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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning foliage colors

Curraghchase Forest Park
Best Time
Stunning foliage colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover serene woodlands, historic ruins, and picturesque lakes at Curraghchase Forest Park, a natural escape near Limerick.
"An absolute gem of a park, it's very peaceful here and tranquil."

🚗 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

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
Near the campsite
A fun-filled space for kids with a playground and a magical fairy trail to spark imagination.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Entry Fee
Trail Variety and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
☕ Cafe Stop
The Potting Shed Café at the Garden Centre offers refreshments after your walk.
📸 Capture the Ruins
Don't miss the atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House, a popular spot for photographers.
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.
🚶♀️ Buggy-Friendly Trails
The 1km lakeside loop is perfect for strollers and young children. Longer trails may be more challenging.
☕ Cafe Stop
The Potting Shed Café at the Garden Centre offers refreshments after your walk.
📸 Capture the Ruins
Don't miss the atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House, a popular spot for photographers.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a family outing with your furry friend.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Currently, there are no specific discounts mentioned for locals or frequent visitors. The €5 fee is standard for all vehicles entering the park.
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.
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.
No, there is no additional charge for bringing dogs into Curraghchase Forest Park, provided they are kept on a lead and are well-behaved.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas throughout the park, offering beautiful spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
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.
The atmospheric ruins of Curraghchase House are a key feature of the park and are accessible via walking trails.
Expect a diverse landscape including mature woodlands, rolling parkland, serene lakes, and the historic house ruins. It's particularly beautiful during autumn.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Potting Shed Café is located at the Curraghchase Garden Centre, near the park entrance, offering refreshments and light meals.
While not explicitly stated, BBQs are generally discouraged in public parks to prevent fires. It's best to stick to picnics.
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.
The Potting Shed Café offers brunch, breakfast, and lunch options, often featuring local produce.
Snacks are best brought with you, as options within the park are limited to the café at the garden centre.
📸 📸 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.
Drone usage is generally permitted in Coillte forests, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape photography. Misty mornings can also create a magical atmosphere.
The viewpoints along the lakeside trail and from higher ground overlooking the park offer excellent panoramic photo opportunities.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Curraghchase
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.
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.
The History and Mystery of Curraghchase House
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. 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.
Family Fun and Camping at Curraghchase
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. 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.
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.
Social
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