Fethard Castle Trail
Grade: Easy
Distance: 850 metres (0.55 miles)
Waymarking: Red
Trailhead: Fethard Castle, Main St, Fethard-on-Sea
Sat Nav: 52.193038, -6.840680
Parking: Free street parking
Trail Description
The looped Fethard Castle walk begins in the popular seaside village of Fethard on Sea. Starting on Main Street, the trail leads you through the grounds of the historic 15th century ruined castle, adjacent to St Mogue’s Church and graveyard. It then meanders through the woods of Grange Ville, 19th century home of the Loftus estate manager.
The woodland section follows a stream surrounded by an abundance of vegetation and a wealth of wildlife and birds. While close to Fethard on Sea, this tranquil setting blots out the sounds of the bustling village and allows the walker to soak up the beauty of nature under the beautiful canopy of native trees.
The trail leads out onto Sluice Lane which gets its name from a sluice gate across the stream which maintains its water levels. The trail loops back to the main street with its quaint pubs, cafés, shops and boutique hotel.
Don’t Miss…
- A relaxing beverage or lunch in one of the local, friendly pubs and coffee shops.
- Fethard offers an opportunity to learn and experience kayaking activities in the local bay.
- Walk south along Main Street, looking out over Bannow Bay and check out the rich birdlife in the estuary.
Useful Trail Information
OSI Discovery Map Series: 76
Grid Reference:S 793 052
Ascent: 8m
Walking time: 20 -30 minutes
Format: Loop
Surface: Mixed surfaces
Gates/Stiles: Yes
Start/Finish: Trailhead
Equipment Recommended:
Other Useful Information
Mobile Coverage: Generally Good
Picnic Area: Yes
Public Toilets: No
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:
Nearby Walking Trails
Getting Here
Directions: From Enniscorthy and Wexford town: Take the N25 to the Duncannon roundabout at Whitford House Hotel. Take the R733 exit for Duncannon. Continue for 19km to Wellingtownbridge. 8km after Wellingtobridge turn left onto the R734, continuing for 7km until you arrive in Fethard-on-Sea.
Alternative scenic route:(same distance) 6 km from Wellingtonbridge turn left on to the L4041, continue for 5.5km passing Tintern Abbey and Saltmills en-route. At the T-junction in Poulfur, turn left and continue to Fethard village. (2km)
From New Ross, Ballyhack, Ramsgrange: Take the R733 heading east. Drive through Ramsgrange, continuing for 4km. Turn right onto the R734, continuing for 7km until you arrive in Fethard-on-Sea.
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