The Liffey is a 125 km Irish river that flows from west to east through the city of Dublin, before emptying into the Irish Sea. The Liffey is actually one of Ireland’s best-known rivers: Dubliners live on its banks, and are accustomed to using its energy resources for hydroelectric power (at Leixlip, Golden Falls and Poulaphouca). A beautiful river, rich in fish, which allows Dublin to live at nature’s pace…
Aerial view of the River Liffey in Dublin – © SomethingIrish
The Liffey rises in the Wicklow mountains and meanders its way through Dublin. Upstream, the river is known for the countless numbers of fish in its waters. Fishermen love to cast their lines here during the wild salmon fishing season: big catches are a regular occurrence!
In the city, it’s great to walk along the Liffey in Dublin, day and night. You’ll come across many bridges linking Dublin’s 2 shores, including the famous Samuel Beckett Bridge.
We also recommend you follow the Bachelor Walk, which starts at Temple Bar and takes you up the Liffey to discover the city’s 9 bridges, including the most famous: the Ha’Penny Bridge, a wrought-iron bridge dating from 1816, and the James Joyce Bridge, inaugurated in 2003.
At night, the city lights are reflected in the water, providing one of Dublin’s most charming sights. A lovely walk!
In general, the Liffey can be sailed along, or even kayaked. A ferry (called Liffey Ferry) even crosses the river to reach 3 different points in Dublin:
All for 2€, a low price that will save you unnecessary walking.