National Famine Way

A 165km way marked walking/cycling trail commemorating a heartbreaking walk of forced emigration in 1847 at the height of the Irish famine. 

National Famine Way
Bronze Shoes along the National Famine Way

It begins at the memorial glass wall at National Famine Museum | Strokestown Park in Roscommon and continues through six counties (including County Meath) to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin’s Docklands. The route is marked by more than 30 pairs of bronze children’s shoes, including locations in Meath at the Hill of Down, Longwood and Enfield.

National Famine Way on the Royal Canal towpath

The comprehensive official pack includes a passport and a ship ticket for one of the original famine families. A free app follows the experience of 12-year-old Daniel Tighe, with relevant audio and video centred around the bronze shoes. On completion official walkers discover the fate of their famine family and receive a certificate of completion and a comprehensive end of trail booklet.

National Famine Way Sign

Mainly off road, following the Royal Canal towpath.

Suits families, casual walkers and cyclists.


For more information see nationalfamineway.ie