Hazelwood Forest

Overview

Nestled on the north‑western shore of Lough Gill, just five kilometres west of Sligo town, Hazelwood Forest (also known as Hazelwood Demesne) is a 250‑year‑old woodland estate now managed by Coillte as a free public amenity. The forest’s flat 3.2 km loop skirts the lake’s edge, weaving through mature oak, ash and a variety of non‑native plantings while delivering uninterrupted panoramas of the island chain that dots the water.

History / Background

The heart of the estate is Hazelwood House, an elegant Palladian mansion erected in 1724 for Lieutenant‑General Owen Wynne. Designed by the celebrated architect Richard Cassels – whose portfolio includes Leinster House and Powerscourt – the house is regarded as Sligo’s finest Georgian residence, though it remains closed to the public. The Wynne family dominated local affairs for three centuries, supplying MPs and high sheriffs, and the surrounding woods inspired W. B. Yeats, who referenced the hazel woods in “The Song of Wandering Aengus”.

The demesne dates back to the 1650s and originally comprised a mix of alluvial and mixed‑broadleaf woodland. In the early 21st century Coillte began a major biodiversity programme, designating Hazelwood as a priority EU Annex 1 Alluvial Woodland and a Special Area of Conservation within the Lough Gill SAC.

Conservation and Awards

Hazelwood Forest has become a showcase for native‑woodland restoration. Between 2020 and 2024 Coillte’s ‘Restoring Hazelwood’ project removed invasive rhododendron, laurel and dogwood, thinned non‑native conifers and replanted native wet‑woodland species such as willow, alder, ash and birch. The work enhanced the EU‑protected Annex 1 Alluvial Woodland habitat and earned the forest the Native Woodland Conservation Award at the 2025 RDS Forest and Woodland Awards.

The project was a collaboration between Coillte, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the local community, and formed part of Coillte’s broader Forests for Nature ambition to have 30 % of its estate managed primarily for nature by 2025.

Biodiversity Significance

Hazelwood’s 123‑hectare alluvial woodland is one of the few remaining in Ireland and is listed as an EU‑protected habitat. Dominant trees include willow (Salix spp.), alder (Alnus glutinosa), ash (Fraxinus excelsior), birch (Betula pubescens) and aspen. The ground flora is rich with marsh marigold, wood anemone, bluebells, meadowsweet, flag iris and a variety of sedges.

This mosaic supports a range of wildlife:

• Birds: kingfisher, willow warbler, reed warbler, mute swan, mallard, greylag goose.
• Mammals: red squirrels, otters, occasional deer.
• Amphibians: common frog and newt species.
• Invertebrates: butterflies and dragonflies linked to the wet‑woodland flora.

Storm Eowyn Impact and Re‑opening

In January 2024 Storm Eowyn caused extensive damage to Hazelwood’s veteran trees and walking paths. Fallen trees were safely removed, root plates refilled and the access road repaired. After six weeks of intensive work, the forest re‑opened to the public on 5 April 2025. Coillte asked visitors to stay on the marked trails while restoration continues and to avoid the nearby Carns Hill area until further notice.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring: the forest floor erupts in bluebells and wood anemone, making it a favourite spot for photographers.
• Summer: long daylight hours provide excellent bird‑watching, especially for kingfishers along the lake edge.
• Autumn: the mixed‑broadleaf section displays vivid orange and amber foliage, and the lake reflects the colours of the surrounding islands.
• Winter: the alluvial woodland remains a quiet refuge for otters and red squirrels; paths are still accessible but can be muddy after rain.

What to See & Do

Walking the Loop

The main trail is a well‑marked, green‑arrow circuit that takes roughly one hour to complete. It is completely flat (0 m ascent) and suitable for families, wheelchair users and push‑chair walkers. Two shorter spurs near the midway point allow 1.5 km or 2 km detours for those short on time.

Island Vistas

From the lakeshore you can spot a string of islands that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. Look westward to Church Island, Goat Island, Cottage Island and the striking Dooney Rock; on clear days Wolf Island, Bernard’s Island and the more distant Wolf Island also come into view. The halfway picnic bench offers a classic photo opportunity with the islands mirrored in the lake.

Art and Interpretation

While the original wooden sculpture trail has been partially removed, a handful of contemporary installations remain, linked to the wider Yeats Trail. Interpretive panels along the route identify tree species, explain the estate’s ecological history and share snippets of the Wynne family story.

Wildlife, Birdwatching & Picnic

Red squirrels, ducks, geese and swans are regular visitors, especially near the water’s edge. Designated picnic areas near the Half Moon Bay car park provide benches and tables with sweeping lake views – perfect for a packed lunch or a calming tea break. Early‑morning visits increase the chance of spotting kingfishers and otters.

Getting There

Hazelwood Forest is accessed via the Half Moon Bay car park, situated off the N4 road just west of Sligo town. There is free parking for visitors. The site is reachable by car in about 10 minutes from the town centre.

Public transport – the nearest bus stop is in Sligo town; a short taxi ride or a 5 km walk along the R291 brings you to the forest entrance.

Cycling – bike racks are provided at the car‑park entrance. The route from Sligo town follows the R292 and is well‑signed for cyclists. Hazelwood often features in the county’s free Bike Week 2026 events, offering guided rides and family‑friendly activities.

Practical Information

Nearby Attractions

While you’re in the area, consider adding one of these Sligo highlights to your itinerary:

• Benbulben – iconic mountain and Yeats’ grave, offering dramatic cliff‑side walks.
• Ballygilgan Nature Reserve – a haven for birdwatchers and walkers.
• Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – one of Ireland’s largest prehistoric stone circles.
• Cloonacool – a charming village at the foot of the Ox Mountains, ideal for a coffee break.

Hazelwood Forest is a seamless blend of natural beauty, historic ambience and cultural touch‑points, making it an ideal stop on the Wild Atlantic Way or any Sligo‑area itinerary.