The Bountiful River Barrow – A Foraging Adventure

Experience the magic of the River Barrow with a foraging walk led by Mary White of Blackstairs Eco Trails, one of Ireland’s leading foraging experts. This gentle 90-minute stroll along the picturesque banks of the River Barrow in Leighlinbridge offers the perfect introduction to the world of wild food.

Mary will guide participants in identifying a wide variety of edible plants, flowers and herbs that grow in abundance along the river’s edge. Learn how to safely gather wild foods, discover their culinary and medicinal uses and hear fascinating stories about their history and place in Irish tradition. Mary’s passion and knowledge of the natural world promises to make this a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

The banks of the River Barrow are not only rich in plant life but are also a haven for birds and wildlife. Mary will highlight kingfishers, herons, warblers and more as you explore this beautiful riverside landscape.

After the walk, participants will gather in a relaxed setting to take a closer look at the afternoon’s foraged finds. With Mary’s expert guidance, you’ll explore the properties of each plant and herb, and how to incorporate some into everyday use. This hands-on session offers a deep connection to the natural world and a greater appreciation of the rich botanical heritage found along the River Barrow. It’s a chance to ask questions, share insights, and leave with new skills—and perhaps a few delicious wild recipes too!.

This outdoor workshop is suitable for adults. Robust walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Please note that places are limited and early booking is advised.

Mary White is a former Green Party Member of the Irish Parliament for Carlow/Kilkenny and former Minister of State for Equality, Human Rights and Integration. She is a linguist, walking guide, forager and flora and fauna specialist. She speaks to a wide public on deep ecology, eco-tourism, climate change, sustainability and other green issues.

Mary runs Blackstairs Ecotrails and Shepherds Huts, an award-winning eco-tourism business in the Blackstairs Mountains and the Barrow Valley, with her husband Robert and daughter Dorothy Ellen. She works with schools and other organisations running wild life and foraging workshops, team building events and Celtic Tree Trails.

Mary is also a well-known conference speaker on green issues.

Located along a beautiful stretch of the River Barrow, Leighlinbridge is a picturesque, award-winning village that encourages visitors to slow down and savour their surroundings. Following the afternoon foraging walk with Mary White, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the charm and attractions of the village, before heading to the evening event with Peter O’Mahony and Adam Frost in nearby Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven.

Affectionately known as “The Garden Village,” Leighlinbridge features four stunning gardens created by the local community—the Millennium Garden, Vivaldi Garden, Garden of Remembrance and the Sculpture Garden. The Millennium Garden includes seven small themed spaces, each represented by distinctive trees, shrubs and stones. The Vivaldi Garden draws inspiration from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, while the Garden of Remembrance honours key moments in the village’s history. These include the visit by former Canadian Prime Minister John Mulrooney whose ancestors hailed from the village, the World War 1 Memorial and the Entente Florale Gold Medal Award which the village secured in 2001. The Sculpture Garden pays tribute to three of Leighlinbridge’s most renowned historical figures – Cardinal Patrick Francis Moran, the eminent Victorian scientist John Tyndall, and soldier Captain Myles Keogh.

A self-guided heritage trail leads visitors through the village’s fascinating past, including the medieval 14th-century bridge—the lowest crossing on the River Barrow—and a recently unveiled public art sculpture celebrating John Tyndall.

For those in the mood for a longer stroll, Leighlinbridge links directly to the Barrow Way, a peaceful riverside walking route rich in native biodiversity, birdsong and river views. A journey of 3.5km takes the walker to the nearby town of Bagenalstown.

Before heading to Arboretum, relax with a riverside lunch or coffee at the award-winning Lord Bagenal Inn. Then enjoy a browse in Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, or treat yourself to their special evening menu for the Peter O’Mahony and Adam Frost event featuring two courses and tea/coffee for only €24.95. For more information on Leighlinbridge – the Garden Village visit Leighlinbridge – The Garden Village – Carlow Garden Trail