Shillelagh · County Wicklow

Tomnafinogue Woods

Last verified May 2026 · Trail open

Tomnafinnoge Woods is one of Ireland's last surviving ancient oak woodlands, set between Tinahely and Shillelagh in south Wicklow. Several waymarked Coillte trails begin from the car park — Hazel (1.5 km), Oak (3.5 km) and River (4 km return) — and most walkers combine sections to make a 4–4.5 km loop in about an hour at a relaxed pace. Easy forest tracks with boardwalk sections; ideal for families and nature lovers.

4.2 km
Distance
1h 15m
Typical time
70 m
Climb
Easy
Difficulty
forest
Type
Waymarking: Unmarked
Route on map

Where this walk goes

Start point shown — click the marker to get directions. Zoom in to explore the area.

Why you'll like it

Highlights of this walk

  • One of Ireland's last surviving ancient oak woodlands
  • Beautiful twisted oak trees and peaceful riverside scenery
  • Spring displays of bluebells, wild garlic and wood anemone
  • Easy-to-follow Coillte waymarked trails
  • Ideal for families, casual walkers and nature lovers
Route & directions

How to walk it

Park at the Tomnafinnoge Woods car park between Tinahely and Shillelagh. Three waymarked trails begin from the car park: the Hazel Walk (red arrows, 1.5 km, family-friendly), the Oak Walk (green arrows, 3.5 km, the main loop through ancient oak woodland with gentle inclines) and the River Walk (blue arrows, 4 km return, peaceful riverside walking along the Derry River). Most walkers combine sections to make a walk of around 4–4.5 km, allowing 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes at a relaxed pace. Forest tracks and boardwalk sections — some muddy patches after rain.

Local tips

  • Wear proper footwear in wet weather as parts of the trail can become muddy
  • Early mornings are usually the quietest time to visit
  • Watch for deer, squirrels, robins, chaffinches and other woodland birds
  • Kingfishers and herons sometimes spotted along the Derry River
  • Tinahely and Shillelagh nearby for coffee or lunch afterwards
  • More on the village: Visit Tinahely — accommodation, food and local tips
  • Connects with the Tinahely Railway Walk if you want to extend your walk
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Where to stay

Accommodation near this walk

Madeline's Accommodation

Tinahely Town Square · south Wicklow

A beautifully restored historic guesthouse on the Square in Tinahely — the Wicklow Way passes through the village. Double, twin and small-double rooms, all with private bathrooms. Self-service coded entry — arrive when it suits you.

Guesthouse Private Bathrooms Keypad Entry Village Centre On the Wicklow Way

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