Woodcock Hill [Cnoc na gCrebhar]

Rising north of Limerick, this Clare Marilyn forms the southern edge of the Cratloe Hills. Though its summit is cluttered with telecommunications masts, it remains a popular local objective. The climb follows narrow lanes through forestry and farmland, offering an easy escape from the city with expansive views over the Shannon Estuary.

• •The Irish name Cnoc na gCrebhar translates as 'Hill of the Woodcocks.' These elusive wading birds favour the dense woodland and damp ground found on the lower slopes of the Cratloe range.
• •On a clear day, the summit offers a commanding view across the winding Shannon towards the steeple of St John’s Cathedral in Limerick and the distant profile of the Galtee Mountains to the south.
• •Despite its modest height of 310 metres, Woodcock Hill qualifies as a Marilyn, meaning it has a topographic prominence of at least 150 metres relative to the surrounding landscape.
• •The hill is a significant communications hub for the Mid-West region; the array of masts at the top serves as a prominent landmark for pilots approaching nearby Shannon Airport.
• •If you enjoy the rhythmic hum of high-voltage equipment and the aesthetic of steel lattice towers, the summit will feel like a sanctuary.