What makes Courtown Woods so special
Across the European Union on average most countries have 33.5% of their land under forest. In Ireland, it is only 11%. Of that 11% only a measly 2% is native forest. Of that 2% only a shocking 0.02% is ancient woodland.
Courtown Woodland is ancient woodland.
For centuries is was a wooded shelter for rebels and bandits, When Cromwell planted seized the Norman and Irish Strongholds, this woodland became part of a new estate, under the ownership of Earl Stopford, Lord of Courtown.
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
But it was the 5th Earl, who we have to thank for the woodlands today. During his time, he planted 400 rare and unusual species of trees, he oversaw the building of Ballinatray Bridge and the construction of Courtown Harbour.
The High Cross of Kilbride
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
The Chestnut Walk
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
Ounanvarra River
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
A kind and liberal landlord, these woods were always open to his tenants; for foraging, firewood, medicinal plants and simple recreation. Locals referred to it as “gathering bresna” Though there were limits to what he permitted. For example, fishing and hunting were more often conducted on dark nights!
But his Lordship ensured the 5th Century Highcross was left untouched, including it on his plotted walks and marking it on the estate maps. He commissioned Ballinatray Bridge as a Famine Relief project, at the time of construction it was the 3rd highest bridge in Ireland and even today it is still a fine piece of engineering and craftsmanship to admire from below!
The Beech Grove
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
As a Custodian of the Woods Lord Courtown carefully recorded what was found by the groundskeepers. Which includes the remnants of a Bronze Age Cist Tomb, Stone tools, and flint arrowheads. Many of which are now in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin. Though the barrel of guns found by accident during the civil war is said to remain hidden, buried somewhere amongst the trees!
Californian Redwoods
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
As you venture down into the Ounavara valley, you will notice an abundance of ferns enjoying the cool damp conditions. This area is reminiscent of the Celtic Rainforest that once covered this island, and along the river bank there are a number of ancient yews and a simply magnificently huge Lebanese Cedar completing that almost primal feeling.
Ancient woodlands are set apart from others as they include certain “indicator plants” and hee in Courtown there are many, from the bluebells and wild garlic in the Spring to the hard ferns and pendulous sedge on the forest floor to the barnacle lichen growing on certain older trees that can be seen year round.
It is also home to number of rare or endangered species, like the Common Frog and the Woodpecker.
Photo Credit Chris Parkes Photography
You don’t need a guide to tell you how special this woodlands is, just wandering a few minutes down one of the many paths will have you enchanted. I would encourage anyone to explore it and absorb the wonderful calming energy of this magical place. but if you want someone to peel back the layer of history, to show you its secrets, then come gallivanting some day with me!
“We moved to Gorey just a year ago and have enjoyed walking in Courtown Woods during lockdown. Every visit brought up questions about the trees, the river, the bridges and the history of the place so we were delighted to find we could take a guided walk to learn more. And what a walk it was!
Lorraine is truly magical in her ability to connect her guests with the heart and soul of the woodland. Irish tree and plant names, stories from the dawn of time and the tasting of leaves and stems - food here for body, mind and spirit.”
Rita - Wexford