Avondale Forest facts for kids
Avondale Forest is a beautiful wooded area in County Wicklow, Ireland. It sits on the west side of the River Avonmore. This special place is home to Avondale House, which was built in 1777. It was once the home of a famous Irish leader, Charles Stewart Parnell, and is now a museum. Avondale Forest is full of amazing wildlife and has cool features like an exotic tree trail and a well-developed arboretum, which is like a tree garden!
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Avondale Forest Park
Avondale Forest Park covers a large area of 214 hectares (about 530 acres). Most of it is located on the west bank of the River Avonmore. As you explore the park, you can find the old ruins of Parnell's sawmill and a special spot called Parnell's well.
Nature and Trees
Avondale Forest is a great example of Ireland's forests. While many native woodlands have disappeared, Avondale has a mix of trees. Some are foreign species planted for wood, and others are part of the park's efforts to show off different types of trees. The park has an impressive arboretum, which is a collection of many different kinds of trees. It's a fantastic place to learn about trees from all over the world.
Forest Trails
Avondale Forest Park has many exciting trails for you to explore. These paths let you discover different parts of the forest and enjoy nature.
- Centenary Walk: A path celebrating a special anniversary.
- River Walk: This trail follows along the banks of the beautiful River Avonmore.
- Exotic Tree Trail: Here, you can see many unusual and interesting trees from other countries.
- Slí na Sláinte: This Irish name means "path to health walk," and it's a great way to get some exercise.
- Cairn Walk: A trail that might lead you past a cairn, which is a pile of stones often used as a landmark.
- Pine Trail: This path takes you through areas filled with tall pine trees.
Every Saturday morning at 9:30 am, the park hosts a weekly parkrun. This is a free, fun 5-kilometer run or walk that anyone can join. It's a great way to be active and meet new people in the park.
Avondale House
Avondale House Avondale House is a very important building in Irish history. It was built in 1777 by Samuel Hayes. In 1846, a famous Irish leader named Charles Stewart Parnell was born here. Parnell was a great patriot who worked hard for Ireland's rights and independence. He is still remembered as one of the most important figures in Irish history.
In 1986, Avondale House was opened to the public as the Charles Stewart Parnell Museum. Here, visitors can learn all about Parnell's life and the history of the house.
Future Plans for the Park
There are exciting plans to make Avondale Forest Park even better! Starting in late 2019 and continuing into 2020, the park is being redeveloped. New additions will include a modern cafe and restaurant, perfect for a snack after your walk. A new visitor center is also planned for 'the great ride,' which is a long, open grassy area where horses used to be ridden. Even more exciting are the proposals for new walkways, including paths underground and high up in the tree canopy! These new features will offer unique ways to experience the forest.
