Free County Wicklow Travel Guide & Mobile App

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County Wicklow
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Explore County Wicklow for Glendalough, mountain walks, coastal towns, historic estates, gardens and distinctive Irish countryside south of Dublin.

County Wicklow occupies a remarkably varied stretch of eastern Ireland, immediately south of Dublin and extending from the Irish Sea into a broad interior of uplands, forested valleys and mountain lakes. Often known as the Garden of Ireland because of its landscaped estates, fertile lowlands and wooded scenery, the county is defined just as strongly by the granite mass of the Wicklow Mountains. Its landscapes change quickly: seaside promenades and sandy coves give way to rolling farmland, then to open moorland, steep-sided glens and remote upland roads.
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The county's most celebrated historic setting is Glendalough, an early Christian monastic settlement founded by St Kevin in the sixth century. Its surviving round tower, churches and graveyards stand within a valley of lakes and walking trails, now protected within Wicklow Mountains National Park. Elsewhere, Powerscourt Estate near Enniskerry combines formal gardens, woodland walks and views towards the Great Sugar Loaf, while Russborough House near Blessington reflects the scale and ambition of Ireland's eighteenth-century country estates. The village of Avoca is associated with both the meeting of the waters and a long history of copper mining, whereas Wicklow town, Arklow and Greystones retain distinct coastal and maritime identities.
The eastern coast offers a more settled and accessible face of the county. Bray has a long-established seaside character, with a promenade beneath Bray Head and transport links to Dublin; Greystones combines a harbour setting with coastal walking; and Wicklow town centres on a historic port and the remains of a medieval Franciscan foundation. Further south, Arklow has a strong boatbuilding and maritime tradition. Inland, Blessington and the shores of the Poulaphouca Reservoir provide a quieter landscape of water, pasture and hills, while the Military Road crosses the mountains through wide, exposed scenery.
Walking is central to the Wicklow experience, from short woodland routes and estate trails to demanding mountain paths around Lugnaquilla, the county's highest summit. Weather can change rapidly on exposed ground, and even popular valleys require sensible footwear. The county's food culture reflects both coast and countryside: seafood, farm produce, baking, local cheeses and farmhouse cooking appear alongside modern cafés, gastropubs and restaurants. Wicklow is close to Ireland's capital, but its character lies in the contrast between accessible coastal communities and large, sparsely settled mountain landscapes.

When is the best time to visit County Wicklow?

Best: June–August · 19–20°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January890
February970
March1170
April1460
May1660
June (best)1960
July (best)2070
August (best)2080
September1870
October1480
November1090
December890

Getting to and around County Wicklow

How to get there

County Wicklow is reached most conveniently from Dublin, whose international airport and city-centre transport hubs lie outside the county but provide the main gateway for overseas visitors. Rail services from Dublin serve coastal towns including Bray, Greystones, Wicklow town and Arklow, while regional buses connect Dublin with several Wicklow communities. The M11 provides the principal road approach along the east, with other routes leading towards Blessington, the Wicklow Mountains and the south-western valleys. Glendalough, Powerscourt and more remote mountain areas generally require a local bus, organised excursion or car journey.

Transportation

The coastal corridor has the most straightforward public transport, with rail and bus links between Dublin and towns such as Bray, Greystones, Wicklow and Arklow. Services become less frequent in the mountains and around dispersed attractions, so a car is helpful for combining Glendalough, the Military Road, Avoca, Powerscourt and Blessington. Roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in upland districts. Walking and cycling are rewarding on suitable routes, but mountain distances, gradients and changing weather should not be underestimated. Taxis are available in larger towns but should not be assumed in remote valleys.

Top city travel guides in County Wicklow

The cities of County Wicklow, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in County Wicklow

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in County Wicklow

County Wicklow's attractions range from early Christian ruins and grand estates to mountain trails, reservoirs and coastal promenades. Glendalough is the central heritage experience, combining a monastic settlement with lakeside and upland walks in Wicklow Mountains National Park. Powerscourt Estate near Enniskerry is known for its formal gardens, landscaped grounds and views towards the Great Sugar Loaf, while nearby Powerscourt Waterfall provides a separate woodland setting. Russborough House near Blessington explores the history of an eighteenth-century estate beside the Poulaphouca Reservoir. Along the coast, Bray Head, the promenade at Bray, Greystones and Wicklow town offer accessible walking and maritime character. The Avoca valley adds industrial heritage through its long association with copper mining and weaving. Outdoor visitors can choose from short forest trails, longer mountain routes and cycling roads, although the exposed uplands demand planning. The county's attraction landscape is defined by the contrast between landscaped estates and open mountain country, with secluded valleys and lakes providing a strong sense of distance despite Wicklow's proximity to Dublin.

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Best landmarks in County Wicklow

Glendalough's round tower is County Wicklow's most recognisable historic landmark, rising above the monastic settlement as a surviving symbol of early Christian Ireland. The nearby churches, graveyards and valley lakes create a wider historic landscape rather than a single isolated monument. Powerscourt House and its formal gardens represent the county's eighteenth-century estate culture, while Russborough House near Blessington is a major example of grand country-house architecture in the inland part of Wicklow. The remains of Wicklow town's medieval Black Castle occupy a coastal headland above the harbour, and the ruins of the Franciscan friary add another layer to the town's history. Bray Head and the Great Sugar Loaf are prominent natural landmarks, visible from much of the east and associated with walking and landscape views. Across the mountains, the Military Road is itself a historic landscape feature, linking rugged scenery with the political and military history that followed the 1798 rebellion.

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Explore County Wicklow on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in County Wicklow

Wicklow's dining reflects its geography, combining coastal produce with the farming traditions of the inland valleys. Seafood features naturally in towns such as Bray, Greystones, Wicklow and Arklow, while farm shops, cafés and rural pubs make use of Irish beef, lamb, vegetables, farmhouse cheeses and freshly baked bread. Around Enniskerry, Roundwood, Laragh and Avoca, visitors will find cafés, gastropubs and country restaurants suited to walkers and estate visitors, though opening patterns can be seasonal outside the larger towns. Blessington and the communities around the reservoir provide another focus for casual dining and local produce. Traditional Irish cooking is widely available, but contemporary menus increasingly emphasise seasonal ingredients and lighter dishes. Breakfasts, soups, soda bread, seafood chowder and apple-based baking are useful regional staples to look for, while the county's proximity to Dublin means that dining ranges from simple pub meals to more ambitious restaurants without a single defining cuisine unique to Wicklow.

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Best bars in County Wicklow

Evening life in County Wicklow is centred on traditional pubs, restaurants and community venues rather than a large nightclub circuit. Bray and Greystones provide the broadest choice of bars, cafés, live music and late dining, with Wicklow town and Arklow offering established local pub scenes of their own. Inland villages such as Enniskerry, Roundwood, Laragh and Avoca are more suited to a quiet drink, a meal or conversation in a pub, and options may be limited on slower evenings. Some pubs host traditional music or other live performances, but schedules change and should be checked locally. Seasonal activity increases in coastal towns and around festivals, while visitors staying in the mountains should plan transport in advance rather than rely on late rural services. The region's evening culture is best approached as a social extension of village and town life, not as a destination built around clubs.

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Best nightclubs in County Wicklow

Evening life in County Wicklow is centred on traditional pubs, restaurants and community venues rather than a large nightclub circuit. Bray and Greystones provide the broadest choice of bars, cafés, live music and late dining, with Wicklow town and Arklow offering established local pub scenes of their own. Inland villages such as Enniskerry, Roundwood, Laragh and Avoca are more suited to a quiet drink, a meal or conversation in a pub, and options may be limited on slower evenings. Some pubs host traditional music or other live performances, but schedules change and should be checked locally. Seasonal activity increases in coastal towns and around festivals, while visitors staying in the mountains should plan transport in advance rather than rely on late rural services. The region's evening culture is best approached as a social extension of village and town life, not as a destination built around clubs.

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Best shops in County Wicklow

Shopping in County Wicklow is strongest in its market towns, coastal centres and independent village streets rather than in large luxury retail districts. Bray and Greystones offer the widest selection of everyday shops, cafés, galleries and small food businesses, while Wicklow town and Arklow combine practical high-street shopping with local services and independent retailers. Enniskerry, Avoca and other visitor villages are useful places to look for crafts, books, homewares, art and locally produced food, although individual businesses vary by season. Farm shops and producers' outlets may offer cheeses, preserves, baking, chocolates and other Irish specialities suitable for gifts or picnics. The county's association with gardens and rural estates is reflected in plant sales, garden-related goods and craft products around major estates. Visitors should distinguish durable local products from generic souvenirs, and check market days locally because smaller farmers' and craft markets do not operate every day.

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County Wicklow essentials

Currency and Payment
County Wicklow uses the euro, with the currency code EUR, like the rest of the Republic of Ireland. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, shops, restaurants and major visitor sites, particularly in coastal towns and larger villages. Carry some cash for small purchases, rural cafés, honesty boxes, car parks or businesses with unreliable mobile reception. Bank branches and cash machines are more limited in rural districts than in Bray, Greystones, Wicklow town or Arklow, so obtain cash before heading into the mountains.
Safety
Wicklow is generally straightforward for visitors, but outdoor conditions deserve careful attention. Mountain paths may be wet, boggy, rocky or poorly visible in mist, and mobile reception is not guaranteed in every valley. Check weather conditions, carry water and suitable clothing, and tell someone your intended route for longer walks. Take care near cliffs, lakes and fast-flowing rivers, and observe any swimming warnings. On rural roads, drive slowly around bends and allow for walkers, cyclists, farm vehicles and limited passing places.
Emergency Situations
For police, fire and ambulance services in County Wicklow, call 112 or 999 and give the precise location, including a townland, road name, trail marker or recognised landmark where possible. The same national emergency numbers apply throughout Ireland. In a mountain or remote outdoor emergency, ask for the appropriate rescue service and follow the operator's instructions; in coastal emergencies, the coastguard may be involved. For non-urgent medical needs, seek advice from a local pharmacy, GP service or healthcare provider rather than using emergency services.
Do's and Don'ts
Do keep dogs under control, close gates, avoid damaging walls or bogland and take litter home on rural walks. Do give way safely on narrow roads and respect residents, farmers and other walkers. At Glendalough, churches and graveyards are active heritage and religious spaces, so behave quietly and do not climb on ruins. Do ask before photographing people or private property. Tipping in Ireland is discretionary rather than compulsory, but it is appreciated for good service in restaurants, cafés and taxis; check whether a service charge has already been added.
Local Tips
Coastal towns and mountain attractions work well as separate itinerary areas rather than being treated as a series of short hops. Early or late visits to Glendalough can be more peaceful, while the coast is easiest to explore by rail. The Wicklow Mountains are darker and quieter than the settled east, but facilities are limited, so fill up with fuel and provisions beforehand. Avoca, Enniskerry, Laragh, Roundwood and Blessington each offer different perspectives on the county, from mining and estate history to lakeside and upland scenery.
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From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloDia dhuit[dee-ah gwitch]
GoodbyeSlán[slawn]
YesTá[taw]
NoNíl[neel]
Please/You're welcomeLe do thoil[leh duh hull]
Thank youGo raibh maith agat[guh rev mah agat]
Excuse me/SorryGabh mo leithscéal[guh mo lehs-kayl]
How are you?Conas atá tú?[kun-as uh-taw too]
Fine. And you?Go maith. Agus tusa?[guh mah. ah-gus toosa]
Do you speak English?An labhraíonn tú Béarla?[an law-ree-on too bay-arlah]
I don't understandNí thuigim[nee hig-im]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBa mhaith liom an mhuirín a fheiceáil, le do thoil[ba wah lum on wir-een a eh-hawkil, leh duh hull]
I don't eat meatNí ithim feoil[nee ih-im fayl]
Cheers!Sláinte![slawn-che]
I would like to pay, pleaseBa mhaith liom íoc, le do thoil[ba wah lum eek, leh duh hull]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Cabhraigh![cow-ree]
Go away!Imigh uait![im-ee oo-it]
Call the Police!Glaoigh ar na Póilíní![glaw-ee ar na pole-een-ee]
Call a doctor!Glaoigh ar dochtúir![glaw-ee ar dok-tur]
I'm lostTáim caillte[taw-im ky-lta]
I'm illTáim tinn[taw-im tin]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom a cheannach...[ba wah lum a khan-ukh]
I'm just lookingTáim ag faire[taw-im egg far-e]
How much is it?Cá mhéad atá sé?[caw vade uh-taw shay]
That's too expensiveTá sé ró-chostasach[taw shay row-kos-tahkh]
Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a ísliú?[an fay-dur lat on pra-ghas a eesh-lee]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Cén t-am é?[kane tawm ay]
It's one o'clockTá sé a haon a chlog[taw shay a hayn a khlog]
Half past (10)Leath-uair tar éis (10)[lah-oo-ir tar aysh (10)]
MorningMaidin[maiden]
AfternoonTráthnóna[traw-no-na]
EveningTráthnóna[traw-no-na]
YesterdayInné[in-yeh]
TodayInniu[in-nyoo]
TomorrowAmárach[a-mah-rah]
1Aon[ayn]
2Dó[doh]
3Trí[tree]
4Ceathair[kah-hir]
5Cuig[kig]
6Sé[shay]
7Seacht[shacht]
8Ocht[oct]
9Naoi[nee]
10Deich[deh]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil an...?[caw wil on...?]
What's the address?Cad é an seoladh?[cad ay on shol-adh?]
Can you show me (on the map)?An féidir leat a thaispeáint dom (ar an mapa)?[an fay-dur lat a hash-paynt dum (ar on map-ah)?]
When's the next (bus)?Cathain a mbeidh an (bus) eile?[kah-in a myay on (bus) el-eh?]
A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go ....)[ti-kayd (guh ....)]

History of County Wicklow

Prehistoric Landscapes and Early Settlement

Wicklow's mountains and lowlands contain evidence of settlement extending back thousands of years, including megalithic monuments, burial sites and early agricultural landscapes. The upland environment was not an empty wilderness: valleys, river corridors and fertile coastal areas supported successive communities. Bronze Age and Iron Age remains, together with hillforts and standing stones, demonstrate the long relationship between people and the county's distinctive granite terrain. Much of this archaeological heritage is subtle in the landscape, surviving as earthworks, stones or field patterns rather than monumental ruins.

Glendalough and Early Christian Ireland

Glendalough was established by St Kevin in the sixth century and developed into one of medieval Ireland's important ecclesiastical centres. Its settlement included churches, domestic buildings, burial grounds and a prominent round tower, while its remote valley helped sustain a tradition of religious retreat and pilgrimage. The monastery endured through centuries of political change before its formal suppression in the late medieval period. The surviving ruins and surrounding lakes remain among the clearest physical expressions of Ireland's early Christian heritage.

Norman Expansion and Medieval Wicklow

Following the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland in the late twelfth century, coastal and lowland parts of Wicklow were drawn into new networks of lordship, landholding and fortified settlement. Wicklow town became an important port, while castles, churches and monastic houses reflected the contested nature of the region. The mountains also provided refuge for Gaelic lordships and later made effective control difficult. This frontier character shaped Wicklow's history for centuries, leaving a mixture of Norman, Gaelic and later English influences in its settlement patterns.

The 1798 Rebellion and the Military Road

Wicklow was deeply affected by the 1798 rebellion against British rule. Fighting took place in and around the county, including the Battle of Arklow, while the Wicklow Mountains became a base for insurgent activity and pursuit. In the aftermath, the British authorities constructed the Military Road across the mountains between 1799 and 1809 to improve movement through terrain that had been difficult to control. Today the route is a scenic mountain road, but its origins lie in the security concerns of a turbulent period.

Mining and Industrial Wicklow

The Avoca valley became one of Ireland's most significant mining areas, particularly for copper. Mining activity developed over a long period and expanded during the industrial age, shaping the village, river valley and local employment. The workings, spoil landscapes and processing remains form an important industrial legacy, even though large-scale extraction has ceased. Other parts of Wicklow also saw quarrying, forestry and small industries, demonstrating that the county's modern history was not solely agricultural or associated with country estates.

Estates, Gardens and the Development of Tourism

From the eighteenth century onwards, wealthy landowners developed estates such as Powerscourt and Russborough, creating formal gardens, parkland and grand houses that still influence Wicklow's visitor identity. Improved roads and the railway along the coast later made the county more accessible from Dublin. Seaside resorts including Bray grew through the nineteenth century, while mountain scenery attracted walkers, artists and excursionists. This combination of estate landscapes, coastal recreation and accessible countryside helped establish Wicklow as one of eastern Ireland's principal leisure regions.

Conservation and Contemporary Wicklow

The twentieth and twenty-first centuries brought changing land use, suburban growth along the coast and increasing recognition of the county's natural heritage. Wicklow Mountains National Park, established in 1991, protects a large area of upland landscape, heath, woodland, lakes and river valleys. Conservation now sits alongside farming, forestry, recreation and settlement. The county remains closely connected to Dublin while retaining extensive rural areas, and its contemporary identity is shaped by the continuing balance between access to nature, heritage protection and pressure on popular destinations.

County Wicklow in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Neighbouring regions of County Wicklow

The closest regions to County Wicklow, if you have time for more than one.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to County Wicklow

Discover the best of County Wicklow with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more for an unforgettable trip.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Explore County Wicklow like never before with Evendo, your all-in-one travel companion. Plan, book, and discover with ease, ensuring a memorable journey.

  • Comprehensive history and travel essentials for County Wicklow
  • Curated local tips to experience destinations like a local
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs

Imagine stepping into the scenic beauty of County Wicklow, known as the 'Garden of Ireland,' with a travel guide that fits right in your pocket. Evendo, a free app-based travel guide, is designed to help you make the most out of your trip to this enchanting Irish county. From the majestic Glendalough Monastic Site to the stunning Powerscourt Waterfall, Evendo offers detailed information on all the must-see attractions.

Looking for a place to dine? Evendo lists top restaurants like The Wicklow Heather and The Pigeon House Café, complete with descriptions, images, and local tips. Discover hidden gems and popular landmarks such as the Bray Head Cliff Walk and the historic Wicklow Gaol. Whether you're interested in exploring shops, bars, nightclubs, or hotels, Evendo has got you covered.

Planning your trip has never been easier. With Evendo, you can book hotels, tours, and tickets directly through the app. No more hassle of searching for activities and figuring out logistics—everything you need is in one place. The app features travel essentials, local advice, and easy navigation tools, including a 'Near me' function to see nearby attractions and services.

Evendo is not just limited to County Wicklow. It covers over 7,000 destinations worldwide, making it your go-to travel companion wherever you go. Download Evendo today and start your adventure in County Wicklow—a world of discovery awaits you.

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