If you’re looking for things to do in Wicklow, you’ll find plenty to fill a day, a weekend or even longer. From mountain scenery and historic estates to coastal towns and family attractions, there’s something for every kind of break. Summerhill House Hotel is a country house hotel in Enniskerry, surrounded by some of the best-known places to visit in Wicklow. For anyone looking at hotels in Wicklow for a weekend away, it offers a peaceful base for exploring the county’s mountains, gardens, villages and coast.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
For some of the best places to visit in Wicklow, start in the mountains. Wicklow Mountains National Park covers a large area of upland landscape, with valleys, lakes, forests and open mountain roads to explore.
If you’re wondering what to do in Wicklow, there are plenty of options here. You can take a long hike, choose a shorter trail or simply enjoy a scenic drive. The Wicklow Way also passes through the mountains and is one of Ireland’s best-known long-distance walking routes.
Spending time in the mountains is one of the best things to do in Wicklow, especially if you’re the outdoorsy type. The scenery changes with the weather, which is part of its charm.
Glendalough
Glendalough is one of the county’s most recognisable sights. The valley is home to a historic monastic site, two beautiful lakes and a selection of walking trails.
It’s a great choice for anyone looking for things to do in Wicklow that combine history and the outdoors. You can explore the remains of the monastic settlement before heading towards the lakes and surrounding trails.
There are walks to suit different abilities, although some routes are more demanding than others. Give yourself plenty of time if you want to explore beyond the main visitor area.
Powerscourt Estate and Gardens
Powerscourt Gardens is another must-see spot and is just a stone’s throw from Summerhill House Hotel. The formal gardens, terraces, woodland and views towards Sugarloaf Mountain make it easy to spend a few hours here.
For visitors planning what to do in Wicklow, Powerscourt offers a lovely mix of gardens, history and scenery. There is plenty to explore throughout the estate, with something different to enjoy in every season.
It’s one of the easiest things to do in Wicklow when you want to combine sightseeing with time outdoors. Take a walk, enjoy something to eat or simply take your time exploring. It’s a great Wicklow tourist attraction that works well for a relaxed afternoon.
Powerscourt Waterfall
A short drive from the estate brings you to Powerscourt Waterfall, one of Ireland’s highest waterfalls. Set within a wooded valley, it’s an impressive natural sight and an easy addition to a day exploring the area.
If your list of things to do in Wicklow includes getting outdoors without committing to a long mountain hike, then this is worth considering. The surrounding grounds provide space for walking and enjoying the scenery.
It can be particularly lovely when the weather is clear and the landscape around the waterfall is looking its best. Check carpark opening times before you travel, especially outside the main visitor season.
Enniskerry
As Summerhill House Hotel is in Enniskerry, this is an easy place to include in your plans. The village has a green, cafés, shops and a relaxed feel that makes it ideal for a slower afternoon.
Enniskerry also has a connection to the big screen. The village was used as a filming location for Disney’s Disenchanted as well as the much-loved P.S. I Love You.
For anyone interested in Wicklow things to do beyond the major tourist attractions, spending some time in Enniskerry is a simple addition to your itinerary.
The Great Sugarloaf
You don’t need to be an experienced hillwalker to enjoy every outdoor activity in Wicklow. Sugarloaf Mountain is a popular choice for a shorter walk and offers impressive views from the summit.
A walk up Sugarloaf is one of the classic Wicklow things to do and can easily fill an hour or so of your day. The route is relatively short, but the terrain can be uneven and weather conditions can change quickly.
This is another of the classic things to do in Wicklow for visitors who want a short outdoor adventure. The mountain is also easy to recognise from the surrounding roads, making it one of those Wicklow landmarks you’ll notice throughout your trip.
The Wicklow Way and Wicklow Walks
Walking is one of the easiest ways to experience the county. There are so many walking trails for different levels of fitness, from gentle woodland paths to more challenging mountain routes.
The Wicklow Way is a longer option for walkers who want to experience more of the countryside over several days. You don’t have to complete the whole route, either. Individual sections can be included in a wider trip.
For a shorter break, look for woodland walks, lakeside paths or scenic routes around the villages. When planning what to do in Wicklow, there are plenty of ways to spend time outdoors without having to follow a strict itinerary.
When considering hotels in Wicklow, think about location. A convenient base can make it easier to spend less time in the car and more time exploring.
Things to Do Wicklow: Bray & Greystones
Wicklow is not all mountains and countryside. There are plenty to do in Bray if you want to spend time by the coast. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoy the amusements or have some fish and chips by the sea.
During the summer months, Bray has an especially lively atmosphere. The traditional carnival brings rides, games and plenty of entertainment to the seafront. It’s a great spot for families and visitors of all ages. Bray is an easy place to spend a few hours – so be sure to put it on your list of things to do Wicklow!
Just along the coast, the neighbouring town of Greystones has a lovely, relaxed vibe. Its harbour, cafés, restaurants and coastal views make it a great place to spend a few hours. You can also walk between the two towns along the popular cliff walk, taking in the scenery along the way. If you’re putting together a bit of a Greystones guide, it’s definitely worth including the harbour and cliff walk!
Gardens in Wicklow
Wicklow is often called the Garden of Ireland, so it makes sense to include some of those gardens in your plans. Powerscourt is one of the best known, but it’s not the only option.
Garden lovers can also explore places such as Mount Usher Gardens and Killruddery House & Gardens, depending on opening times and what else you want to see.
For visitors searching for Wicklow attractions, a garden visit can be an easy way to slow the pace. You can combine one with lunch, afternoon tea, or a gentle walk.
Some Other Wicklow Attractions
Some of the best Wicklow tourist attractions are slightly further off the usual tourist route. That makes them worth considering if you have more than one day.
Families may enjoy Clara Lara Funpark, an outdoor attraction near Rathdrum with activities and plenty of space to spend the day outside. It is a particularly useful option when looking for family-friendly things to do in Wicklow.
For something very different, head to Beyond the Trees Avondale. The treetop walk leads through the forest to a viewing tower with panoramic views across the surrounding landscape. Avondale House is also part of the site, giving visitors the chance to explore its history.
Another must-see is Sally Gap. The scenic route through the Wicklow Mountains offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, with Lough Tay and other mountain scenery along the way. It’s ideal for a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities to stop and take amazing photos.
Planning Your Wicklow Break
With so many things to do in Wicklow, it can be tempting to fit everything into one trip. But you don’t need to!
Choose a few areas and give yourself time to enjoy them. You could spend one day exploring Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains, another around Powerscourt and Enniskerry, and another on the coast.
If you’re searching Wicklow hotels for your next break, Summerhill House Hotel offers a country house setting in Enniskerry. It’s the perfect base for exploring the surrounding mountains, gardens, villages and coastal towns.
Whether you’re planning a weekend of walks, sightseeing or simply enjoying the scenery, there are plenty of things to do.