The Rocks Family Trail
Grade: Multi-access
Distance: 0.7km (0.4 miles)
Waymarking: Orange
Trailhead: St Mary’s GAA Club Car Park
Sat Nav: 52.3288 -6.4534
Parking: St Mary’s GAA Club, Street Parking nearby
Trail Description
This trail starts at the St Mary’s GAA club, with the pitch hewn out of the rock, in what was known as the First Field. The area has been a playground for generations of residents from the Faythe and Maudlintown.
The rock is a distinctive purple quartzite, which has been quarried and used to construct a number of old buildings in the town.
To the right of the pitch is Trespan Rock, where in 1649 Oliver Cromwell placed his canon and bombarded Wexford castle before sacking the town.
The viewing point is at the base of Hilly Holly and gives views of the Harbour and the Sandbar.
On your return, you pass ‘slidey rock’, with its surface made smooth by generations of children sliding down.
Don't Miss...
- Trespan Rock, from where Cromwell’s canon launched their attack on Wexford Castle
- ‘Slidey Rock’ made smooth by generations of children sliding down
Useful Trail Information
OSI Discovery Map Series 77
Grid Reference: T 05494 20800
Ascent: negligible
Walking time: 20 mins
Format: Loop
Surface: Hardcore paths
Gates/Stiles: No
Start/Finish: St Mary’s GAA Club, The Faythe
Other Useful Information
Equipment Recommended: No special equipment required
Mobile Coverage: Generally Good
Picnic Area:
Public Toilets: None
Facilities:
Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control at all times.
You must clean up after your dog if it fouls in a public place.
Other Walking Trails Nearby
Getting Here
From Wexford Quays head south along the Quays on the R730, continuing straight down Trinity Street, onto South William St. You will arrive at a pedestrian crossing , green area on your left, pub and supermarket on your right. Just beyond the pedestrian crossing there is a small laneway on the right leading to St Mary’s GAA Club where parking is available.
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