To Ballinaglera from Carrick on Shannon, (16 miles) follow signs for R280 to Drumshambo, then turn onto R207 for 8 miles to Ballinaglera.
Ballinaglera and Dowra are located on the border of Leitrim and Cavan and form part of a spectacular panorama that includes Lough Allen and the well-known Sliabh an Iarainn and Cuilcagh Mountain Ranges. The Leitrim Way, Cavan Way, and Miners Way walking trails and the Kingfisher Cycle Trail all converge in the village of Dowra.
The Leitrim Way and the Kingfisher cycle trail run through the heart of Ballinaglera parish parallel to Lough Allen and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The area is scattered with fascinating points of interest such as holy wells, a megalithic tomb, ring forts, Shannon Pot (source of the River Shannon), sweathouses and many other evidences of ancient settlement.
Ballinaglera and Dowra offer a number of venues for a relaxed drink; Rynn’s Pub in Ballinaglera is a unique example of a rural pub that combines grocery, post office and undertaker with its vintner business. The Melrose Inn in Dowra offers a bite to eat as well as a drink. Each pub in the area has its own welcoming atmosphere and unique character.
Community Groups
Ballinaglera and Dowra are active communities and if you are new to the area you’re sure of a warm welcome at any of the following groups:
Ballinaglera Development Association: Concerned with the social and economic development of Ballinaglera. Its main project at present is the refurbishment of the Community Centre and the provision of facilities for the community and visitors. Terry Gilrane (Chairman) 071 9643065
Ballinaglera Social Services: This group works with the HSE to provide support for older people in the parish. They provide meals and recreational facilities in the local Health Centre for older people. Gerry McGourty (Chairman) 071 9643
St Hugh’s GAA Club: Involved in the promotion of GAA in the parish. The Club are at present involved in improvement works in its grounds in Ballinaglera and have recently established a training pitch as well as its main playing field. Tomás Forde, (Chairman) 071 9643
Shannon Valley Women’s Group: This group welcomes women from West Cavan as well as Ballinaglera and has strong links with Fermanagh, especially Boho. It is involved with providing new opportunities for women in the areas of providing courses, keep fit and other recreational classes, cross-border links, and development of its members. Margie Cornyn (Chairperson)
Shanallen Choir: The choir welcomes people from all of North Leitrim and West Cavan. No experience required. The choir’s repertoire includes church music, songs from the shows, light classical and fun. No experience needed, the choir welcomes all who can keep a note. Practices are held on Monday nights at 8.00 pm in Doobally Church, Dowra. Aedin McLoughlin (Director) 071 9643000
Dowra Childcare Committee:
Dowra Development Association: Objectives are to highlight development opportunities for the community, maintain and upgrading existing facilities and, in general, endeavour to make the village and surrounding area a better place to live for local and new residents. Seamas McGovern (Chairman) 071 96
Shannon Allen Tourism: This is a local committee that focuses on development of tourism in Dowra. It is mainly concerned with the organisation of Festivals, including St. Patrick’s Day and the Dowra Old Fair Day in June. Geraldine Woods (Secretary) 071 96
Want to know more?
Ballinaglera Boho Tourism Partnership
Ballinaglera Heritage
Ballinaglera Activities
Ballinaglera Events
This project is part-financed by the European Union through the Interreg IIIA Programme managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by the ICBAN Partnership.
