Explore

TRAIL MAP &
GENERAL INFORMATION

A walk like no other, this emotional trail with captivating layers of history tells the tale of the Great Irish Famine (1845 – 52) and of 1,490 famine-stricken tenant families who were marched to Dublin by their landlord in 1847 and forced to emigrate to Canada via Liverpool. The story unfolds at each bronze shoe way marker through a free app. An official pack and passport complete the experience.

Trail Map

Global Irish Famine Way

In 2024 the National Famine Way expanded beyond Ireland following the journeys made by some of the original 1,490 Irish famine emigrants. The bronze shoe waymarkers on the mother trail will also mark each significant location on the Global Irish Famine Way. The UK (Liverpool) and Canada, the first countries the 1,490 went to, are the pioneers.

Learn More

Explore experiences on the trail

With its rich mix of beautiful landscapes, rugged hills, soft bogs, peaceful lakes and vibrant townscapes, welcome to one of the most surprising and unspoilt parts of Ireland. The entire length of the National Famine Way has a surprising number of charming villages, interesting visitor attractions and historic buildings to discover and explore.

Explore experiences on the trail

Gallery

Both the poignancy of the trail’s history and the beauty of the waterways and countryside along National Famine Way are captured in this selection of photographs. It also features many of the ancient ruins and archaeological features on or near the route.

Gallery