Donadea Forest Park
Overview
Donadea Forest Park includes Donadea Castle and estate, the former home of the Aylmer family up until 1935. There are many historical features including the remains of the castle and walled gardens, St. Peter’s church, an ice house and boat house.
The Lime tree avenue planted in the 19th century formed the original entrance to the estate. Another feature of the park is the 9/11 Memorial, a scaled replica of the twin towers carved in limestone. The small lake is brimming with ducks, waterhens and has a beautiful display of water lilies in the summer. There is a café open throughout the year.
There is a €5 charge to enter with your car and all cards and payment apps are now accepted at the entrance barrier (since Dec 2020).
Donadea is a very popular recreation site, so try to travel outside of peak times to avoid delays on entry.
Things to do
Walk: Three looped walking trails in the forest park cater for all abilities; The Lake Walk (0.8 kms, 30 mins, access for all) is a lovely looped walk around the lake and can be accesed by all, and why not feed the ducks along the way. The Nature Trail (1.6 kms, 1 hr, Easy) this trail winds its way through some of the man made elements in the park from the estate era, and takes in a short shrubbery trail along the way. The Aylmer Walk (5.7 kms, 1 ½ hrs, Easy) takes you all round the park and is also a Slí na Slainte trail so it is good for your health and heart.
Permanent Orienteering: Donadea has 3 permanent orienteering courses, Short (1.8 km), Medium (3.4 km) and Long (4.6 km)
Don’t miss our hidden gem
A lovely walk around the lake and for the kiddies a climb on the old tree root beside it.
Visitors Facilities on site
Car Park 460 spaces
Car park opens at 7am (April to September) and 8am (October to March)
Car park closes at 9pm (April to September) and 7pm (October to March)
Parking Fee: €5.00 Per Car (All cards, coins and payment apps taken – cash not taken) Annual Access Card €40.00
Toilet facilities are only available during café opening hours.