The Rath Walk
A 2 km red-waymarked loop (about 45 minutes, moderate, 70 m ascent) from the car park up a beech-lined avenue to the hilltop rath, with wide views westward over east Laois and down to Kilkea Castle.
Mullaghreelan Wood
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About
An old woodland estate wrapped around a hilltop rath, with two waymarked walks, a wishing well and a famous spring bluebell display above Kilkea Castle in south Kildare.
Things to Do
The O'Tuathaill Walk
A 1.9 km blue-waymarked loop (about 45 minutes, moderate) that takes you to the wishing well in the north-east of the forest, where old legend has it ladies threw coins to find a husband.
Bluebells and old woodland
Mullaghreelan is an old woodland site that puts on a great display of bluebells when they flower in late spring. The network of forest roads and trails suits both casual strollers and keen walkers.
Kilkea Castle and history
The wood adjoins Kilkea Castle, built in 1180 AD by Hugh de Lacey, and the hilltop rath it encircles probably predates the castle. Saint Laurence O'Toole, 12th-century Archbishop of Dublin, was born here.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open daily 09:00–21:00; the car park gates open 9am and close 9pm in both the April–September and October–March periods (per Coillte).
- Admission: Free entry
- Parking: Free car park with about 20 spaces on the R418 (Athy–Castledermot road); wheelchair-accessible parking available.
- Food: No café on site — bring a picnic for the picnic area. Nearest towns with shops and food are Athy and Castledermot on the R418.
Getting Around
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