Things to do in Wicklow Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Wicklow Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Trace Wicklow's past through ancient ruins, towers, and stately estates.
Glendalough Monastic Site
An iconic early medieval settlement in a dramatic glacial valley, featuring ruins, a round tower and St Kevin's Church.
Powerscourt Estate – Powerscourt House & Gardens
A grand Palladian-era house with expansive formal gardens and historic terraces.
Wicklow Gaol
A 19th-century prison turned museum that tells stories of Wicklow's social history.
Museums
Delve into Wicklow's local history and maritime heritage through dedicated museums.
Wicklow Gaol (Museum)
Explore prison-era life and county history inside a restored 19th-century jail.
Arklow Maritime Museum
Exhibits focused on Arklow's fishing and seafaring heritage.
Religious Monuments
Visit sacred sites set against dramatic mountain landscapes.
Glendalough Round Tower
Tall, iconic tower within the Glendalough monastic complex, a symbol of medieval Ireland.
St Kevin's Church, Glendalough
Ancient ruin tucked into Glendalough's monastic site, rich in history and atmosphere.
National & Theme Parks
Get out into Wicklow's wild scenery, with national parks, valleys, and famous trails.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
Ireland’s largest national park, offering rugged mountains, lakes and panoramic views.
Glendalough Valley
Scenic valley with lakes, trails and historic ruins inside the park.
Wicklow Way
A celebrated long-distance walking route threading through Wicklow's varied landscapes.
Neighborhoods
Explore the towns and villages that give Wicklow its character.
Bray
A lively coastal town with a promenade, beaches and cliff views.
Enniskerry
Charming village at the base of the mountains and gateway to Powerscourt.
Wicklow Town
Historic market town with harbor views and friendly streets.
Free Things to Do
Great outdoors and viewpoints that won’t cost a thing.
Bray Cliff Walk
Coastal cliff-top path with sweeping sea views from Bray to the sea beyond.
Glendalough Lower Lake Loop
A free, easy circuit around Glendalough’s tranquil lake.
Wicklow Way (self-guided sections)
Enjoy self-guided hikes along Wicklow’s scenic trails at no cost.
Gastronomy
Taste local produce and classic Irish flavors in Wicklow’s eateries.
Avoca Kilmacanogue
Iconic shop and café offering local produce, hearty fare and crafts.
The Harbour Bar, Bray
Traditional seaside pub with hearty Irish dishes and a friendly vibe.
Powerscourt Garden Café
Cafe inside the Powerscourt estate serving light meals and pastries.
Nightlife
Evenings in coastal towns offer pubs, live music and cultural spots.
The Harbour Bar, Bray
A classic pub with a welcoming atmosphere and occasional live music.
The Mermaid Arts Centre (Bray)
Venue hosting performances, cinema events and live shows.
Live music sessions in Bray pubs
Regular evenings of traditional tunes and modern sets in town pubs.
Entertainment
Cultural venues host performances, cinema, and events.
The Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray
A hub for theatre, cinema and community events in the seafront town.
Powerscourt Distillery
Tour and tasting experiences celebrating Wicklow’s craft spirits.
Arklow Maritime Museum
Exhibits and displays that bring local seafaring stories to life.
Sports
Outdoor sports and active adventures in mountains and coast.
Lugnaquilla Summit
Hike to Wicklow's highest peak for dramatic views and a rewarding climb.
Wicklow Way
Popular route for multi-day trekking or day hikes through diverse scenery.
Bray Golf Club
Coastal golf course with challenging holes and sea air.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and lesser-known routes for a more rugged Wicklow experience.
Glenmalure Valley
Secluded valley with rugged trails and a sense of wild Wicklow.
Laragh to Glendalough detours
Less-traveled paths offering serene scenery and solitude.
Scenic detours around Wicklow's lakes
Quiet lakes and forest tracks away from the main routes.