‘Beyond the Trees Avondale’, is a new world class visitor destination in Ireland’s Ancient East that reopened its door in June 2022 following a €19 million redevelopment project by Coillte in partnership with Fáilte Ireland and EAK Ireland.
The longest Treetop Walk in Ireland & the UK, at 1.4km it brings visitors on an adventure through and above the trees, their journey culminating at the impressive Viewing Tower. Here the magnificent architectural tower standing 38m above the forest reveals panoramic 360-degree views over the Wicklow Mountains, the Avonmore River, and the Vale of Avoca. To complete this innovative experience, both adults and children can opt to continue their adventure and whizz their way back down the tower via the gigantic 90m spiral slide. Self-guided tours can be booked in advance online, www.beyondthetreesavondale.com.
‘At Home with the Parnells’, features a newly imagined guided tour of the historic 18th century Avondale House that will celebrate the heritage of the Parnell family. It will encompass the life and times of Charles Stewart Parnell, and the formidable women in his family including his mother, Delia, and his sisters, Fanny & Anna, who were co-founders of the Ladies Land League in 1881. Guided tours will be available to book in advance from Autumn 2022.
Visitors will arrive to a warm welcome at the new state-of-the-art Visitors Centre, with ease of access to the Seed Café where the creative food offerings are crafted through the seasons by the dedicated culinary team from high quality, local Wicklow ingredients. The view from the Seed Café extends out onto the picturesque Walled Garden, including an adventurous children’s playground conveniently located beside the outdoor dining terrace.
Enjoy a complimentary self-guided visit to the Coillte Pavilion where they will learn all about the evolution of forestry in Ireland along with Coillte’s work throughout the past, the present and the plans for the future. Visitors will also explore the themes of forestry for climate, for nature, for wood and for people and how the sector can contribute to our sustainable future and climate action. From the Walled Gardens there is access to the Treetop Walk, the stimulating sensory garden and an abundance of forest walking trails. Visit the website for more information www.beyondthetreesavondale.com