Dog-Friendly Wicklow
By Alan Kelly
Here at Wicklow County Tourism we love dogs and Wicklow county is full of pet-owners eager to know more about places and spaces that welcome our four-legged friends. So, we’ve put together some rules and regulations and recommendations of all the best dog-friendly places and spaces open to our canine companions. Below we have compiled a list of b&bs, eateries, parks, beaches and what a dog can and cannot do in public…Enjoy!
Wicklow National Park
All dogs (pedigree, designer, multi-tasking mongrels and pavement specials) are welcome in the National Park, but dog owners must be aware the area is for the conservation of nature, so it goes without saying: dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Regrettably, goats, squirrels and sheep have been mauled by unsupervised dogs in recent years. Incidents like this must be avoided and pet-owners need to remain vigilant. If your dog attacks their livestock, farmers are legally entitled to shoot and kill your dog. And none of us want that. And for licensing, breeding, microchipping and lost and found go here. Rules pet-owners need to be aware of when walking your dog in the woods
COILLTE
It is the policy of Wicklow Uplands Council, and Mountaineering Ireland that dogs not be allowed on open mountain lands. Wicklow Mountains National Park asks that dogs be kept on a lead at all times to prevent disturbance to grazing livestock, wildlife and ground nesting birds. In line with official legal legislation, Coillte asks that dogs on their property are kept under control at all times.
The following dog breeds must be on a lead and muzzled at all times in a public place:
Dog Friendly Things To Do
Sharpe’s Hill Animal Sanctuary
Sharpes Hill Animal Sanctuary holds an annual dog show on July 21st 2022 and the fundraiser kicks off at 2:00pm (after registration) with many of the rescue dogs taking part in exciting competitions, classes and activities with the winner going forward for Best Overall Winner. And if any of visitors to the site are thinking of adopting a pet and giving a dog their forever home, please go here
Dog Parks
There are quite a few Dog Parks in the county where man’s best friend can run free and socialize with brand new furry friends! The Murrough Dog Exercise Park is a welcome addition and compliments the existing amenities on the seafront. The park allows for dogs to exercise off the leash and has created a safe and enjoyable space for dogs and pet owners to meet and socialise.
Public Beaches
Here is information on monitored beaches throughout the county of Wicklow for dog-owners. 2012 Wicklow County Council bye laws state what dog-owners can and cannot do in public.
Where to Eat
No 8 South Quay
An interesting new eatery in Wicklow Town is No 8 South Quay and customers are welcome to bring their dogs along with them. Best toasties in Wicklow.
Harbour Bar Bray
A favorite haunt for pet-owners is the super dog-friendly Harbour Bar in Bray.
Places to Stay
Wicklow Way Lodge and Campsite
The Wicklow Way Lodge is a fine establishment located in the heart of The Wicklow Mountains. A great place for exercise, fresh air, gorgeous scenery and lots of wide-open spaces for your dog to stretch his legs. Unfortunately, the hotel/Inn is not equipped for pets, people travelling with their furry friends need not worry too much – they have a campsite nearby and dogs are always welcome. That is, if they are well-mannered and behave, the same rule applies to pet owners. There are many hiking trails in the area that are dog friendly. And if your dog fancies a dip, s/he can swim at the Roundwood reservoir and Loch Dan
Glendale Self-Catering
An alternative to the great outdoors and spooky campfur tales is the self-catering option. Glendale self-catering is a glorious venue and a great getaway for guests and their dogs – although they do not allow more than two dogs at a time and like The Wicklow Way Lodge, your pooch must be on his or her best behavior.
You can search Airbnb with the filter “pet friendly” to get the smaller B&B’s locally, for budgetary reasons.
River Valley Holiday Park
The River Valley Holiday Park is another potential holiday destination that doesn’t allow pets in any of their accommodations – but, they do allow all you happy campers to bring along your canine companions (playful puppies to be kept on a lead at all times) to the park – the only stipulation is you must bring your own tent or caravan.
Silver Strand Beach and Camping
Most people like to take their pets with them when they go on holiday. Silver Strand’s coastal caravan park attracts a vibrant clientele during the summer months and happily accommodates pet owners. When you do decide to take a dip in the ocean, your dogs must be kept off the beach.
Enjoy!
