The Esker Riada provided a route through the bogs of the Irish Midlands. It has, since ancient times, formed a highway joining the east and west of Ireland. The monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise was constructed at the point where the River Shannon passes through the Esler Riada.
In contrasts with the surrounding boglands, the glacial sands typical of the eskers provided well drained and relatively good quality land, proving useful for agriculture.
There are many remains of eskers to be seen in the surrounding countryside of Athlone, Moate, Glasson & Mount Temple.
