Delgany, Co Wicklow

Start in the village centre where naturalist and film-maker Eamon de Buitlear unveiled an information unit, including a Delgany Heritage Trail map. Follow the way-marked signs to the Gothic Christ Church. Opposite, descend on Jacob's ladder to Three Trout Stream, probably derived from ‘tri droichead'- three bridges.

At Priory Road, turn left and after Struan Hill follow Blackberry Lane back to the village. Sir Walter Raleigh visited Style Bawn, a house of 16th century origin. The Old Burial Ground was an early Christian settlement. Tombstones of limestone and Wicklow granite face east.

Walk up Bellevue Hill past the former La Touche estate and at the top turn right through a housing area. Follow a hedged path over a stream to Kindlestown Castle, a medieval structure with Gaelic and Norse connections. Cromwell ransacked the castle after local people stole his favourite horse.

Nearby, Coillte are developing Kindlestown Wood as a Neighbourwood facility with a network of paths and viewing points. (See Village issue 106). Return to the village by Convent Road and the Carmelite Monastery. In a rapidly changing area, the trail will be extended to conserve local amenities. Thanks to David Walsh and Sheena Gogarty, co-ordinator of project supported by Heritage Council.
More: Heritage Trail leaflet, Delgany Community Council; map OS Discovery 56;
Access from N11, exit R762; Dart to Greystones, bus 184 from Bray.