Discover the top experiences in South Wicklow from Woodenbridge and Avoca to Shillelagh and Carnew.
Experience Wicklow’s Farm Life
South Wicklow offers a fantastic window into the Irish farming lifestyle. There are some great family run experiences dedicated to rural farming life. Greenan Maze, Keadeen Mountain Farm, Tinahely Farm, The Orchard Centre or Rath Bán Farm Cottage offer great family activities including animal farms, nature walks, fairy trail, team building activities and museums that showcase Wicklow’s rich farming heritage. Don’t miss the Tinahely Agri Show, Ireland’s second largest farming event on the August Bank Holiday.
Take a Selfie with the Giant Shillelagh Stick
The authentic Shillelagh Stick has its origins in this area and is still handcrafted locally. From its origins as a fighting weapon, to its current uses as a walking stick or parade gear, this stunning sculpture designed by artist Joey Burns now sits proudly in the village green next to the playground. Learn about the craftsmanship making a traditional stick at the Olde Shillelagh Stick Maker.
Savour the local Foods & Flavours
South Wicklow’s farming communities are producing some of Ireland’s best flavours. From cheeses, jam, chutneys, milk, rapeseed oil, meats and more. There is a growing trend towards sustainable and organic farming and local produces can be purchased at the many village stores such as Shillelagh Outdoors in Shillelagh or at the weekly farmer’s markets in Brooklodge or Aughrim. The Strawberry Tree Restaurant in Brooklodge offers certified organic fine dining.
Walk the Trails and Enjoy the Outdoors
There is a fantastic selection of marked trails for walkers of all ages and abilities. Near Arklow find Glenart Wood Walk and Raheenleigh Wind Farm trails. Avoca and Aughrim offer The Red Kite and Sean Lenihan’s walks. The Walkers Welcome destination of Tinahely offers a variety of walks from Tomnafinnoge short forest trails, to the 20km Kyle loop walk. At Shillelagh, start your 120k challenge along the Wicklow Way (don’t forget to stop at the Dying Cow pub along the way). Other activities include fishing in Aughrim and Golf at Woodenbridge, Macreddin and Coollattin Golf Clubs.
Roam the Ancient Rathgall Hillfort
Rathgall is a multivallate hillfort, on the edge of a ridge with four concentric stone walls and extensive panoramic views. It is an imposing monument covering a total area of 7.5ha (18 acres), with the inner circle measuring 15 metres wide. Excavations, started in 1969 (Raftery), revealed important evidence of Late Bronze Age activity at Rathgall, dating to 800BC. Rathgall was a site of quite exceptional importance in the centuries spanning the birth of Christ, an importance that was clearly pan-European.
Discover Rathwood Centre & Chocolate Garden
The large retail store of Rathwood offers a variety of family attractions such as a tourist train, a deer park and an amazing maze in the shape of Ireland featuring all the various Irish Counties. When in Rathwood, stop at the Chocolate Garden of Ireland: The Award-Winning family business offers handmade chocolates, premium ice cream and delicious sweets and treats. The Chocolate Garden also runs regular chocolate making experiences where you can make your own chocolate mould!
Stamp your Wicklow Passport
The Wicklow Passport is a fantastic way to experience Wicklow and discover the many hidden gems around the County. Order your Wicklow Passport online and get on your way to become a Wicklow Ambassador. Along South Wicklow, collect the Avoca, Aughrim, Tinahely, Shillelagh and Carnew Stamps. Check for stamping locations here. Collect 15 or more stamps and become a Wicklow Ambassador.
