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Walks
In recent years the main walks through the woodlands were the Lime Walk and the Chestnut Walk.
Whilst these were magnificent tree-lined walks in the past, they have become neglected in recent years. Several of the limes have been blown down, one of the chestnuts has died and many more are seriously decayed.
While the walks were deteriorating, others were disappearing altogether. The River Walk is the most notable of these. Until recently, only short sections were visible - the remainder was either totally overgrown or non-existent.
The River Walk is easily accessed from both the Picnic Area and the Car Park in Courtown village.
This is a delightful, quiet walk, with fine river views. However care is needed, particularly with children, there are steep steps and slopes beside the river.
The Top Walk, accessed from the Picnic Area, overlooks the River Walk in places. There is a short linking path to the Spike Bridge, which allows for crossing in the Coillte Wood on the north side of the river. (This wood is adjacent to the Courtown House site. The brick walls of the old kitchen garden are visible from here.) The Top Walk is particularly magnificent in April as large drifts of bluebells carpet the woodland floor.
The old Gorey/Courtown road runs through the West end of the Woodland. This is accessed from the Picnic Area. Follow the sign for the High Cross of Kilbride. After 140 metres the old Gorey road, running at right angles, is signposted. It runs down to the river, to the site of the old Ballinatray Bridge and the restored River Walk.
Work on the walks started in January 1999. Since then much work has been done. This was carried out by Greenworks and a team of dedicated FÁS trainees, (from the County Wexford Partnership CE scheme). Training was supplied by CVI and Greenworks. The FÁS team is now highly skilled and much of the restoration is due to their dilligence.
