Tintern Abbey, at Saltmills, New Ross, Co. Wexford, is a Cistercian Abbey, founded circa 1200 by William, the Earl Marshall. Part of the Wexford Walking Trail network, the Tintern Abbey Trails are free—and there are four to choose from. To start each walk, turn right at the entrance to Tintern Abbey and continue to Trailhead. 

Gardener’s Trail

This short easy walk (0.9km) starts at Tintern Abbey. Cross the Tintern River via the old stone bridge and enjoy the mixed woodland containing 200-year-old beech trees. About half way, discover the Colclough Walled Garden (admission charge) which once supplied the Colclough family who lived in the abbey.

Tintern Demesne Trail

This 2.4km walk along the Tintern River and around the demesne boundary shows nature’s bounty, including fine beech, oak, and chestnut trees as well as kingfishers, egrets, buzzards, red squirrels, stoats, and bats.

Foxboro Trail

The 3.5km trail starts at Tintern Abbey and follows the Tintern River through deciduous and coniferous forest. The walk has some climbs, rough underfoot and obstacles.

Bannow Bay Trail

Starting at the Abbey, this 7.2km trail meanders through the ‘Deal Park’ and on to the ‘Brickfield’ where the bricks to construct the Walled Garden were made. Your walk will take in the old estate village of Saltmills. This area is rich in bird life.