The estate was the ancestral home of the Wynne family, who held the land from the 17th century until the early 20th century.
The forest contains significant stands of native Irish hazel, which historically gave the demesne its name.
Lough Gill, the primary feature adjacent to the forest, is the same lake that inspired W.B. Yeats' poem 'The Lake Isle of Innisfree'.
Parts of the forest floor are carpeted in bluebells during the late spring months.
The path system includes a boardwalk section specifically designed to protect delicate wetland vegetation near the lake edge.
Hazelwood House, visible from parts of the estate grounds, is a protected Palladian-style structure currently in private ownership.
The site functions as a habitat for red squirrels, which are frequently sighted in the upper canopy.
Hazelwood Forest is a managed woodland located on the southern shores of Lough Gill in County Sligo, Ireland. The forest occupies the site of the former 18th-century Hazelwood House estate, designed by architect Richard Cassels. The terrain features a network of gravel paths that wind through mixed broadleaf and coniferous forest, leading directly to the lakeshore. It is a designated Coillte-managed site that incorporates part of the Sligo Way long-distance walking trail. The forest is characterized by its old-growth hazel trees and remnants of the original demesne's formal landscaping. Visitors can access multiple viewpoints that overlook Lough Gill and Church Island. The area is largely flat, providing accessible walking conditions compared to the mountainous terrain surrounding Sligo.
The wooden boardwalk viewpoint overlooking the calm waters of Lough Gill towards Church Island.
Bring waterproof footwear, as the paths can become muddy during periods of high rainfall.
Carry insect repellent if visiting during the summer months to manage midges near the shoreline.
Check the Coillte website before visiting to ensure no forestry work or maintenance closures are in effect.
Attempting to enter private property surrounding the protected estate house; parking outside of designated bays.
Keep dogs on a lead to protect local wildlife and respect other trail users; practice 'leave no trace' by removing all litter.
