Wicklow is the perfect place to visit in summer with beautiful parklands and amazing scenery. The county also has a rich heritage and plenty of historical places to visit.
With all these factors in mind, Hospitality Ireland decided to examine the top ten visitor attractions in Wicklow, based on Fáilte Ireland’s Visitor Attractions Survey 2022.
1. Powerscourt House, Gardens And Waterfall
(418,203)
Powerscourt House is a Palladian mansion that was home to Lord Powerscourt and his family for over 350 years.
Visitors can explore 47 acres of gardens set in the Wicklow Mountains with hundreds of different types of plants, flowers and trees along with statues, fountains and ornamental lakes.
Once this is done, visitors can enjoy a snack and a coffee in Avoca Café.
2. Glendalough Monument & Site
(335,853)
Glendalough is a glacial valley which offers incredible scenery and exciting hikes.
The church ruins and decorative crosses of the ancient monastic settlement founded by St Kevin in the 6th century has become one of the most famous religious sites in Europe.
Those looking for adventure can hike into the hills for the Glendalough Spinc Walk which offers excellent views from Spinc Ridge.
3. Russborough House & Parklands
(200,000)
Russborough House is a Palladian mansion with a private art collection with works from Gainsborough, Singer Sargent and van Ostade.
The interactive exhibition allows visitors to find out more about the three families who have inhabited Russborough since 1751.
The 18th century walled garden is currently being restored and visitors are encouraged to explore the parklands, wildlife trail and woodland.
3. Kilamcurragh Gardens
(139,960)
Kilmacurragh is home to one of the most important plant collections in the country and features a collection of old and unusual trees, wildflower meadows and double herbaceous borders. The garden dates from the early 18th century and restoration work of the estate has been ongoing for a number of years.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the wildflower meadows and their changing flora of snowdrops, crocuses, narcissi and native orchids all growing in tapestries of wild flowers and grasses.
With the recent acquisition of the former Deer Park and the walled garden, plans are now being made to further develop the garden in keeping with its past while also looking to the future.
4. National Sealife Centre
(123,500)
Sadly the National Sealife Centre in Bray has closed since 2022. The aquatic zoo had over 30 displays and was home to over 1,000 sea creatures.
5. Glendalough Visitor Centre
(44,481)
Glendalough Visitor Centre offers exhibition and audiovisual shows. Visitors can also opt for a guided tour where they can learn about the Glendalough's history.
