Another very picturesque place on The Barrow Way is Clogrennan Lock (known locally as Lanigan’s Lock) in County Laois. It is a beautiful spot to go for a walk, very close to Carlow Town (3,8 km), and offered beautiful views.
The location on the banks of the River Barrow makes it a common fishing spot. In particular, the stretch of river where the small canal rejoins the Barrow, locally as Lanigans Lock, is known for trout fishing. And was a swimming spot although Laois County Council has posted signs warning of the dangers of swimming in the water here. A walkway known as the Barrow track runs from Milford, downriver of Ballyhide through this area and into Carlow Town.
There is a lovely walk along the grassy towpath to Clogrennan Lock. The boundary hedgerow supports a diversity of species including Guelder-rose, Spindle, and Hazel. All of which produce an autumn fruit crop for birds and animals. If you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of the brightly coloured Kingfisher who makes his home along these banks. Beyond the fields, hills rise to shelter the valley. At Clogrennan House, the ruins of a Butler Castle are incorporated into the gateway as turrets. There is excellent parking at Clogrennan Lock. – Source: www.barrowline.ie
Location of Clogrennan Lock, Co. Laois:
Below are photos I took in March 2021.
