Castle Lake and Forest Walk, Bailieborough

Terrain: Through forest park and lake shore on secure paths
Distance: 3 km or 7 km
Grade: Easy
Time: 45 mins or 1 hour 45 mins

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The walk begins at the Castle Lake, outside Bailieborough on the Shercock Road (R178).  Turn left at the Creamery on the outskirts of Bailieborough. Turn left at into Castle Lough Forest (signposted). Parking available at the lake shore in front of the jetty.  Facing the lake turn right and begin the walk.

After 500m there is a memorial to those who died at Rebel Hill in 1798.  There are two walking options; loop around the lake (approx. 45 minutes) or for a longer walk, continue straight on. Keep an eye on your right for the graves of the Marist brothers who occupied Bailieborough Castle. Further along are the remains of Bailieborough Castle, built in the early 19th century and demolished in the 1940s. Continue left. There is a stream on the right hand side just past the Castle. Cross over the river to head for an Old Foundry and the Hide Out Pub along the Cootehill Road(R195). There is also a shop here.

Re-trace your steps, cross back over the river, this time going straight on towards the Bog Lough on your right. Then, turn left to head back towards Castle Lake, this time keeping the lake on your left. On your right is forested land. There is a fairy fort half way around the lake above the pump house. Follow the path back to the car parking area.

Facilities:  Fishing jetties, Hideout Pub and shop, Cootehill Rd

Points of Interest: Memorial to 1798 Rebellion at Rebel Hill, Sarah’s Well, Marist Brothers Graves, Foundry

Nearby Attractions:  Wesleyan Chapel – Arts, cultural and heritage centre, Lough a Leagh Walk and Viewpoint