In the centre of Ireland between Galway and Dublin and in County Offaly is Banagher. The village is the starting and end point for many boating holidays on the River Shannon. While here make the most of the convenience store to stock up on groceries and provisions to take on board your canal boat before heading off along the waterways.

Banagher may be relatively small, but it's still very much alive: sip a pint of local beer at the Railway Bar or the JJ Houghs Singing Pub, while listening to traditional music, and learn to toast in Gaelic ("Sláinte"). As you walk through Banagher, cross the stone bridge and pass in front of the Martello Tower, built in the 19th century to protect the city from a possible French invasion.

• Bellanaleck  (Erne Region)

• Carrick on Shannon   (Shannon Region)