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Recommended starting point: S5 on map.
This handy 5 Km Stroll contrasts starkly with the more
sheltered short walks to the west. Being more exposed,
many of the species of flora and fauna encountered to
the west are absent. However this walk has its own charm
and birds such as Snipe, Woodcock etc can be found here
and we are reminded from time to time on Rocky outcrops
and at the edge of Forestry that this whole area was
once covered by Blanket Peat, by the presence of Ling
Heather and Irish Furze.
Take the Toor Road from Kielys Cross and commence the
walk from the top of the right of way bounding Glen
Lickey and Toor. Proceed down the right of way towards
the Bridge.
The stone walls clad with European Gorse also have an
occasional Mountain Ash and Holly Tree. If you look
closely you will find mounds of Bilberries or Whorts as
they are called in this area. The aforementioned Ling
Heather Callona species is also present and to the
discerning eye, Erica and Daboecia Species can be found.
On the River Bank there are clumps of scrub rosa and
Briar and in the River you will encounter Watercress,
Water Starworth and Pondwee. The right of way on the
Norther bank is less interesting botanically with mostly
European Gorse, Bramble and White Thorn.
The land in Glen Lickey is mostly pasture with cattle
and sheep grazing.
At the T junction, turn right. This area is heavily
afforested. Laurels have been planted on both side of
the road.
The stone Bridge is a feature in this area. There are
some fine Norway Spruce on the south side of the river.
Sitka Spruce, Larch and Lodgepole Pines are to be seen
as you proceed southwards. The Roadway cuts around a
natural rocky outcrop adorned with heather and gorse and
looks well throughout the year.
Proceed on towards Kielys Cross and Take the right of
way back toward the start. Again you will come across
Rowan and Holly in the Hedge Row.
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