Here’s one for the locals. If its one of those Sunday afternoons and you don’t want to make a huge effort – you know the feeling – Glendalough is a bit too far, The Sugar Loaf is a bit too steep and the Bray – Greystones walk is a bit too long – then you could head to Druid’s Glen for their 6km walking trail. Well its not actually a 6km trail – to date its not a loop unfortunately but a 3km trail out and back.
There’s plenty of parking at the hotel. You can start with lunch or finish with afternoon tea or a pint – its not the cheapest place to eat or drink but you can always bring a picnic if you’re organised enough.
The trail starts right beside the hotel and skirts around the famous Druid’s Glen golf course.
The trail is well marked and very easy going.
The route is marked with ten information boards.
As you round a bend on the trail, you are almost overcome by the scent of fresh pine – this is the mulching area where all green waste from the trees and shrubs is run through a wood chipper and left to allow for the natural breaking down process before being returned to the flower beds and tree bases in the parkland.
This giant sycamore maple tree is estimated at 300 years old.
You can see the Sugar Loaf in the distance…..
…..and glimpses of the Irish Sea.
The first of the daffodils are in bloom.
Water hazards are not the only problem for the golfers!
The gatekeeper’s lodge was built around 1850.
Woodstock House was built in the 1700’s. It passed through many hands until restored in 1995 and now serves as the Druid Glen Golf Clubhouse.
Trivia of the Day!
Over the years, the property has served as a writing and recording base for musicians. Mike Oldfield recorded Tubular Bells 11 here, while Steve Winwood, Rod Stewart, the Thompson Twins and many others also used the facilities.
Its a nice place to bring family – there is a fairy forest, picnic facilities and a playground.
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Other Stuff
Getting There: Druid’s Glen is located close to the village of Kilcoole – about 37km from Dublin city centre.
Food and Drink: The Druid Glen bar menu offers sandwiches, pastas, pizzas etc. We had fish tacos (€16.50) and the burger (€18.50) both served with fries. Afternoon tea starts at €32.
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