The stretch of river between Maganey and Carlow town is quiet and peaceful, and popular with walkers. The Barrow Way stays on the left bank of the river as you head south. The river becomes more wooded, and you may see anglers out fishing on its banks.
You will soon join a short side canal that leads down to Maganey Lock, where there is a fine lock cottage that was once the home of the writer Eoghan O Turairisc. Continuing south, the river is lined with tall mature trees.
The towpath crosses two footbridges over tributary streams — at the latter, look across the river for the 16th century castle in the trees on the opposite side of the river.
Then the grounds of Knocbeg College, with its thick woods, border the west bank of the river. You will pass another weir and arrive down at Bestfield Lock, which legend says is haunted.
After this you will start to see Carlow Town, with its two cathedrals and derelict sugar factory, up ahead, and you will pass an old graveyard on your way into the town.
The towpath joins a footpath as you reach the town, and arrive at the Graiguecullen or Wellington Bridge. Carlow Castle is ahead just off the east bank of the river too. Carlow is a busy county town with lots of visitor attractions, such as the Carlow County Museum and the Visual Centre for Contemporary Arts, and is well worth exploring.
