Wicklow
Top Places to see in Wicklow
TOP PLACES TO SEE IN WICKLOW IRELAND QUICK LINKS
TOP PLACES TO SEE IN WICKLOW IRELAND QUICK LINKS
Avondale House
1.5 miles (2.4km) south of Rathdrum town sits the splendid Georgian Avondale House which was constructed in 1777 for a barrister by the name of Samuel Hayes. Mr Hayes had an enthusiastic interest in trees and Irish Forestry and the Forest Park today is an estate of more than 500 acres packed with a diverse collection of trees and shrubs and it offers several walks and trails. Having changed hands to the Parnell family in the late 18th century Avondale House became one of the famous places in Ireland as it was the birthplace of one of Ireland’s greatest political leaders Charles Stewart Parnell who was born in 1846. Avondale house in County Wicklow Ireland is now a museum dedicated to Parnell and still displays original furniture belonging to the family.
Glendalough
Glendalough in County Wicklow Ireland, it’s name taken from the Irish Gleann Dá Loch meaning glen of the two lakes, is one of most famous places in Ireland and one of the most remarkable visitor attractions in the country. Glendalough Valley, formed by a glacier during the ice age, is located in the spectacular Wicklow Mountains National Park and the valley is home to one of the most notable early Christian monastic sites in the country. Established by St Kevin in the 6th century, notable structures on display today include The Gateway, The Round Tower, The Cathedral and several churches. Glendalough is surrounded by magnificent scenery, wildlife and woodland, there are various walks and trails ready to be explored and the area is popular with climbers of all grades.
Powerscourt House, Gardens & Waterfall
Included in the Top Ten Houses and Mansions Worldwide by the Lonely Planet Guide, Powerscourt Estate occupying 47 acres is a sampling of paradise and one of the most famous places in Ireland for those with an interest in gardening. This is certainly one of the top places to see in Wicklow. Just 12½ miles (20km) from Dublin and offering amazing views of Wicklow’s Sugarloaf Mountain the gardens at Powerscourt Estate were laid out and nurtured over a span of 150 years. Including a walled garden, elaborate Italian Gardens, Japanese Garden fish pond, terraces, grottos and a tree lined avenue with hundreds of beech trees, exploring Powerscourt Gardens is a wondrous experience. The Palladian Powerscourt House in County Wicklow Ireland offers the opportunity to shop in a variety of stores some of which offer the finest Irish designed hand made jewellery, home-wares, soft furnishings and clothing, a great place to pick up gifts and relax after exploring the estate in the onsite Avoca Café with its striking views. Powerscourt Waterfall is the highest in Ireland and rises to almost 400ft. Situated approx 3 miles (5km) from the main estate Powerscourt Waterfall in County Wicklow Ireland has an impressive setting and is a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic.
Russborough House
Designed by German architect Richard Cassels and built during the middle of the 18th century, Russborough House in County Wicklow Ireland is said to be the longest house in the country. Visitors to the Palladian Russborough will be taken on a journey through the house by the expert guides who will enlighten guests on the fascinating history, architecture, antiques and other highlights of the house. Notable aspects not to be missed in Russborough House include a fine art collection including a large part of the Beit art collection, exceptional Louis XIV tapestries, 2 antique pianos (one a Steinway dating from 1896) a superb collection of French clocks and the very impressive ornate stucco ceilings and plasterwork. Visits are by guided tour only and private tours are available on request. Tours of the grounds are also available taking in the beautiful gardens, surrounding lakes and stunning countryside. Russborough also has a maze for visitors to explore, you can get a map at reception and when taking on the fun maze make sure to bring your mobile phone in case you lose your way!
Wicklow Mountains National Park & Wicklow Way
Located on the east coast of Ireland the Wicklow Mountains occupy most of the middle of County Wicklow Ireland. On county border areas the mountains also cross into Counties Dublin, Wexford and Carlow. The Wicklow Mountains have played a significant part in the rich and varied history of the area, in the 12th century the mountains offered shelter and acted as a fortress and hiding place for clans opposed to English rule. In the 18th century the mountains sheltered rebels who participated in the 1798 rising. The Wicklow Mountains are also home to Glendalough Valley (the most visited attraction in the mountain range and also where the 6th century monastery at Glendalough is found. The range also features stunning views, forestry, wooded valleys, lakes and streams. The Wicklow Mountains are the largest continuous high ground area in Ireland and peak at 3,035 feet (925 metres) and the uplands are protected under European law as a special area of conservation. Activities include, rock climbing, fishing, cycling and walking along the Wicklow Way, Ireland’s first Waymarked Trail which opened in 1980.
Bray
Bray town in Northeast County Wicklow Ireland is known as the “Gateway to the Garden of Ireland” and Bray with is rich heritage and beautiful scenery has much to offer visitors to the area. Attractions and activities include the Bray Head Walk, Killruddery House and Gardens, Mermaid Arts Centre, equestrian centres, fishing, golf, amusement arcades, bowling, water-sports and the marvelous mile long seafront promenade where the National Sealife Centre and aquarium with hundreds of species of marine life can be found.
Wicklow Town
Situated on the East coast, Wicklow Town, its name taken from the Old Norse “Vikinglow” meaning Viking meadow, is the county town of County Wicklow. The town, which is said to have been founded by the Vikings around 795AD, is approximately 31 miles (50 km) from Dublin City. Attractions in Wicklow Town, County Wicklow Ireland include The Black Castle ruins, Wicklow’s (allegedly haunted) Historic Gaol (jail) and the Halpin Trail which tells the story of one of the town’s most famous people, the renowned 19th Century Mariner Captain Robert Halpin.
