A narrow causeway links the island landscape with the mainland. The area is associated with the remains of the medieval Augustinian Priory of All Saints, whose surviving masonry belongs to the long ecclesiastical story of the Shannon lakes.
The setting is also important for wildlife, particularly birds using the lakeshore and surrounding habitat. The island is not simply an archaeological monument detached from its natural environment.
Lough Ree has a network of old religious sites on and around its islands. Saints Island is one Longford example of how water provided both a physical boundary and a route between communities.
Historical references to an island or priory do not establish open access to every field, bank or part of a ruin. Check local guidance, respect nesting birds and keep to appropriate paths.
Barley Harbour and Newtowncashel provide nearby points from which to appreciate this part of the lake country without assuming there is a public waterside trail around the whole shore.