Wildflower bouquet for new-look Canal Wood

Canal Wood is showing off a striking new facelift at the final of a series of wildlife events on Saturday 4 October.

Owners the Woodland Trust are inviting visitors to experience the huge transformation to this 8-hectare woodland, which stretches alongside the historic Newry Canal, between Poyntzpass and Newry.

Celebrate the wood’s new look and make your mark by planting glorious wildflowers, including primrose, red campion, ragged robin and wood anemone.  The latest lovelies – together with the existing bluebells, garlic mustard and lady’s smock – will provide a valuable habitat for many species of insects.

Then enjoy a guided stroll through the wonderful woodland and wetland areas, which are alive with amphibians and birds, from smooth newts to snipe.

Canal Wood’s transformation has been supported by funding of over £40,000 from Biffa Award: a multi-million pound fund that helps to build communities and transform lives through awarding grants to community and environmental projects across the UK.

The wood now boasts quaint stone bridges and improved pathways; while a new boardwalk leads through previously inaccessible reed-beds.  A new stone sculpture in the shape of a bench takes pride and place at the entrance to this tranquil site.  With input from local schoolchildren, its intricate carvings depict the wood’s precious wildlife and offer a glimpse into the history of the Newry Canal.  

The Woodland Trust is grateful to members of the Newry-Portadown branch of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland who help care for this wood and its precious wild inhabitants. 

Local group member Heather Crawford enthuses: “Canal Wood is something of a hidden gem.  Nestled alongside the Newry Canal, this is a perfect haven for wildlife and, for local people, a place of beauty and tranquility.  We hope the recent site enhancements will encourage other nature lovers and walkers to visit and appreciate this fantastic natural resource.” 

Saturday 4 October, with a 10am start, is the date for your diary.  Free refreshments will be provided.  Booking in advance is required.  To secure your place, please contact Michelle McCaughtry at the Woodland Trust on 028 9127 5787 or [email protected]