26th July. Abbeyshrule.

As we approach Abbeyshrule we are greeted with this mural.

Looking back to our mooring, some of the flowerbeds can be seen. Abbeyshrule is trying to win "Best town in Europe" in the competition next week. Last year they won best village in Ireland and they are trying very hard this year.

Downstream of the bridge there are several more tidy boats.

Mary, Elaine and Andy found this sculpture of fish made out of bog oak.

Further on there is an aeroplane.

The resident donkeys are very friendly.

Elaine and Sally liked this cute little house.

But Andy preferred the tractor.

The original abbey of Abbeyshrule lies on the outskirts of the village.

The modern church of Our Lady of Lourdes was dedicated in 1980. It has been built right in the centre of Abbeyshrule.

It is beautiful inside the church.

The Puzzler can just be seen between the houses while, to Elaine's left, the ladies of the village move on to do more weeding elsewhere in preparation for the big competition day next week.

Even this bicycle outside the pub has been beautifully decorated.

There are not many places where it is possible to see pictures like this on the wall of a garage.

At Corncrake Meadow the birds looked very lifelike!

On the way back Andy and Elaine rested by the flower garden.

This was our first Irish hedgehog. He wasn't any more friendly than English ones!

Back at The Puzzler after a delightful visit to Abbeyshrule.