Knocksink, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow

Near the Catholic church in the village, enter Knocksink Woods. There is a car park in the forest area beside the Environmental Education Centre. 

The centre aims “to bring environmental science to life by providing educational tours to groups of all ages and abilities”. The focus is on student groups but individuals are welcome.From the car park, follow the main track past majestic oak and beech trees along the Glencullen river. Turn left across the second bridge onto a woodland path by the boulder-strewn river. Cross another bridge to return to the main trail and the centre. From the Oak Walk, there are great views, especially in winter when leaves have fallen. Enjoy riverside picnics.The Knocksink Woods Special Area of Conservation extends over 70 hectares of habitats which include dry and wet ash woodlands, with canopies of ash, oak, sycamore and birch. Elder and spindle trees, with ground vegetation of honeysuckle and wood sage prefer drier soil. Watch for rare ferns, insects and protected mammals – red squirrels, badgers and sika deer. Shop and dine in Enniskerry.

TONY QUINN

More The Wicklow Walking Guide, Wicklow Tourism & The Adventure Agency. Walk 1 in Ten walks in the district of Enniskerry, 2nd edition, 2006, A Smith and K Warner.

Map, OS Discovery, sheet 56. Access from N11 to Enniskerry. Bus 185 from Bray