A walk in the woods or local forest is wonderful at any time of year, but there’s something extra special and magical once the bluebells make an appearance. We don’t know whether it’s the nostalgia from our own childhood’s or the wonder in our children’s eyes, but there’s definitely something about the bluebells!
Thanks to everyone giving amazing recommendations from around the Country, we are sharing some of the best spots to take in the awe and beauty of these native flowers.
- DERREEN WOODS, CO. ROSCOMMON
Known locally as ‘Bluebell Woods’, Derreen Woods is a must visit if you’re in Roscommon or neighbouring Counties. A beautiful woodland with a well, fairy fort and church and lots of places to stop for a picnic.
- GLENDALOUGH, CO. WICKLOW
Glendalough is renowned for its natural beauty, and it’s even more of a delight once the bluebells appear. Worth noting that The National Park also run educational nature talks for adults and kids. The Derrybawn Woodland Trail [orange] is said to be the best for checking out bluebells! Its a long walk so perhaps a taster amount of it if you have smallies!
- JENKINSTOWN WOODS, KILKENNY
A beautiful woodland covered in a wide range of broad leaf and ever greens. Plenty of options for walking and The Walled Garden is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic before or after your walk.
- KILLINTHOMAS WOODS, CO. KILDARE
With over 200 acres to explore and over 10km of signposted walks, there’s something for everyone in this enchanted forest. Picnic tables and benches throughout, so it’s an ideal location for a family day out. There is a little path so it would be buggy friendly, however it’s not paved so it can get mucky in wet and damp weather.
- LISSADELL WOODS, CO. SLIGO
The woodlands around Lissadell House are a gorgeous place to see the bluebells bloom at this time of year. There is a public walking track through the woods which runs along the beach. You can also see a fabulous view of Knocknarea.
- MOORE ABBEY, CO. KILDARE
There are many pathways, picnic spots and walking routes here which make it ideal for families with kids of all ages. There is a specific Bluebell Way Walking Trail which has access for all, is 2.5km in length and take approximately 40 minutes.
- MULLAGHREELAN, CO. KILDARE
A beautiful old woodland estate, Mullaghreelan Woods has loads of paths, some hills and a few picnic spots – perfect for spending time with kids outside. The woods adjoins Kilkea Castle and has gorgeous views.
- RAHEEN WOODS, CASTLEBAR, CO. MAYO
There is a 1.8km looped walk with signs along the route. Considered to be a nice, easy walk with kids and another great place to take in the sight of the gorgeous bluebells.
- COURTMACSHERRY WOODS, WEST CORK
One of the most well known bluebell walks in West Cork, this is a sight to behold. Parking is past The Courtmacsherry Hotel and the walk takes you along part of The Seven Heads Peninsula Walk. It’s a short picturesque walk which is suitable for all ages.
- DROMKEEN WOODS, INNISHANNON, WEST CORK
A beautiful woodland walk on the outskirts of Innishannon, it is very popular with local and visiting families. It is steep so a carrier would be more suitable than a buggy! There are picnic tables for something to eat before or after your walk, and benches while walking. Keep an eye out for the fairies!
- FALLS HOTEL, ENNISTYMON, CO. CLARE
Nestled in a mature woodlands beside the River Inagh, there is a beautiful array of bluebells as well as the eighteenth century mansion and a medieval castle. A fabulous morning of exploring!
- CLOGRENNANE WOODS, CARLOW
A beautiful looped walk in the hills above Carlow Town. It is considered to be an easy trails so is suitable for kids and has picnic benches for the obligatory stops and snacks!
- MOTE PARK, CO. ROSCOMMON
There are two marked trails in Mote Park, including the Bluebell Loop Trail. A wonderful amenity for locals and for visitors alike. Definitely one to add to the family list!
- BALLYANNAN WOODS, MIDLETON, EAST CORK
This is a beautiful woods that combines old carriage paths and forest trails. A great way to enjoy the bluebells and the opportunities to enjoy the views of the estuary. There are a number of historical features also such as old stone walls and pillars, ruined cottages and boathouses that are visible as you explore the wood.
- DOWNHILL DEMESNE, DERRY
Nestled in the ruins of Downhill House, this is a stunning landscape with magnificent clifftop walks and headland views across the North Coast. A beautiful home for bluebells at this time of year.
- RINVILLE PARK, GALWAY
Rinville Park has a popular looped walk that is just over 2km and is considered to be an easy walk. The park also has picnic areas and a playground. A very popular spot, just 5 minutes from Oranmore.
And there we have it! The top spots that came highly recommended for enjoying the wonderful sight of bluebells in April / May.
Be sure to let us know if your favourite or hidden gem is missing!
Happy strolling and exploring.
*All images shared in good faith. Please let us know of any additional references.
