Discover the hidden treasures of Kilcooley Wood

Enjoy an evening stroll, led by the Trust’s Volunteer of the Year Peter Lyons, on Wednesday 22 July at 7pm.

Kilcooley Wood is a green oasis stretching along one side of the busy Rathgael Road.  On the other side of the road, the magnificent towering trees within privately-owned Clandeboye Estate provide an impressive backdrop.

Much to the delight of local people, this young urban woodland was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2014, in recognition of its importance to both wildlife and people.

Peter Lyons said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to discover Kilcooley Wood, while enjoying a breath of fresh air on a summer’s evening.

“Over 15 years ago, thanks to a helping hand from local people, thousands of native trees were planted here: mostly oak with scatterings of willow, alder and birch in the wetter areas.  Today, the young trees have flourished and already tower several feet above the tallest of walkers.

“Kilcooley Wood is the most amazing urban woodland, enjoyed by walkers on a daily basis.  In springtime visitors will find scatterings of lesser celandine and bluebells, mostly along the woodland edge; while summer brings early purple orchids and butterflies, including meadow brown and speckled wood.  You will often see chaffinches and, if you’re lucky, the occasional sparrowhawk, no doubt visiting from Clandeboye Estate.”

To find out more or to book a place(s) at this free event please contact Michelle McCaughtry on 028 9127 5787 or email [email protected]