Dún a Rí Forest Park: A Realm of History and Nature

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Discover a blend of history and nature at Dún a Rí Forest Park in County Cavan, with scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and ancient ruins.

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Dún a Rí Forest Park

Dún a Rí Forest Park, near Kingscourt in County Cavan, is a 565-acre haven of woodlands, rivers, and trails steeped in Irish legend and history. Explore the ruins of Fleming's Castle, wander along the Cabra River, and immerse yourself in the park's diverse wildlife and flora.

A brief summary to Dún a Rí Forest Park

R179, Kingscourt, Cabra, Co. Cavan, IE
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Local tips

Wear appropriate footwear for walking the trails, as some paths can be uneven or muddy.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas within the park.
Keep dogs on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and other visitors.
Bring your card for the €5 parking fee, as the park operates a cashless payment system.

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Getting There

Walking

From the center of Kingscourt, Dún a Rí Forest Park is accessible by foot. Follow the R179 north for approximately 2 km. The walk takes around 30 minutes and offers a pleasant approach to the park entrance.
Public Transport

From Kingscourt town, Dún a Rí Forest Park is a short distance via the R179. Bus Éireann routes 107 and 170 serve Kingscourt. From the bus stop in Kingscourt, it is approximately a 30 minute walk to the park entrance. Bus fare will vary depending on your starting point; check the Transport For Ireland (TFI) Go App for the most up to date prices.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Kingscourt. A taxi from the town center to Dún a Rí Forest Park will cost approximately €8-€10 and take around 5-10 minutes. Taxi services include Sean McCabe, O'Grady Cab Service, and Birdy's Taxi.
Driving

Dún a Rí Forest Park is located just off the R179, approximately 2km north of Kingscourt. From Kingscourt, follow the R179 towards Carrickmacross. The park entrance is clearly signposted. Parking is available within the park for a fee of €5, payable by card only.

Discover more about Dún a Rí Forest Park

Dún a Rí Forest Park, situated near Kingscourt on the Cavan-Monaghan border, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Spanning 565 acres, the park encompasses lush woodlands, serene rivers, and scenic trails, providing an ideal escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The park's name, meaning "King's Fort," hints at its rich historical connections. Legend has it that the Gaelic warrior Cú Chulainn rested in these woods. The O'Reilly family once owned the land, later passing to Thomas Fleming, who built Fleming's Castle; its ruins can still be explored. The Pratt family then acquired the estate, establishing the town of Kingscourt in the 18th century. In 1959, the Irish Forest Service acquired the land, developing it into a forest park in the early 1970s. The "Romantic Glen" of the Cabra River flows through the park, adding to its allure. Visitors can explore four looped walking trails, each offering unique perspectives of the park's diverse landscapes. The trails wind through oak and ash woodlands, understories of hazel and rhododendron, and carpets of bluebells and wood anemones in spring. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including stoats, hares, mink, rabbits, red and grey squirrels, and otters. Points of interest within the park include the Ice House, Toba na Splinne Holy Well, Cromwell's Bridge, and Sarah's Well. The park also features open-air sculptures and picnic areas, making it a perfect destination for a family day out.