Add this to your list of autumn walks.

Kilworth Community Council, in collaboration with Coillte and the Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, has officially opened the new walking trails in Glansheskin Woods, Kilworth, Co. Cork.

The launch was performed by Minister Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State for Community Development, Charities and Rural Transport, over the weekend.

The project marks an exciting milestone for the Kilworth community. In 2023, the Council was awarded €16,000 in funding through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), enabling the development of new trails that expand and enhance Glansheskin Woods as a recreational destination for all to enjoy.

Today, Glansheskin Woods forms part of the Blackwater Way (Avondhu) Trail Network, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the area further, including a visit to the stunning Ballard Waterfall.

In addition to the Blackwater Way long-distance walking trail, which runs through the length of Glansheskin Wood to the waterfall and further to Clogheen, five new looped walks within the woods include the Douglas Loop (1.2 km), the Glansheskin Loop (2.4 km), the Graigue Loop (5.0 km) and the Toor Loop (7.1 km).

A key feature is the Douglas River that flows through the wooded glen, joining the Araglin and feeding into the River Blackwater on its way to Youghal. Home to otters, salmon, trout and lamprey, for generations, many local children and adults alike have enjoyed paddling in its waters beside the picnic green – a local tradition that continues today.

A hidden gem…

Tucked away along the main walking path lies a hidden gem — the Glansheskin Well. You’ll find it between the two car parks, just after passing the first car park and crossing the stone bridge. Keep an eye out for a small path on your right; follow it for about ten to twenty metres, and you’ll come upon the well itself.

Here, crystal-clear water bubbles gently from the earth, forming a cool, refreshing trickle that winds into a tiny stream. It’s a quiet, easily missed spot — but pause for a moment, and you’ll find it’s one of the most peaceful places along the trail.