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Playspot: Ireland, Lucan, River Liffey, The Sluice.

What's it like

The Sluice is probably Ireland's best known playspot. It is 4 to 5 meters wide and is partly a hole, partly a messy wave. The Sluice is not particularly retentive but allows all the new tricks to be done. The spot is really deep so don't be afraid to bottom out.

Picture courtesy of John Flanagan.

Another pic of the Sluice (larger view) is here. (Paddler Keith Bigford, Picture John Flanagan)

The water is being released by an electricity company (ESB). If they produce more than 1 MW (MegaWatt), the spot is worth a paddle.

How to get there

Leaving Dublin City follow the signs for the M4/Galway/The West (it is the road out of town that passes Heuston Station, the main railway station in the city). It's dual carriageway all the way. Approximately 2 miles after going through a major roundabout you'll see a large hotel called The Lucan Spa Hotel on a hill ahead of you. Take the exit directly before you start to climb the hill, it's signposted for Lucan. Turn right at the T junction and go back under the N4, you'll see a gravel track to the left. Park in there and simply follow the track up the river for 400 meters. There is a weir on the river and The Sluice is on far river left.

More info

For water level info, phone The Canoe Center (kayak shop): +353 1 6264363 or check the online water level on www.irishplayboating.com.

For more info about freestyle events in Ireland, check www.irishfreestyle.com.

Info sources

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Nearest weather station (°C):