Overall

1. Crunchies cost €1.15. Wow.

2. Easy to walk, good trail, flat as, certain degree of sameness.

3. No other backpacker spotted, disappointing.

4. I would have a couple of mild comments that Waterways Ireland might consider. Firstly, very few, arguably, no seats on the routes. Secondly, no accomodation info at road/lock intersections. Thirdly , do they not know about the popularity of looped walks in Europe, never mind the average spend of walkers. Fourthly, these bogs, our bogs, are unique and wonderful, tell the World. Bog heritage centre on route, let them cut turf with those great tools. Cue some great Con Houlihane articles.

5. Use of canals by boaters way down, per locals at key spots. Not good. Some imagination and energy needed.

6.15 years to get through Bog of Allen back in the day.

7. Logistics of digging the canal, what engineering endurance, no diggers in those days.

8. Sallins, too many takeaways, two very decent restaurants facing canal though, in my opinion, Lock 13, with its unique fish and chips, and smaller,though excellent, Canal Lock.

9. Robertstown: Could do better.

10. Allenstown: As above.

11. Edenderry: As above.Disadvantged by 1.5 kms off canal though.

12. Daingean: V. Good. Obvious community spirit.

13. Tullamore: I liked it. Some great pubs.

13.a Pullagh (?) should step up, there is no other place between Tullamore and the end at Shannon Harbour and thats circa 35kms, too far to walk without a bowl of soup.

14. Shannon Harbour: jury still out.

15. I looked at the accounts of Waterways Ireland, should be doing better.

Overall, loads of potential, as yet not realised, one dedicated person with energy would make big impact on a limited budget. The trail itself is perfect.