Carrickgollogan Forest & Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney - Image 1
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Carrickgollogan Forest and Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney

4.6
·52 reviews·, Ireland

Explore Carrickgollogan Forest and witness the iconic Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney, a unique industrial relic amidst stunning natural beauty and coas...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
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Carrickgollogan Forest & Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney - Image 1

Carrickgollogan Forest and Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney

Best Time

Spring and Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Carrickgollogan Forest and witness the iconic Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney, a unique industrial relic amidst stunning natural beauty and coastal views.

4.6
(52 reviews)

"A wonderful place to enjoy nature and spend some relaxing time outdoors."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Paths can be steep and uneven; wear good walking shoes for a comfortable and safe hike. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Chimney

The chimney is a unique sight, but not climbable. Focus on its impressive structure and surroundings. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney

Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney

Center of Carrickgollogan Forest

An iconic, towering industrial relic set amidst vibrant natural beauty. A unique photo opportunity.

Panoramic Coastal Views

Panoramic Coastal Views

Higher points of Carrickgollogan Forest

Breathtaking vistas stretching out over the coast, especially stunning when the gorse is in bloom.

Vibrant Gorse Bloom

Vibrant Gorse Bloom

Throughout Carrickgollogan Forest

Fields of bright yellow gorse create a stunning, fragrant landscape, particularly beautiful in bloom.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hike

Carrickgollogan offers beautiful, fresh air and peaceful hiking trails. While the iconic Ballycorus Chimney is a unique sight, the real draw is the immersive nature experience. Wear sturdy shoes as some paths can be steep and uneven, especially the final approach to the chimney.

Chimney Access & Views

The Ballycorus Chimney is a striking industrial relic, but it's not climbable due to safety concerns. Focus on enjoying the surrounding vibrant gorse and panoramic coastal views. The walk to the chimney is generally easy, though the last stretch can be through vegetation.

Best Times

When
Spring and Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Gorse in full bloom
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Paths can be steep and uneven; wear good walking shoes for a comfortable and safe hike. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Chimney

The chimney is a unique sight, but not climbable. Focus on its impressive structure and surroundings. :camerawithflash:

🚗 Parking at Rathmichael Fort

Car parking is available across the road, but note the low barrier may restrict van access. :car:

🌸 Enjoy the Gorse

Visit when the yellow gorse is blooming for a truly spectacular and fragrant natural display. :flowerplayingcards:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Paths can be steep and uneven; wear good walking shoes for a comfortable and safe hike. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Chimney

The chimney is a unique sight, but not climbable. Focus on its impressive structure and surroundings. :camerawithflash:

🚗 Parking at Rathmichael Fort

Car parking is available across the road, but note the low barrier may restrict van access. :car:

🌸 Enjoy the Gorse

Visit when the yellow gorse is blooming for a truly spectacular and fragrant natural display. :flowerplayingcards:

🚶‍♀️ Uneven Terrain Alert

The final approach to the chimney can be through vegetation and is not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(52 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Carrickgollogan Forest for its beautiful, fresh air and peaceful hiking trails, with the Ballycorus Chimney serving as a unique and interesting landmark. The vibrant gorse bloom adds to the scenic beauty, offering lovely coastal views. However, some note that the chimney itself is not climbable and the final approach can be steep and uneven, making it less accessible for all.

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We went hiking here and the area is absolutely beautiful. The air is fresh, it’s peaceful and quiet, and hiking there is really enjoyable. The Chimney itself isn’t particularly special, but it’s a nice goal for the walk. Overall, a wonderful place to enjoy nature and spend some relaxing time outdoors."

Artur Jozefiak

"Easy walk to the chimney, with the last few metres through vegetation. Not much to see, but you can go into the chimney. Just a unique structure in the middle of the park. Won't be driving down here just for the chimney. The walk in the park was easy."

Nee Shen Ho

"Nice walk up to the tower. A bit steep. Not wheelchair or buggy suitable. Tower is in beautiful setting surrounded by vibrant yellow gorse. Beautiful views. Tower not climbable as steps are broken & handrail is gone. We couldn't find the mine entrance, but will try again. Car parking is across the road in Rathmichael Fort. Low barrier though, so vans cannot access."

B R

What People Like

Beautiful natural scenery
Peaceful atmosphere
Unique chimney landmark

What People Dislike

Chimney not climbable
Uneven final approach

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The forest is accessible by car, with parking available at Rathmichael Fort across the road from the main entrance. It's also a pleasant walk from nearby areas like Cherrywood, taking about 20 minutes. :car: :walking:

While direct public transport to the forest entrance is limited, you can take buses to nearby Cherrywood and then enjoy a walk to the site. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information. :bus:

From the Rathmichael Fort parking, it's an easy walk towards the chimney. The final meters might involve navigating through vegetation, so be prepared for slightly uneven terrain. :hiking_boot:

Cycling is permitted in Carrickgollogan Forest, offering a great way to explore the trails and enjoy the scenery. :mountain_bicyclist:

Absolutely! Carrickgollogan Forest is an excellent day trip destination from Dublin, offering a refreshing escape into nature with its unique historical landmark. :city_sunrise:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Carrickgollogan Forest and access to the Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney are free of charge. Enjoy the natural beauty and historical site without any admission fees. :moneywithwings:

Carrickgollogan Forest is generally open from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the space throughout daylight hours. Always check for any seasonal or event-related closures. :clock1:

There is no entrance fee to view the Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney. It stands as a historical monument within the public forest. :free:

Unfortunately, the steps inside the Ballycorus Chimney are broken and the handrail is gone, making it unsafe to climb. Visitors can admire it from the outside. :noentrysign:

Currently, there are no official guided tours advertised for Carrickgollogan Forest or the Ballycorus Chimney. It's best explored independently. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find the impressive Ballycorus Lead Mines Chimney, beautiful walking trails, vibrant gorse bushes, and lovely coastal views. It's a great spot for nature lovers and history buffs. :foresttree: :camerawith_flash:

The main paths are generally easy for walking, but the final approach to the chimney can be steep and uneven, making it less suitable for buggies or very young children. :stroller:

Facilities are minimal. While it's a great spot for a picnic amidst nature, there are no dedicated restrooms or picnic tables within the forest itself. :picnic_table:

You might encounter various bird species and small mammals. The vibrant flora, especially the gorse, also attracts insects. :bird: :butterfly:

The walk to the chimney from the parking area is relatively short, typically taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace and the exact route taken. :stopwatch:

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The Ballycorus Chimney itself is a prime subject. Also, capture the sweeping coastal views and the vibrant yellow gorse, especially when in bloom. Golden hour offers beautiful light. :camerawithflash: :sunrise:

Yes, the chimney is a striking structure. Try different angles, including wide shots to show its scale against the landscape and closer shots to highlight its industrial details. :camera:

Mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. :sunwithface:

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and Coillte (the forestry service) guidelines before flying a drone in the area. :drone:

For the chimney, consider using a wider aperture (lower f-number) to isolate it from the background or a narrower aperture (higher f-number) for a sharper landscape. Experiment with exposure to capture details in both bright and shadowed areas. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Carrickgollogan Forest offers a great outdoor adventure for families, with the Ballycorus Chimney serving as an exciting landmark. While the main paths are generally manageable, be aware that the final approach to the chimney can be steep and uneven, so it might be challenging for strollers or very young children. It's best to carry toddlers or use a sturdy carrier. The open spaces are perfect for kids to explore and burn off energy, and the vibrant gorse in bloom provides a beautiful natural spectacle. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenery, as facilities are limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who love a good hike and appreciate natural beauty, Carrickgollogan is a gem. The trails offer a refreshing escape with clean air and peaceful surroundings. The walk to the Ballycorus Chimney is a rewarding goal, and the panoramic coastal views from higher points are a significant draw. Don't miss the chance to see the forest carpeted in yellow gorse during its blooming season. Remember to wear appropriate footwear due to the varied terrain. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Carrickgollogan Forest a unique subject. The Ballycorus Chimney provides a striking architectural element against the natural landscape. Capture its imposing structure from various angles. The vibrant yellow gorse, especially in bloom, offers fantastic opportunities for colorful shots. The coastal vistas also present beautiful backdrops, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Ballycorus Lead Mines

The Ballycorus Lead Mines, established in the mid-19th century, were once a significant industrial site in Ireland. The distinctive chimney, built in 1880, served as a crucial part of the smelting process, venting toxic fumes away from the workers and the surrounding environment. The mine operated for several decades, contributing to the local economy but also leaving a legacy of industrial heritage.

Today, the chimney stands as a solitary monument to this past. While the mine itself is no longer active, the towering structure remains a focal point within Carrickgollogan Forest. Visitors can learn about the area's industrial past by exploring the site and imagining the bustling activity that once took place here. It's a tangible link to Ireland's industrial revolution and a reminder of the land's former use.

Explorers often search for remnants of the mine itself, though much of it has been reclaimed by nature. The chimney's imposing presence, however, ensures the history of Ballycorus is not forgotten. It's a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial archaeology. Reddit

Exploring Carrickgollogan Forest Trails

Carrickgollogan Forest offers a network of walking trails that cater to various fitness levels. The most popular route leads directly to the Ballycorus Chimney, providing a clear objective for a hike. These paths wind through diverse landscapes, from open heathland dotted with vibrant gorse to more sheltered woodland areas.

The terrain can vary, with some sections being relatively flat and easy, while others become steeper and more rugged, particularly as you approach the chimney. This unevenness means sturdy footwear is highly recommended. The forest is particularly stunning in late spring and early summer when the yellow gorse blooms, creating a spectacular visual display and filling the air with a sweet fragrance.

Many visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the fresh air, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk or a more invigorating hike. The combination of natural beauty and historical interest makes Carrickgollogan a rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Reddit

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