Castlemorris - Pheasant Loop
Grade
Moderate
Length
7 km
Am
2 hours 30 minutes
Format
Loop
Ascent
30 m
Dogs Allowed
Under effective control
Waymarking
Purple arrow
Start Point
Car park at Grand Gates of Castlemorris Estate
Finish Point
Car park at Grand Gates of Castlemorris Estate
Nearest Town to Start
Knocktopher
Grid Ref.
S 491 356
Lat. and Long.
52.46965, -7.27762
On minor road, forest road and forest track, this loop takes you through the fine woods of the former demesne of Castlemorris House. You will pass by the old Gate Lodge, stone outbuildings and a stableyard.
Maps and other information
External Links
Keep dogs under close control
OSI Maps
Discovery Series Sheet 67
David from United Kingdom
Lovely trail although the long climb offers little in the way of a distant view. Ideal for a shady walk on a hot sunny day. The comment about "...1km" appears to be due to the marker post at "E" having been turned around. Also, at point "D" there is no marker at all leaving one in doubt as to the turn back into the 1km section without going past it to find the road junction then re-tracing one's steps. The track shown opposite the turning is not sufficiently obvious to provide any confirmation as to the turning.
Dominic from Dublin
This is a lovely well sign-posted trail with good under-foot conditions. Note, however, that on the return journey, where the directions indicate .... '1km takes you to a junction with a surfaced roadway where you turn right', the difficult-to-find right turn sign is just before the roadway, and directs walkers through the woods! It would be better to continue onto the roadway (10 metres) and turn right. A visit to Aghaviller Church and Round Tower is well worth the short detour but beware of local barking, marauding dogs (3)! The start of the walk is located on the R701 to Kilmaganny and this two hour easy walk is well worth a trip out from Kilkenny.
Alice from Kilkenny
Was missing a signpost at stage D which sent us of track and onto the main road. And slight confusion at stage E signpost. Google maps helped us get back on track. Other than that really enjoyed the walk . Took us 2hrs going at a steady pace. Was raining today but still very scenic, trekking boots/shoes a must. Really recommend this trail.