Banagher Bridge, Stone bridge over River Shannon between County Offaly and County Galway, Ireland
Banagher Bridge is a seven-arched stone structure spanning the River Shannon, connecting the provinces of Leinster and Connacht with a sturdy construction. The bridge was widened to accommodate modern traffic on the R356 road, creating a stable crossing for vehicles and pedestrians.
An earlier bridge with seventeen arches stood on this site from 1685 until the early 1840s, when it was replaced by the current structure built by the Shannon Navigation Commissioners. The new bridge was part of a larger navigation improvement project for the River Shannon.
The bridge marks a traditional meeting point between eastern and western Ireland, linking communities from County Offaly and County Galway across the Shannon. It shapes how people from both sides experience crossing between the provinces in their daily movement.
The bridge is located on the R356 road and offers straightforward access on foot or by vehicle. Visitors can explore the area around the older bridge structure and visit Cromwell's Castle nearby.
Remains of the original 1685 bridge structure are still visible near Cromwell's Castle, located adjacent to the seventh arch of the current crossing. These ruins offer a glimpse into the earlier engineering techniques used in this part of Ireland.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
