Cratloe Wood Forest Park

Cratloe Wood Forest Park
4.6 (543)

About

A 700-hectare Coillte forest on the slopes of Woodcock Hill, threaded with walking trails above the Shannon Estuary and home to a much-loved children's playground. Cratloe's oaks are said to have roofed Westminster Hall.

Things to Do

Waymarked forest walk

A waymarked trail of about 2 km starts at the car park, and an extensive forest-road network lets you keep walking for hours through the 700 hectares.

Spraoi sa Choill playground

A Robinia-wood playground with slides, climbing frame, sand area and a zip line, designed to keep children in touch with nature in all seasons.

Picnic by the lake

Half a kilometre in, a small lake of about 2.5 hectares is inhabited by duck and waterfowl, with picnic tables and seats nearby for a family stop.

Woodcock Hill and Gallows Hill views

The western side of Woodcock Hill is Gallows Hill, named for Cromwellian-era executions and said to sit on an ancient burial ground. The steep climb is rewarded with some of the best views of the Shannon Estuary.

Village and Bunratty nearby

Cratloe village, with Ballymorris Pottery, and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are short drives away; the village sits about 15 minutes from Shannon Airport.

Plan Your Visit

  • Parking: On-site car park beside Cratloe village, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance.
  • Food: Picnic site with tables on site; nearest shops, pubs and cafés are in Cratloe village and Bunratty.

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