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Rathmichael Wood: A Blend of Nature and Ancient History

Discover ancient ruins and scenic views in this peaceful Dublin woodland, a perfect escape into nature and history.

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Explore Rathmichael Wood in Dublin, a serene nature preserve with historical significance. Discover the remains of an ancient hillfort, a 12th-century cross, and enjoy panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the surrounding landscape. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and a glimpse into Ireland's past.

A brief summary to Rathmichael Wood

  • Woodside, Puck's Castle Ln, Dublin 18, Shankill, IE

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate footwear as the trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the hillfort.
  • Keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife and respect other visitors.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Shankill village for a meal or refreshments.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Dublin city center, take the N11/M11 southbound. Exit for Shankill. Follow signs for Shankill and then for Puck's Castle Lane. A small car park is available at the entrance to Rathmichael Wood on Puck's Castle Lane. Parking is free, but spaces are limited, especially on weekends.

  • Public Transport

    From Dublin city center, take the DART train to Shankill. From Shankill DART station, you can take a bus (7, E1, 111, L14, X2) or walk to Rathmichael Wood. The bus will drop you closer to Puck's Castle Lane, while the walk is approximately 2.5 km (30 minutes). A single bus fare within Dublin typically costs around €2-€3.

  • Walking

    From Shankill village, head west towards Stonebridge Road, then turn left at the roundabout, crossing the M50. Continue straight through the next roundabout, passing Rathmichael Church. Puck's Castle Lane will be on your right. Follow Puck's Castle Lane to the entrance of Rathmichael Wood. The walk from Shankill village is approximately 2.5 km and takes around 30 minutes.

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Discover more about Rathmichael Wood

Rathmichael Wood, located in Shankill, Dublin 18, offers a tranquil escape into nature with a rich tapestry of historical and archaeological sites. The wood itself features a mix of coniferous and broadleaved trees, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, including foxes, pygmy shrews, and Sika deer. The area's history stretches back to the Late Bronze Age, with the remains of Rathmichael Hillfort still visible on the hilltop. This ancient enclosure, once a significant gathering place, offers stunning views north over Dublin Bay, east towards Killiney and Dalkey, and south towards Bray Head and the Little Sugar Loaf. Within the wood, you can also find a 12th-century Fassore cross, a boundary marker adorned with a simple crucifixion scene. This cross marks the entrance to the old Rathmichael Church, a National Monument believed to have been founded by St. Comgall of Bangor in the 6th century. The church ruins include the remains of a round tower, known locally as 'The Skull Hole,' which once served as a repository for skulls and bones from the graveyard. Rathmichael Wood offers a looped walk of 1.7km, taking approximately 30 minutes to complete. The trail is considered moderate, with a 40-meter climb, and is waymarked in green. It also connects to the Dublin Mountains Way, marked in yellow, for those seeking a longer hike.

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