolstan’s Abbey on the opposite bank. Multiple entry points into the water are available, and there’s plenty of space for a riverside picnic.

Swimming Notes

• The water is cool and gets deep very quickly
• The riverbed is stony (no sand here), but the swim is enjoyable
• Current is moderate—gentler than the shallower, sandy spots upstream in Castletown
• Local teens sometimes dive from the banks (use caution)
• Occasional fishermen, but the area is generally peaceful

A serene and scenic spot for a dip, with a touch of history!