The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Oughaval Wood

A great example of the old stone footbridges that provide crossing points across the Grand Canal. A walk from nearby Athy to Milltown Bridge and back makes for an accessible and enjoyable route.

The Barrow Blueway is a shared use gravel bath next to the Grand Canal - Barrow Line. It's a peaceful and well-maintained path, puncutated by quaint stone foot bridges. Respect other users, especially at busy times like the weekend.

Ballymanus Bridge is a pretty stone footbridge, one of many on the Grand Canal - Barrow Line. Walking the quiet Barrow Blueway between the bridges is a peaceful way to spend a few hours.

Athy is a quaint and picturesque town in County Kildare, Ireland, that offers visitors a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and traditional Irish charm. The town is perhaps best known for White's Castle, a striking 15th-century tower house built to protect the strategic river crossing. Situated on the east bank of the River Barrow, the castle is a prominent feature that adds to Athy's historic atmosphere. The town's centerpiece is the Crom-a-Boo Bridge, a sturdy stone bridge dating back to the late 18th century, which leads directly into the heart of Athy. The bridge, coupled with the river's tranquil flow and the surrounding greenery, creates a serene and scenic environment perfect for a leisurely stroll. Athy's streets are lined with traditional pubs and shops, offering visitors the chance to soak in the typically Irish flair of this small town.

Rock-cut stoup

In loving memory of Paddy Byrne, The Green, Stradbally 5th March 1962 - 26th August 2011 Paddy walked these woods every day with his wife Jillian and his dog Barney He loved this special place. Forever loved and missed

The Mass Rock in Blane's Wood, is a historic site that holds significant religious and cultural importance. Located within the Oughaval Wood, the Mass Rock was used for secret Catholic masses during the Penal Laws in the 17th and 18th centuries, when the practice of Catholicism was prohibited. The Mass Rock is nestled in the center of the forest, hidden from view, and a stone cross was erected nearby in 1957 to mark the site. Mass is still celebrated at the Mass Rock on occasion, and an altar and seating were added in the year 2000 to facilitate these services.

Nestled in the scenic embrace of the Irish southwest, Athym is a small town that whispers the tales of centuries gone by. Steeped in history, this charming enclave is adorned with numerous historical attractions that stand as testaments to its rich past. Wandering through Athym, you'll find yourself transported through time. The cobblestone streets echo with the footsteps of those who came before, and the architecture tells stories of eras long past. Perhaps you'll stumble upon ancient castles, their stones weathered by the passage of time but still echoing with the grandeur of their heyday. In this small town, time slows down, inviting you to savor every moment and appreciate the intricate tapestry of Ireland's cultural heritage. Athym, with its historical allure, is not just a destination but a journey into the heart of Ireland's past.