Natural monuments around Thomastown, located in County Kilkenny, Ireland, offer diverse natural attractions. The region is characterized by its scenic beauty, including the River Nore and various woodland areas. Thomastown provides opportunities to explore historic gardens, riverine landscapes, and natural trails. The area's geography supports a range of outdoor activities focused on its natural features.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • River
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
0
0
Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
1
0
Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
1
0
The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
3
0
Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.
0
0
Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day. Steamers Coffee Shop Serves a wide variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus, great coffee and ice cream in the summer.
0
0
Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
0
0
Visitors frequently enjoy the Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Ireland and located within the beautiful Delamont Country Park. Another favored spot is Ringhaddy Sound, known for its scenic river views and historical atmosphere on the western shore of Strangford Lough.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Delamont Country Park, home to the Strangford Stone, is a 200-acre park offering peace and tranquility for all ages. Additionally, the Thomastown Island Weir Pool, also known as the Salmon Pool, is a popular family-friendly swimming area on the River Nore with shallow waters, a grassy picnic area, and lifeguards present during summer afternoons and evenings.
The region is rich in diverse natural features. You can explore riverine landscapes along the River Nore, including the Thomastown Island Weir Pool. The area also features woodlands, such as those found at Kilfane Glen, and scenic lough shores like those at Strangford Lough, where you can find unusual swollen hills and historical sites.
Yes, the area blends natural beauty with history. Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is a restored 1790s romantic garden featuring a rustic grotto and a thatched summerhouse, offering a glimpse into 18th-century landscape design. Ringhaddy Sound also features a castle ruin, adding a historical dimension to its natural river setting.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and nature observation at Delamont Country Park. For more structured activities, there are numerous running and hiking trails. For example, you can find running routes like the 'Castle Ward Hoof Trail run from Strangford' or easy hikes such as the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail'. You can explore more options on the Running Trails around Thomastown and Easy hikes around Thomastown guide pages.
Yes, there are several hiking trails. Near Delamont Country Park, you can find trails like the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' or the 'Castle Ward Boundary Trail'. The Grennan Loop Walk also offers a natural trail along the banks of the River Nore, featuring woodlands and pebbly beaches. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the Hiking around Thomastown guide.
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is particularly recommended for visits during its operational months of July and August. This period allows visitors to fully experience its 18th-century planting, including wild foxgloves and ferns, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the glen.
Yes, the Thomastown Island Weir Pool, also known as the Salmon Pool, is a popular swimming area. It features a shallow pool with easy access via curved stone steps and is considered safe for swimming, especially for families. Lifeguards are typically present during the afternoons and evenings in June, July, and August.
Visitors appreciate the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by sites like Delamont Country Park. The unique atmosphere of places like Ringhaddy Sound with its swollen hills and castle ruins, and the magical, untouched character of Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, are also highly valued for relaxation and exploration.
Yes, several natural monuments offer excellent viewpoints. Strangford Stone, located in Delamont Country Park, stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne. Ringhaddy Sound also provides scenic river views.
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is typically open during July and August. For the most current information on specific opening hours and any potential changes, it is best to check their official website: visitkilkenny.ie.
Yes, the Thomastown Island Weir Pool offers a large grassy area equipped with picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a day out with food. Delamont Country Park also provides ample space for picnicking amidst its natural beauty.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Thomastown: