New trail along Lough Gill

CALRY Local History Society in collaboration with Sligo County Council are opening a new walking trail which will include part of Lady Anne’s Drive along Lough Gill shore.

The route is not only a nature trail with rich biodiversity but also a historical walk with an interesting local history.

Sights to be seen along the proposed trail include the Famine House, the Abbott’s Tomb, St Connell’s Island and The Wishing Well.

The trail, when fully operational, will be marketed as an amenity not only for Sligo residents but all for tourists visiting county Sligo.

Lady Anne’s Drive is named after Lady Anne Wynne, wife of the Rt Hon John Arthur Wynne MP ( 1801- 1865) of Hazelwood House.

Built sometime in the early to mid- 1800s, Lady Anne’s Drive was wide enough for a horsedrawn coach and had a stone foundation which rendered it passable in all types of weather conditions. The foundation is still intact.

Local landowner and committee member of Calry Local History Society, Jackie McGowan opened up part of his farm installing a temporary access route through his farm.

He says: “The natural beauty of Lough Gill and its surroundings is often overlooked by visitors to Sligo.

“Offering a new trail for walkers and hikers will also contribute to the development of tourism in the area.

Jackie added: “Boat cruises on Lough Gill will also have the opportunity to integrate with the proposed trail as picnic facilities will be offered.”

A charity walk to mark the opening of the trail took place yesterday, Easter Monday, 17th April at 2pm.

A crowd of walkers assembled at Clogherbeg car park at the top of Tully Hill close to the entrance to St Angela’s College.

A children’s Easter Egg Treasure Hunt also took place yesterday. Organisers were pleased with the event and say both the walk and treasure hunt were a success.