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Curraghchase Forest Park

4.6
·224 reviews·Toreen, Ireland

Discover serene woodlands, historic ruins, and picturesque lakes at Curraghchase Forest Park, a natural escape near Limerick.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Stunning foliage colors

CrowdMedium
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Curraghchase ducks

Curraghchase Forest Park

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Stunning foliage colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover serene woodlands, historic ruins, and picturesque lakes at Curraghchase Forest Park, a natural escape near Limerick.

4.6
(224 reviews)

"An absolute gem of a park, it's very peaceful here and tranquil."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Pay for Parking

A €5 fee per vehicle is charged for entry. Consider it an investment in this beautiful natural escape.

🚶‍♀️ Buggy-Friendly Trails

The 1km lakeside loop is perfect for strollers and young children. Longer trails may be more challenging.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Curraghchase House Ruins

Curraghchase House Ruins

Central park area

Explore the atmospheric 18th-century ruins of Curraghchase House, a poignant reminder of the past.

Lakeside Trail

Lakeside Trail

Around the main lake

An accessible 20-minute loop offering serene views of the lake and surrounding woodlands.

Autumn Foliage

Autumn Foliage

Throughout the park

Vibrant autumn colors transform the park into a breathtaking spectacle of reds, oranges, and yellows.

Children's Play Area & Fairy Trail

Children's Play Area & Fairy Trail

Near the campsite

A fun-filled space for kids with a playground and a magical fairy trail to spark imagination.

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Planning Your Visit

Parking and Entry Fee

A €5 per vehicle entry fee applies to Curraghchase Forest Park. While many find it a worthwhile cost for the natural beauty, some locals feel it's steep compared to free parks elsewhere. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.

Trail Variety and Accessibility

Curraghchase offers a range of walking trails, from a short 20-minute lakeside loop suitable for buggies to longer woodland paths. Consider the age and stamina of your group when choosing a route, as some longer walks might be challenging for very young children.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Stunning foliage colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Longer daylight, pleasant strolls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Curraghchase House 🏠 📍Located in Curraghchase Forest park . #abandonedplaces#curraghchase #drone #djimavic3pro #video #ireland #limerick #dji #irishexplorer
keithsoutdooradventures
25 likes • 1.1K views

🚗 Pay for Parking

A €5 fee per vehicle is charged for entry. Consider it an investment in this beautiful natural escape. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Buggy-Friendly Trails

The 1km lakeside loop is perfect for strollers and young children. Longer trails may be more challenging. Reddit

🍁🍂Foliage at Curragh Chase Forest Park 🍂🍁 📍Kilcornan, Co Limerick, Ireland #curraghchaseforestpark #curraghchase #limerick #countylimerick #visitireland #discoverireland #ilovelimerick #irelandtravel #destinationirelandphotography #foliage #autumncolors #autumnleaves #autumnmood #woodland #arboretum
marandmara
23 likes • 650 views
With over 700 acres of forest to explore there's something for everyone here in Curraghchase! Our campsite is nestled in the forest park surrounded by nature and beauty 🌲🌳 #curraghchasecampsite #curraghchasecaravanandcampingpark #curraghchase #campingireland #campingwithkids #campingwithkidsireland #dogfriendly #dogfriendlycampsite #limerick #thingstodoinlimerick
curraghchasecampsite
47 likes • 1.9K views

☕ Cafe Stop

The Potting Shed Café at the Garden Centre offers refreshments after your walk. Instagram

📸 Capture the Ruins

Don't miss the atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House, a popular spot for photographers. Instagram

‘I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers’ – L.M. Montgomery A misty morning stroll through #Curraghchase in Co. Limerick 🍃 🍁 🍂 Who else would like to be enjoying a peaceful wander through Curraghchase Forest Park or visiting the #PumpkinPatch in Curraghchase Garden Centre? #LimerickEdgeEmbrace #KeepDiscovering #autumn🍁🍂 #autumnvibes🍁 #october
limerick.ie
196 likes • 9.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Pay for Parking

A €5 fee per vehicle is charged for entry. Consider it an investment in this beautiful natural escape. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Buggy-Friendly Trails

The 1km lakeside loop is perfect for strollers and young children. Longer trails may be more challenging. Reddit

☕ Cafe Stop

The Potting Shed Café at the Garden Centre offers refreshments after your walk. Instagram

📸 Capture the Ruins

Don't miss the atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House, a popular spot for photographers. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Park

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a family outing with your furry friend. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(224 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Curraghchase Forest Park for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and variety of walking trails, making it a gem for nature lovers and families. However, some locals and visitors question the €5 entry fee, feeling it's high compared to free parks, especially given Limerick's limited free outdoor options.

"Just absolutely beautiful spot ,might be nervous if I was on my own as I was only person parked but my son and doggie were with me"

Clare Sexton

"I can't believe this place has such high reviews. When you look at value for money and other parks that are free, also considering that this area of limerick has very little good walks or parks with longer walks I think it's a crime to charge 5 euro to get in. Get your money off the visitors every year and stop charging the locals to enjoy their most local park. Limerick is so boring compared to other counties the one good thing in our area is not that nice and 5 euro when other much nicer parks are free we think it's outrageous to support this place."

Mantzy Vlogs

"An absolute gem of a park, it's very peaceful here and tranquil. Went today with my wife and baby. We all had a great time. We did the lakeside trail, which is only 20 mins. Then brought our baby to the kids playpark. We will return and do the next trail which is 30 mins. I highly recommend anyone to travel here and enjoy the scenery."

Michael Deady

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Peaceful atmosphere
Variety of trails

What People Dislike

Entry fee perceived as high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Curraghchase Forest Park is located about 20km from Limerick City. The easiest way to get there is by car, following signs for Kilcornan. Public transport options are limited, so driving is highly recommended for flexibility. Instagram

Yes, there is ample parking available within the park. A €5 per vehicle entry fee applies, which helps maintain the park's facilities and trails. Reddit

Cycling is permitted on designated paths within the park, offering a great way to explore the extensive grounds. Some areas are also suitable for mountain biking. Instagram

Absolutely! Curraghchase Forest Park is an ideal destination for a day trip, offering a variety of walking trails, picnic spots, and natural beauty to enjoy. Instagram

From Limerick City, take the N69 towards Foynes, then turn off for Kilcornan. The park is well-signposted from the main roads. Using a GPS or navigation app is advisable. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a €5 entry fee per vehicle. This fee contributes to the upkeep and maintenance of the park's trails and facilities. Reddit

Currently, there are no specific discounts mentioned for locals or frequent visitors. The €5 fee is standard for all vehicles entering the park. Reddit

The park is generally open from dawn till dusk. Specific opening and closing times can vary seasonally, so it's best to check local listings or Coillte's website if available. Instagram

Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the park. There is no need to book in advance, as it's a pay-on-entry system. Reddit

No, there is no additional charge for bringing dogs into Curraghchase Forest Park, provided they are kept on a lead and are well-behaved. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers several trails, including the 1km Lakeside Trail (buggy-friendly), a 3.6km woodland loop, and longer routes for more experienced hikers. The ruins of Curraghchase House are a must-see. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are designated picnic areas throughout the park, offering beautiful spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Instagram

Yes, there is a children's playpark located near the campsite, which is a great attraction for families. There's also a fairy trail nearby. InstagramReddit

The atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House are a key feature of the park and are accessible via walking trails. Instagram

Expect a diverse landscape including mature woodlands, rolling parkland, serene lakes, and the historic house ruins. It's particularly beautiful during autumn. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Potting Shed Café is located at the Curraghchase Garden Centre, near the park entrance, offering refreshments and light meals. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, BBQs are generally discouraged in public parks to prevent fires. It's best to stick to picnics. Instagram

The Potting Shed Café is the closest option. For more extensive dining, you would need to travel back towards nearby towns like Adare or Limerick City. Instagram

The Potting Shed Café offers brunch, breakfast, and lunch options, often featuring local produce. Instagram

Snacks are best brought with you, as options within the park are limited to the café at the garden centre. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The ruins of Curraghchase House offer dramatic and atmospheric shots. The lakeside views, especially during autumn, and the mature trees also make for stunning photographs. Instagram+1

Drone usage is generally permitted in Coillte forests, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape photography. Misty mornings can also create a magical atmosphere. Instagram+1

The viewpoints along the lakeside trail and from higher ground overlooking the park offer excellent panoramic photo opportunities. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Curraghchase Forest Park is a hit with families! The children's playpark and fairy trail are definite highlights, ensuring little ones are entertained. Reddit The 1km Lakeside Trail is perfect for buggies and short legs, offering beautiful views without being too strenuous. Reddit Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots. Instagram The campsite also offers a great base for a family adventure. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts

For solo visitors, Curraghchase offers a serene and safe environment to connect with nature. The well-marked trails, including the longer woodland routes, provide ample opportunity for peaceful exploration and reflection. InstagramReddit The atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House add a historical intrigue to your wanderings. Instagram While some may feel a bit isolated on longer trails, the general atmosphere is welcoming and the park is popular enough that you're unlikely to be completely alone. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Curraghchase Forest Park a rewarding location. The ruins of Curraghchase House are a prime subject, offering dramatic and moody shots, especially in soft light or mist. Instagram+1 The park's diverse landscapes, from serene lakes to dense woodlands, provide a variety of scenes. Autumn is a particularly spectacular time, with vibrant foliage creating a stunning palette. Instagram Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

Curraghchase Forest Park is a great destination for dog owners, as it's a dog-friendly location. Instagram Your canine companions can enjoy exploring the trails alongside you. Remember to keep them on a lead, especially near wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after them. The open spaces and varied terrain offer plenty of sniffing and exploring opportunities for your furry friends. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Curraghchase

Curraghchase Forest Park boasts a network of well-maintained walking trails catering to various fitness levels. The Lakeside Trail is a popular choice, a gentle 1km loop that circles the main lake, offering picturesque views and is perfectly suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Woodland Loop extends to 3.6km, taking you deeper into the mature forests and past historical points of interest. InstagramReddit

Beyond these marked routes, the park offers opportunities for more adventurous exploration. You can wander through the arboretum, discover hidden glades, and even try orienteering, as suggested by some visitors. The variety ensures that whether you're looking for a short, leisurely stroll or a longer hike, Curraghchase has a path for you. Remember to wear comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to tackle the longer, more rugged trails. Instagram

Many visitors highlight the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the park, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers. The diverse flora and fauna add to the experience, with opportunities to spot various bird species and enjoy the changing seasons. InstagramReddit

The History and Mystery of Curraghchase House

At the heart of Curraghchase Forest Park lie the evocative ruins of Curraghchase House. Originally built in 1657 by Vere Hunt, an officer in Cromwell's army, the house has a long and varied history. Instagram Over the centuries, it was expanded and modified, becoming a grand residence. However, by the mid-20th century, the house had fallen into disrepair and was eventually demolished, leaving behind the atmospheric skeletal remains that visitors can explore today. TikTok

The ruins themselves are a significant draw, offering a glimpse into the past and a sense of mystery. Photographers are particularly drawn to the dramatic interplay of stone, sky, and surrounding nature. Instagram Exploring the grounds around the house, you can imagine the life that once thrived here, adding a layer of historical depth to your visit. It's a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the stories held within the landscape.

While the house is no longer standing, its presence is strongly felt within the park. The surrounding estate grounds, now managed as a forest park, continue to be a place of beauty and reflection, preserving the legacy of the estate in a new form. Instagram

Family Fun and Camping at Curraghchase

Curraghchase Forest Park is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of natural exploration and dedicated children's activities. The children's playpark, located near the campsite, provides a safe and engaging space for kids to burn off energy. Adjacent to this is the enchanting fairy trail, which sparks the imagination of younger visitors and adds a touch of magic to the woodland experience. InstagramReddit

For families looking for an extended stay, the Curraghchase Campsite offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourselves in nature. It's described as dog-friendly and provides a base for exploring the park's many trails. Instagram Many families return year after year, highlighting the park's appeal for creating lasting memories. The accessibility of the Lakeside Trail also makes it easy for families with very young children or those using buggies to enjoy the scenery. Reddit

Beyond the dedicated facilities, the sheer expanse of the park, with its lakes and woodlands, provides endless opportunities for discovery. Picnics are a popular family activity, and the park's natural beauty serves as a stunning backdrop. Instagram

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