Brownscastle Woods Trail

Grade: Easy

Distance:  1.2km (8 miles)

Waymarking: Red

Trailhead:   2.8km from Taghmon Village

Sat Nav: 52.34048 -6.65934

Parking: At the trailhead

Trail Description

Beautiful meandering walk through an established coniferous woodland. Heading west along the path through the forest will bring you to St. Munna’s Bed, a large flat rock protruding from the side of the valley. St. Munna, who founded a monastery in Taghmon in about 597, is believed to have rested here as a retreat during the summer months. There is a cross hewn in its centre. Lying on this rock is reputed to help with back aches and pains and some people still do it nowadays.

Following the path from this point will eventually bring you to the old derelict woollen factory which is cordoned off for safety reasons. This factory, powered by a waterwheel from the river manufactured woollen blankets. It ceased production about 1915. In the day there was a sign here which stated ‘When you have done your business, please go about your business, so we can do our business’!

Coming back from the factory and keeping to the left brings you along a beautiful meandering path through the woodland by the river. You may not see them during the day, but badgers, foxes, pine martins and squirrels frequent these woods. During the day you will hear the birds singing. Looking into the river, you will most likely see trout flitting by.

Along this scenic path through the trees you will eventually come to the steps that bring you to St. Munna’s Well. This natural well is believed to have healing properties too. Some people still use it today to leave offerings for their loved one’s.

Don’t Miss…

  • St. Munna’s bed
  • St. Munna’s Well
  • Derelict Woollen Factory (circa 1915)
  • Large Redwood trees
  • Beautiful meandering river walk
  • Café and pubs in the village of Taghmon.

Useful Trail Information

OSI Discovery Map Series 77

Grid Reference: 

Ascent: 25 metres

Walking time: 25 minutes

Format: Loop

Surface:

Gates/Stiles: No

Start/Finish: Trailhead

Equipment Recommended:  none

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Other Useful Information

Mobile Coverage: Generally Good

Picnic Area: Picnic bench at trailhead

Public Toilets:  Taghmon village

Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control at all times.
You must clean up after your dog if it fouls in a public place.

Public Transport:  none

Askamore Map image

Other Walking Trails Nearby

Keep going for Getting Here

Taghmon village: From Main St, turn onto Chapel St and continue past the church and school out of the village. After 2.5km the entrance will be on the left (Finger post sign). Continue for approximately 200m to the trailhead. 

Trail Grades

Trail grades give an indication of what to expect when out on a trail.  The grade will give an idea of  the level of fitness and ability required to use the trail.  

Before attempting a trail, it is important to consider the grading to ensure it matches your ability and level of fitness. 

Wexford Walking Trails are graded by Sport Ireland according to their criteria which is explained here. 

Multi-Access

Flat smooth trails, suitable for all users including people with reduced mobility, wheelchair users, people with a vision impairment, using crutches, with a buggy, with small children, older people and so on. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland

Moderate

These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience.  Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended. Source : Sport Ireland

Easy

Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and older people. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland

Strenuous

These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods and the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles.  Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required. Source : Sport Ireland