The site originally housed a 13th-century Cistercian abbey before its dissolution and conversion into a private estate.
The woods feature a notable collection of mature beech trees, some of which are over 150 years old.
The grounds were famously linked to the residence of Count John McCormack, the world-renowned Irish tenor, who lived at Moore Abbey in the mid-20th century.
The woodland trails are situated within a larger area that includes significant riverine habitats adjacent to the River Barrow.
Moore Abbey Woods, situated near Monasterevin in County Kildare, is a 200-hectare woodland featuring a diverse mix of coniferous and broadleaf trees. The site includes the historic grounds of Moore Abbey, which served as a Cistercian monastery founded in 1226 and later became the home of the Earls of Drogheda. The area is intersected by a series of looped forest trails, including the 3.5km Monasterevin Loop, suitable for walking and cycling. The landscape is primarily composed of mature beech and oak trees, offering habitats for local wildlife such as red squirrels and various woodland birds. The property is managed by Coillte and provides public access to remnants of the estate's historical landscaping. It serves as a significant green space within the Barrow Valley region, characterized by its flat, easily navigable terrain.
The tunnel-like path formed by mature beech trees during early morning light.
Wear waterproof footwear, as the forest floor can remain damp and muddy even after light rainfall.
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, particularly when walking near the denser undergrowth areas.
Keep dogs on a lead to protect local ground-nesting bird populations.
Do not attempt to enter the private nursing home grounds that adjoin the public forest; stay on the designated marked trails to avoid getting lost in the denser, unmanaged parts of the wood.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles by taking all litter with you; respect the privacy of the adjacent Moore Abbey facility, which is currently a private nursing home.
