Site Name:

National Grid Reference

O 045 763   Understanding grid references

Location

Tullyallen, Drogheda, Co Louth  Download location map

How do I get there?

Take the N51 Boyne Valley Road west from Drogheda towards Slane, after aproximately 6.5 km the first of 2 car parks will be on your right hand side at the cross roads, the second car park is about ½ km further down the road.

Townley Hall Trail(s)

• Belnumber Wood Nature Trail
• Glen Wood Nature Trail
• Download Map - All Trails

Townley Hall Wood was part of Townley Hall Estate which was owned by the Balfour family. The Balfours built Townley Hall House (not open to the public) together with the little lodge and entrance gate which were part of the overall architectural design.  At Townley Hall the River Boyne forms the boundary between counties Meath and Louth while just upstream in the bend in the river lie the tumuli of Dowth, New Grange and Knowth which collectively form Bru na Boinne.  History clusters around the area, human activity is shown to go back 6000 years.  Close by is the site of the Battle of the Boyne, where a battle for the control of the English Crown took place in 1690.  Townley Hall Wood provides the opportunity for invigorating walks through its gently rolling wooded landscapes, and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

The woodland consists mainly of broadleaves with a few scattered conifers.  The wood is a relic of planting by the Balfour family some 150-200 years ago.  Main species include old oak, beech, ash, sycamore, European silver fir and Scots pine.  Other flora includes blackthorn, holly, hazel, elder, ground ivy, briar and broadleaf woodland flowers.

The forest is home to red deer, red and grey squirrel, badger, rabbit, hare and fox.  The area is also a haunt for resident and migratory birds.

The are two suggested trails in the wood ranging in length from 1 to 2 kms.

Contact Info