The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Oughaval Wood
4.1
(16)
91
hikers
8
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Oughaval Wood are set within a broadleaf woodland, characterized by varied terrain including forest roads, tracks, and paths. The area is situated on a ridge of Carboniferous Limestone, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. Hikers can experience both natural beauty and historical elements, with viewing points providing vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Oughaval Wood
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Cobbler’s Castle loop from Stradbally Hall, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 44 minutes to complete. This route encircles the wood, passing near the site of the Cobbler's Castle folly.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hiking loop from Stradbally Hall, an easy 2.8 miles (4.5 km) path. This trail offers a pleasant walk through the woodland environment.
- Local hikers also love the Mass Rock, Oughaval Wood – Rock-Cut Stoup loop from Stradbally Hall, a 1.5 miles (2.4 km) trail leading through the forest to a historical Mass Rock, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Oughaval Wood is defined by broadleaf woodlands, historical sites, and varied paths, with options for different ability levels. The network includes easy family friendly hiking trails suitable for casual strollers.
- The routes in Oughaval Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.1 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore Oughaval Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.4
(5)
35
hikers
6.27km
01:44
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
4.45km
01:14
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12.5km
03:10
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
21.6km
05:28
40m
40m
Hike the difficult 13.4-mile Barrow Way from Athy to Maganey Lower, following the scenic River Barrow past historic locks and mills.
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Tips from the Community
Nice friendly cafe, open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day, serving tasty coffee, drinks, cake and savoury snacks. Well worth a stop to refuel!
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Excellent food and service. Warm and friendly, highly recommended
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Athy is a quaint and picturesque town in County Kildare, Ireland, that offers visitors a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and traditional Irish charm. The town is perhaps best known for White's Castle, a striking 15th-century tower house built to protect the strategic river crossing. Situated on the east bank of the River Barrow, the castle is a prominent feature that adds to Athy's historic atmosphere. The town's centerpiece is the Crom-a-Boo Bridge, a sturdy stone bridge dating back to the late 18th century, which leads directly into the heart of Athy. The bridge, coupled with the river's tranquil flow and the surrounding greenery, creates a serene and scenic environment perfect for a leisurely stroll. Athy's streets are lined with traditional pubs and shops, offering visitors the chance to soak in the typically Irish flair of this small town.
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In loving memory of Paddy Byrne, The Green, Stradbally 5th March 1962 - 26th August 2011 Paddy walked these woods every day with his wife Jillian and his dog Barney He loved this special place. Forever loved and missed
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The Mass Rock in Blane's Wood, is a historic site that holds significant religious and cultural importance. Located within the Oughaval Wood, the Mass Rock was used for secret Catholic masses during the Penal Laws in the 17th and 18th centuries, when the practice of Catholicism was prohibited. The Mass Rock is nestled in the center of the forest, hidden from view, and a stone cross was erected nearby in 1957 to mark the site. Mass is still celebrated at the Mass Rock on occasion, and an altar and seating were added in the year 2000 to facilitate these services.
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Nestled in the scenic embrace of the Irish southwest, Athym is a small town that whispers the tales of centuries gone by. Steeped in history, this charming enclave is adorned with numerous historical attractions that stand as testaments to its rich past. Wandering through Athym, you'll find yourself transported through time. The cobblestone streets echo with the footsteps of those who came before, and the architecture tells stories of eras long past. Perhaps you'll stumble upon ancient castles, their stones weathered by the passage of time but still echoing with the grandeur of their heyday. In this small town, time slows down, inviting you to savor every moment and appreciate the intricate tapestry of Ireland's cultural heritage. Athym, with its historical allure, is not just a destination but a journey into the heart of Ireland's past.
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Monasterevin is a wonderful town that lies on the River Barrow in County Kildare. The area has so many bridges that it has been named the 'Venice of Ireland'. Whilst you're here check out Moore Abbey Wood and the Gerard Manley Hopkins Monument. There are also numerous great restaurants and pubs where you can relax and refuel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Oughaval Wood?
Our guide features five easy family-friendly hiking routes directly within or starting near Oughaval Wood, perfect for exploring with children. There is also one more challenging route for older, more adventurous families.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes in Oughaval Wood?
Oughaval Wood is a beautiful broadleaf woodland situated on a ridge of Carboniferous Limestone, offering diverse landscapes. You'll find pleasant forest roads, tracks, and paths, with viewing points that provide splendid vistas of the surrounding countryside. The varied terrain makes for an engaging walk for all ages.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest suitable for families to explore?
Absolutely! Oughaval Wood is rich in history. You can visit the significant Mass Rock, a clandestine place of worship during Penal times, which is accessible via routes like the Mass Rock, Oughaval Wood – Rock-Cut Stoup loop from Stradbally Hall. The wood also features old estate stone walls and is near the site of the Cobbler's Castle folly, which you can explore on the Cobbler’s Castle loop from Stradbally Hall.
Are the trails in Oughaval Wood suitable for dogs?
Yes, Oughaval Wood is generally dog-friendly. The Mass Rock Walk, for example, is specifically noted as being dog-friendly. Many of the trails are forest paths, which are ideal for walks with your canine companions, provided they are kept under control.
Are there any circular routes for families in Oughaval Wood?
Yes, several of the family-friendly routes are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. The Cobbler’s Castle loop from Stradbally Hall and the Hiking loop from Stradbally Hall are great examples of easy circular options.
What is the best time of year to visit Oughaval Wood with family?
Oughaval Wood is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for family hikes. In spring, you'll see new growth and wildflowers, while autumn brings stunning foliage. Summer is also great for longer days, and even winter walks can be magical, though some paths might be muddier.
Are there any accessible trails for strollers or wheelchairs in Oughaval Wood?
While not all trails are fully accessible, parts of the Mass Rock Walk are noted as being wheelchair-friendly. It's always a good idea to check specific trail conditions if you require full accessibility, but many of the wider forest paths can be suitable for sturdy strollers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Oughaval Wood?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful broadleaf woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the blend of natural beauty with interesting historical sites like the Mass Rock and the Cobbler's Castle folly.
Where can we park when visiting Oughaval Wood for a family hike?
Parking is typically available near the main entrances to Oughaval Wood, often close to Stradbally Hall, which serves as a common starting point for many of the looped walks. Always check local signage for designated parking areas.
Are there any longer routes for families with older children or more hiking experience?
Yes, for families seeking a longer adventure, the guide includes The Barrow Way. While listed as 'difficult' due to its 21.6 km length, it offers a different kind of experience for more experienced hikers or older children looking for a full-day challenge, though it's not directly within Oughaval Wood itself.
Can we find refreshments or amenities near the family trails in Oughaval Wood?
Oughaval Wood itself is a natural area, so amenities like cafes or shops are not directly on the trails. However, the nearby town of Stradbally offers options for refreshments and other services before or after your family hike.
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