Shannon Pot: Source of the Shannon
Discover the mystical source of Ireland's longest river, steeped in ancient mythology and surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
The Shannon Pot, a mystical pool in County Cavan, marks the traditional source of Ireland's longest river, the River Shannon. Steeped in legend and surrounded by tranquil landscapes, it's a must-see for nature lovers and those seeking a connection to ancient Ireland.
A brief summary to Shannon Pot
- Derrylahan, Co. Cavan, IE
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the most favorable weather and to see the landscape in full bloom.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Shannon Pot Walk, a well-maintained trail offering scenic views.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the tranquil waters of the Shannon Pot.
Getting There
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Walking
The Shannon Pot is located along the Cavan Way, a long-distance walking route between Blacklion and Dowra. From the car park, a short marked trail leads to the Shannon Pot. The walk is easy and takes only a few minutes. The Cavan Way and Cavan Burren Park will remain open.
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Public Transport
There is no direct public transportation to the Shannon Pot. From Cavan, the best option is to take a bus to Hawkswood and then a taxi to the Shannon Pot. The bus and taxi journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Alternatively, take the bus from Cavan Bus Station to Bellanaleck or Derrylin and then drive to Shannon Pot.
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Driving
The Shannon Pot is located along the Blacklion to Glangevlin Road (R206) in West County Cavan. It is approximately 50 minutes away from Killeshandra. From Cavan, it is about a 53-minute drive. There is ample parking available at the site. Note: Visitor access to the Shannon Pot may be intermittent due to construction works until early 2026.
Discover more about Shannon Pot
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Burren Forest
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Burren SW Portal Tomb
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Glenfarne Demesne
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Spencer Harbour
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Kilronan Castle
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Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway
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Magheraghanrush Court Tomb
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Ancient Ring Fort, Coolcreeve (Cúil Chraobh)
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Devils Chimney
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The Landmark Hotel - Carrick on Shannon
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Leitrim Tourist Office
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Donegal Corridor
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Sligo Great War Memorial Garden
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The Doorly Park
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Carrowkeel Passage Tombs
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Unmissable attractions to see
Entrance to the Burren Forest
3.1 km
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Cavan Burren Park
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Giants Leap Wedge Tomb
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Killykeeghan National Nature Reserve
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Cuilcagh (stairway to heaven)
6.9 km
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Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
6.9 km
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Hanging Rock, Fermanagh
7.1 km
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Marble Arch Caves (Open Year-Round)
7.4 km
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Maguire's Public House
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Tullydermot Falls
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Pollnagollum Cave
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Kiltyclogher Heritage Centre
15.6 km
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St Patrick's Well
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Mullaghgarve Mass Rock Walk
17.1 km
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Scardan Waterfall
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Essential places to dine
MacNean House & Restaurant
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The Lavender Restaurant
7.0 km
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Tully Mill Restaurant
13.6 km
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The Gables Restaurant & Farmhouse Accommodation
14.0 km
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Rowan Tree Restaurant
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Chef's Table at Three Way Inn
18.1 km
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The Loft Café & Restaurant
18.2 km
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Gurn's Milestone & Restaurant
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The Moorings Restaurant
19.6 km
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Smyth's Siopa Ól Pub
21.6 km
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M Lounge
21.8 km
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The Street Kitchen Enniskillen
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28 At The Hollow
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Blakes of the Hollow
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Granny Annies
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
P.S. Loughlin
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Breffni Gallery
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Caz-Cards Gift Shop, Printing & Balloons
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Country House Town House
21.5 km
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Donohoe's SuperValu Ballinamore
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Jordan's Furniture Leitrim
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Mulveys Hardware
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B&M Store
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Style Boutique
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Osborne & Co.
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Graham Enniskillen
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Erneside
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Vogue
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Menarys
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
J McHugh
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Rynns Pub
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Linnet Inn
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Rooneys Cosy Corner
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Fordes Inn Bar & Lounge
16.3 km
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Wynne’s Market Bar
16.4 km
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Regal Bar & Restaurant
16.8 km
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McGirls Bar
21.6 km
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Jackie's The Lakeland Bar
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The Lough Inn
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JT Ryans Bar
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The Cornerstone Bar
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Devenish Bar
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Pat's Bar
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Crowe's Nest
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Wildes Lounge
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Lee's
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Basement Club
33.9 km
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Cryan's Teach Ceoil
34.3 km
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Gings Bar
34.5 km
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O'Carolans Bar & Lounge
34.9 km
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Paris
35.8 km
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Toffs Niteclub
36.1 km
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Lola Montez
36.1 km
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Cocktail Club
36.2 km
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Garavoguehenstag.ie - Sligo's Number 1 Hen and Stag Provider
36.3 km
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Fort Knox Bar and Lounge
41.1 km
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98 Bar Ballinamuck
42.6 km
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The Orchard Bar
45.1 km
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