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Outline: What to Do in Wicklow

What makes Wicklow captivating is the way it blends the extraordinary with the everyday. A place where ancient monastic sites sit beside contemporary art museums and memorials, or the tranquil gardens complementing rugged coastlines. 

This guide on what to do in Wicklow will charm any reader! Regardless of your unique interests or preferences.

Organised into six categories, the article highlights Wicklow’s finest offerings: 

From ancient monasteries to haunted gaols, its heritage invites you to step back in time. And the best part? You can experience all of this and more with a customised luxury tour from Dublin designed to showcase the East Coast’s wonders in style.

Read on, and find the perfect spots for you!

1. History and Heritage

Before checking out any other Wicklow sights, attractions, and coastal escapes, we need to pay our respects to history and what came before. 

Glendalough Monastic City

Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, this settlement lies nestled between two serene lakes. Its iconic Round Tower, constructed from local granite and mica schist, rises 33 metres high, a silent sentinel watching over the valley. 

The site features ruins like Reefert Church, once a royal burial ground, and intricately carved stone crosses, softened by moss and time. Spring brings an explosion of wood anemones and primroses, colouring the pathways leading to the Upper Lake, where whispers of Celtic devotion linger.

Wicklow Gaol

Wicklow Gaol is a grim testament to Ireland’s turbulent history. Built in 1702, its grey granite walls house chilling tales of rebellion, famine, and transportation. 

Wicklow, Ireland things to do…for thrill-seekers and the lovers of the macabre! It’s the Interactive exhibits immerse visitors in the harsh lives of prisoners. Simultaneously, the "Gates of Hell" VR tour brings the 18th century to life with ghostly realism. 

For thrill-seekers, night tours explore the gaol’s haunted reputation, making it an unforgettable experience.

Baltinglass Abbey

Baltinglass Abbey, founded in 1148, stands as a haunting blend of Cistercian simplicity and Irish Romanesque style. Its pale granite arches frame the Wicklow landscape, with alternating square and round columns showcasing masterful craftsmanship. Once among Ireland’s wealthiest monasteries, it fell to ruin during the Reformation.

 Today, moss-covered stones and meadow grass reclaim the site, where the faint scent of wild thyme drifts on the breeze.

The Castletimon Heritage Trail

The Castletimon Heritage Trail reveals layers of history, from Bronze Age stone circles to a 4th-century Ogham stone etched with angular script. 

These weathered stones connect visitors to Wicklow’s ancient tribes and celestial rituals. Nearby, a 17th-century graveyard and an 18th-century mill tell further stories of resilience and survival, making this trail a journey through millennia.

2. Gardens and Stately Homes

Wicklow’s gardens and stately homes are living works of art, where every path leads to a story. These sanctuaries blend human ingenuity with the wild beauty of nature, offering visitors a sensory feast.

Powerscourt Estate and Gardens

Spanning 47 acres, Powerscourt Estate invites you into a world of elegance. The Italian Garden cascades down terraces adorned with statues, while the Japanese Garden hides winding paths under a canopy of fiery red maples. 

Stroll past the walled gardens, the pet cemetery, and the ornamental lake before retreating to the café, where views of Sugarloaf Mountain accompany every bite.

Mount Usher Gardens

Mount Usher is a haven of colour and life, where 5,000 plants create a tapestry of textures along the Avonmore River. Wander shaded glades, spot hidden ferns, and pick up a Tree Trail Map to discover ancient specimen trees. Finish your visit with a treat at the courtyard café, surrounded by the whisper of leaves and birdsong.

June Blake’s Garden

June Blake’s Garden is a bold, experimental marvel set on a former Victorian farm. Its reflecting pools mirror bold herbaceous borders, while ferns and bamboo thrive in shaded woodland.

Giant granite boulders punctuate the space, grounding its exuberance with a sense of permanence. Each twist of the path reveals a surprise: a minimalist courtyard here, a tropical prairie there.

Russborough House and Gardens

Russborough House is a canvas of art and nature. Inside, masterpieces by Gainsborough and Sargent hang in stately rooms. Outside, children lose themselves in the maze while adults stroll fairy trails through the gardens. The café and gift shop add a contemporary touch to this 18th-century mansion, ensuring something for every visitor.

Kilmacurragh House and Botanic Gardens

The ruins of Kilmacurragh House stand as a poetic reminder of the past, their weathered walls entwined with ivy. Surrounding them, the National Botanic Gardens flourish in a unique microclimate. 

Conifers from the Himalayas and Southern Hemisphere calcifuges thrive in acidic soils, making this a treasure trove for plant enthusiasts. Each step here bridges the gap between history and nature.

3. The Great Outdoors

What to do in Wicklow Ireland if you are the outdoorsy type? Wicklow’s atural landscapes are its crowning glory, offering adventure, tranquillity, and connection to the raw beauty of Ireland. From mountain trails to ancient forests, every step reveals a new marvel.

Wicklow Mountains National Park

A haven for explorers, Wicklow Mountains National Park boasts trails for all abilities, from the 130-km Wicklow Way to the serene Green Road Walk in Glendalough. Derrybawn Woodland Trail climbs through dense forest, while monastic ruins dot the landscape, offering glimpses into Ireland’s spiritual past.

For thrill-seekers, rock climbing and wild camping provide a true wilderness experience, with heather-scented air and the crunch of ancient bog underfoot.

Lough Tay (Guinness Lake)

Lough Tay, nicknamed "The Guinness Lake," enchants visitors with its striking resemblance to a pint of stout. Framed by the Wicklow Mountains, its dark waters and sandy northern shore are best admired from Military Road. 

The shimmering quartzite sand contrasts vividly with the lake’s inky depths, creating a scene that’s both otherworldly and unmistakably Irish.

Beyond the Trees Avondale

High above the canopy, Beyond the Trees Avondale invites you to see Wicklow from a bird’s perspective. Ireland’s longest treetop walk winds through ancient woodland, culminating at a spiral Viewing Tower. 

From here, panoramic views sweep across the Wicklow Mountains and Vale of Avoca. Adventurers can end their journey with a thrilling ride down the 90-metre slide, adding an unforgettable twist to this arboreal escape.

The Glen of Imaal

The Glen of Imaal is a remote, rugged valley where nature and history converge. Encircled by the towering slopes of Lugnaquilla, the highest peak in Leinster, the Glen is a favourite for climbers and seasoned hikers. 

Military remnants from its use as an artillery range lend a stark contrast to the wildflowers and grassy slopes. The whisper of mountain winds carries stories of Irish rebels who once sought refuge here.

Tomnafinnoge Woods

Tomnafinnoge Woods is an ancient oak forest, its towering trees a link to Ireland’s prehistoric past. Easy-to-moderate walking trails wind through this Special Area of Conservation, including the River Walk, where the Derry River glides past moss-covered roots. The scent of damp earth and the rustle of leaves create a peaceful soundtrack for family strolls or solitary reflection.

4. Coastal Escapes

Wicklow’s coastline is a sanctuary of unspoiled beauty, where golden sands meet the rhythm of the Irish Sea. Each beach offers a unique slice of serenity, whether you’re seeking solitude or seaside adventure.

Brittas Bay

Stretching 5 kilometres, Brittas Bay is a sweep of soft, powdery sand framed by undulating dunes. A Blue Flag designation ensures pristine water quality, and the dunes themselves are alive with rare plant species like sea holly and sand couch grass. 

The gently lapping waves and wide-open spaces make this a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and families alike.

Silver Strand

Tucked between rocky cliffs, Silver Strand offers a retreat from the world. Its crescent-shaped shoreline is a symphony of soft sands and the rhythmic crash of waves, perfect for those seeking a quiet day by the sea. As a lesser-known gem, it guarantees tranquillity, while its proximity to Wolohan’s Caravan Park makes it an excellent stop for extended stays.

Magheramore Beach

Magheramore Beach is a pristine hideaway just 10 minutes from Wicklow Town. Its golden sands are punctuated by hidden rock pools brimming with life, delighting curious children and avid photographers. 

Surrounded by tree-lined cliffs, this beach feels like a secluded escape, whether you’re splashing in the waves, surfing, or simply soaking up the coastal breeze.

5. Quirky and Unusual Locations

Wicklow isn’t just about natural beauty and heritage—it’s also a playground for the curious and unconventional. These eccentric spots defy the ordinary, offering stories and sights you won’t find on a typical itinerary.

Kilmacurragh House

At the edge of the National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh House stands in poetic decay, its Queen Anne-style architecture hinting at a grand past. Built in 1697 with stones salvaged from a medieval abbey, the house is steeped in layered history. Nature has crept in, with ivy softening the weathered walls and wildflowers brightening the grounds. While its interior remains gutted by a fire, the structure endures—a silent testament to resilience amid the elements.

Dan Clancy Memorial Chair

High on Slievecorragh Mountain, a bronze chair sits with a teddy bear as its quiet occupant. This unusual memorial honours Dan Clancy, a local man whose favourite pastime was watching the sunset here with his family. The chair’s silver ring and weather-worn bear hold deeply personal meaning, while other hillwalkers have added their own plush tributes over time. The view stretches over the plains of Kildare, golden and eternal as if frozen in Dan’s memory.

The Central Shop

In the heart of Rathdrum, an eccentric house boldly painted in Mayo’s red and green stands defiantly. Known locally as “The Central Shop,” it’s not a shop at all but a shrine to one man’s love for his rival county’s Gaelic football team. The vibrant façade tells a playful tale of fandom and folklore, complete with the curse that allegedly plagues Mayo’s All-Ireland ambitions. It’s quirky, unapologetic, and pure Irish humour.

Victor’s Way Indian Sculpture Park

Victor’s Way isn’t your typical sculpture garden—it’s a journey into the surreal. Nestled in Wicklow’s greenery, this park is dotted with larger-than-life sculptures inspired by Indian spirituality and philosophy. Towering meditative figures and symbolic installations challenge visitors to reflect as they meander through tranquil paths. The park feels like stepping into a parallel world, one where art and thought intertwine in ways both contemplative and bizarre.

6. Culture and Creativity

Wicklow thrives not just in its landscapes but in its vibrant cultural tapestry. From maritime legacies to artistic hubs, these destinations celebrate human ingenuity and creativity in all its forms.

Arklow Maritime Museum

Step into Arklow Maritime Museum and dive into the rich seafaring history of this coastal town. The collection spans intricately detailed shipbuilders' models, navigation tools, and artefacts, all donated by local families. Among the highlights are paintings by Pier Head artist Ruben Chappell, immortalising Arklow’s sailing ships. Each exhibit whispers stories of resilience and innovation, offering a window into the lives of those who braved the Irish Sea.

Mermaid Arts Centre

In the heart of Bray, the Mermaid Arts Centre pulses with creativity. Its 242-seat auditorium hosts everything from experimental theatre to live music and dance. Bright, airy galleries showcase contemporary art exhibitions, while the Betelnut Café offers the perfect spot to unwind before a show. More than just a venue, the Mermaid is a hub where artists and audiences connect, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inspiration.

Avoca Mill

Ireland’s oldest working mill, Avoca Mill has been weaving tales of craftsmanship since 1723. Watch the rhythmic dance of looms as skilled artisans create the throws and scarves that have made Avoca a household name. Outside, the tranquil River Avoca meanders past, adding a serene soundtrack to the experience. After exploring the mill, stroll through the village, where history lingers in every cobblestone and tree-lined path.

Conclusion

We hope we answered the question on what to do in Wicklow, whatever your unique tastes might be. From the towering oak forests to its most eccentric corners, let this guide inspire your next journey into Ireland’s Garden County.

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