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Woodland Walk in Desart Demesne, Co Kilkenny

The Abhainn Rí Festival is a small but growing community festival in Callan, Co Kilkenny, and there’ll be several family events in and around the town from today until July 31st. One that caught our eye is the Woodland Walk in Desart Demesne Wood from 7pm on July 26th, hosted by Coillte. Walk leader Mick Power will tell the story of the ash, explain where hurleys come from (it’s Kilkenny, after all), see how timber is felled and learn about the biodiversity of the woodland. He’ll also explore the fascinating social history of Desart Demesne Wood. The walk-and-talk will take less than two hours, so it should be over before it gets dark. See coillteoutdoors.ie for how to get to the meeting place.

Jenkinstown wood

If waiting around until 7pm doesn't suit, but a walk in the woods appeals, then Jenkinstown wood in Kilkenny is also fantastic. It's where Thomas Moore was inspired to write The Last Rose of Summer, while staying at Jenkinstown House. There are good picnic areas, too. More details at Kilkenny.ie.