Map of Thomastown to Inistioge Walk, Ireland

Moderate: 6.8 miles, 1-3 hours

Overview: The Nore Valley Walk is the flagship project of Trail Kilkenny. The walk will stretch from Kilkenny city to Inistioge and follow the River Nore. The walk is divided into three sections (Kilkenny to Bennetsbridge, Bennetsbridge to Thomastown and Thomastown to Inisitoge). This guide details the Thomastown to Inistioge section.

Starting in the town of Thomastown go south across the bridge and follow the green arrows to the Thomastown GAA pitch. Walk along the border of the GAA pitch to the river bank and follow this for 2km into Dysart Forest. On leaving Dysart forest turn left along the Rock Road and after 400 metres take the left side road (all marked with green arrows). Follow this side-road back to the main road and follow this road for 3km, passing Ballyduff House until you enter Brownsbarn Wood. The walking trail traverses the wood to the river bank and then raises back to the road. This is a perfect spot to stop for a picnic en route. On leaving the wood turn left and walk down toward Brownsbarn Bridge. Turn right at the bridge (don’t cross the bridge) and then follow the road for 500 metres until you see a green and yellow stile. This stile will bring you back to the river bank and you can follow this trail to the village of Inistioge.

Tips: Parking: parking is available in Thomastown village or in Thomastown GAA pitch

Provisions: Thomastown and Inistioge are full of beautiful cafes and restaurants to stock up on picnic provisions