Ballyfad Wood
Overview
Welcome to Ballyfad wood over 200 acres of mature woodland near Coolgreany, Co. Wexford which is an example of an old woodland site that is shown in the original 1835 Ordnance Survey map. Such old woodland sites are relicts of the original vast forests that covered most of the country prior to the 16th century and are rich in biodiversity as they have never been fully clear-felled.
The woods at Ballyfad were acquired by the government from the Brooke Estate in 1904 at a cost of over £3,000.
Ballyfad Wood was used as a refuge by rebel forces both before and after the rebellion of 1798 and there are records of Anthony Hackett and his companions encountering local loyalist militia in the woods in the autumn and winter of 1798.
Things to do
The trailhead sign shows details of 4 trails of varying length and many fine examples of mature oak (1820), beech (1912), Norway spruce, Western hemlock, Douglas fir and Scots pine can be seen along the way. A special section of the Bluebell trail has been developed as a fairy walk especially for younger walkers.
Beech Trail – 1.5 km – 45 minutes – Green markers – easy
Bluebell Trail – 3 km – 1 hour 20 minutes – Red markers – moderate
Old mass path Trail – 4.3 km – 1 hour 35 minutes – Yellow markers – easy
Ballyfad Trail – 5 km – 1 hour 50 minutes – Blue markers – Easy
Don't miss hidden gem
The opportunity to pause and reflect under the magnificent stand of mature trees along the Beech Trail.
The tree framed view of the ancient volcanic stump of Tara Hill from the woodland seat on the Bluebell trail.
The stream and washing stone at the bridge on the Bluebell Trail used by generations of local women.
The enchanting fairy trail created by local children on combined section of the Beech and Bluebell trail.
Visitor facilities on site
Nearby pit stops
Gorey town