Durrow Leafy Loops - Dunmore Woods loop
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the collapse of a section of the river bank this trail has become impassable between the trailhead and Dunmore Wood meaning this section of the trail is currently closed. Work to rectify the issue will be done as quickly as possible. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
The walk can be joined in Dunmore Wood.
This walk on country lanes, river bank, forestry paths and woodland tracks takes the walker through mixed broadleaf and conifer woods, across farmland and along rivers, passing the ruins of Dunmore House. Lovely views of the Laois countryside with lots of diverse rural scenery.
Maps and other information
Facilities
Restaurants, shops, accommodation, car parking
Care is needed while crossing the main road.Please note sections of the loop can be prone to flooding in adverse weather conditions
OSI Maps
Kate from Dublin
Ann from Laois
Ann Lanigan
Rural Recreation Officer
Laois Partnership Co.
Brendan from Dublin
Geraldine from Offaly
Dan from Carlow
We enjoyed a good chat and a good walk. The mixture of riverside, forest and field trails, along with a minimal amount of paved road, made for a very pleasant stroll. It is very well marked and except for a few 'mucky' patches after recent rain the underfoot conditions were excellent.
A highlight for me was to walk along the riverside boundary of an open field that featured an old quarry and where a healthy looking herd of cattle along with a few horses made for a great scene.
I will be back again to add in the leafy loops the next time!!
claire from Kildare
The Scarecrow Festival was on that same weekend at the end of July and it was amazing...scarecrow characters from every walk of life depicted in the square, by the River Nore and outside houses everywhere. Not to be missed!
Back to the walk, even though it was wet in places we were able to detour a little and find our way back to the trail. The route is really well marked, with lots of diverse rural scenery and our large group, 24 in all, promised we would be back again.....especially when the bluebells are out!
We ended the day with lunch in Durrow Castle which was absolutely fantastic, gorgeous old world surroundings and lovely food at a reasonable price.
All in all a fabulous day.
Many thanks to Ann Lanigan, Laois Rural Development Officer who gave us such invaluable advice and support. Keep up the great work!