For the 5th episode in this series we travel to Co. Kilkenny with Dr Ruth Freeman for a show that represents some hidden and lesser explored trails in Co. Kilkenny.

Ruth starts out from Graiguenamanagh, the Kilkenny town which sits on the River Barrow. On this longer walk which takes her along quiet country roads, across hillsides and through forests before finishing at Woodstock Gardens and Arborteum, Ruth meets local people who live and work in this part of Co.Kilkenny while discovering the history, natural history and landscapes that have shaped this beautiful county. Leaving Graiguenamanagh behind Ruth makes her way towards the forests around Brandon Hill where there are many opportunites to stop and enjoy nature and views around her.
She catches up with Coillte ecologist Dr Aileen O’Sullivan for a stroll to discuss the benefits of forests as part of our ecology and how forests have shaped so much of our landscape. Ruth then descends into the pretty village of Inistoige on her way to historic Woodstock Gardens and Aboretum which is now on the route of this trail, the South Leinster Way . The gardens which overlook the Nore Valley were restored to the period of 1840 -1890 with every effort being made to use plants and materials typical of the era. Ruth enjoys a tour which includes a visit to the walled garden with John Delaney who is responsible for the work here. Ruth’s love of a good chat, and her enthusiasm for nature make this Tracks & Trails a truly personal visit along the trail of Co. Kilkenny.

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