Donadea Forest Park: A Blend of History and Nature
Discover history and nature in County Kildare's Donadea Forest Park: trails, castle ruins, a serene lake, and a 9/11 memorial await.
Donadea Forest Park, located in County Kildare, offers a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Explore castle ruins, serene woodlands, a picturesque lake, and a poignant 9/11 memorial, all within a sprawling parkland that once belonged to the Aylmer family.
A brief summary to Donadea Forest Park
- Donadea, Co. Kildare, W91 VK59, IE
- +3531890367378
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore the historical features, including the castle ruins, walled gardens, and St. Peter's Church, to delve into the area's past.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoying the water lilies in summer and feeding the ducks.
- Walk one of the three looped trails, choosing the Lake Walk for an accessible option or the Aylmer Walk for a longer route.
- Visit the 9/11 Memorial, a scaled replica of the Twin Towers, which serves as a poignant reminder of the past.
Getting There
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Driving
Donadea Forest Park is located approximately 8 km south of Kilcock and 13 km north of Naas on the Kilcock Road. From Dublin, take the M4 motorway and exit for Kilcock. Follow the R407 towards Donadea. The park is well signposted. Parking is available on-site for a €5 fee, payable via contactless payment card or online payment app. Note that coins are no longer accepted. During peak times, expect potential delays upon entry due to the park's popularity.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct public transportation route to Donadea Forest Park, you can take a train from Dublin to Maynooth, and then take a taxi to the park. Irish Rail operates trains from Dublin Connolly to Maynooth every 30 minutes; a ticket costs approximately €3-€5. The journey takes about 44 minutes. From Maynooth, a taxi to Donadea Forest Park will cost approximately €20-€30.
Discover more about Donadea Forest Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dunfierth Chapel Ruins
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Tagdahoe Chapel
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The Windmill
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Rodanstown Motte Heritage Site
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Arthur Guinness Statue
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Hill Of Allen Tower
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Jigginstown Castle
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Donore Castle Ruins
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Dan Donnelly's Monument
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Fire Temple
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Yellow Steeple
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Unmissable attractions to see
Donadea Castle
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Wallaby Woods Donadea
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The Kildare Maze
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Clonfert Farm
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Coolcarrigan House & Gardens
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Kilgar House Gardens
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Essential places to dine
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The Dew Drop Inn & Brewhouse
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Maybell Lady Plus boutique
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Newbridge Shopping Centre
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Coffeys
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