Rathdrum: Trails, Landscape and History

Rathdrum combines a striking location above the Avonmore Valley with walking trails, attractions and local history. If you are looking for a hotel in Rathdrum, you can base your choice on the themes you want to shape your stay: landscape and trails, a visit to Greenan Maze, or the history of the town. Train connections from Rathdrum may also play a part in planning your journey.

Landscape, River and Trails

Rathdrum is situated high on the western side of the Avonmore Valley. From here, there are views of the River Avonmore, which flows through the Vale of Clara. The river and valley give the area a distinct landscape, while several walking options offer different ways to enjoy the outdoors.

The Samuel Hayes Suspension Bridge crosses the Avonmore River and connects the trail at Hidden Valley Park with Rathdrum. It opened in June 2021. The Avonmore Way connects Rathdrum with Glendalough and the Wicklow Way. Check for current trail updates before setting out on a walk.

The Jubilee Loop starts at the car park of the Church of Ss. Mary and Michael in Rathdrum. An information board and further details about the walk are available at the starting point. Before setting out, check for notices about any current diversions.

Greenan Maze and Other Attractions

In Greenan, Rathdrum, Greenan Maze offers winding mazes, traditional farm animals, three farm museums and nature trails. Access is seasonal. If you are particularly interested in the stories and historical content of the place, you could consider a guided tour, which combines entertainment with animal feeding. As tours may only be available seasonally, it is advisable to check what is currently on offer before your trip.

Another attraction in Rathdrum is Beyond the Trees Avondale. The 1.4-kilometre treetop walk ends at a 38-metre-high observation tower. From there, the panoramic view stretches across the Wicklow Mountains, the Avonmore River and the Vale of Avoca. A 90-metre spiral slide leads down from the tower. As operating details may change, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.

Local History and Avondale

Rathdrum was the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, and the Parnell National Memorial Park is located in the town. Nearby, Avondale House and Forest Park is set in a woodland park of more than 500 acres. Avondale is also connected with forestry history: in 1904, it was the site of Ireland’s first forestry school. Around Rathdrum, you can explore both the town’s history and Ireland’s forestry heritage.

Getting Here and Choosing Where to Stay

From Rathdrum railway station, trains run north to destinations including Wicklow Town, Greystones, Bray and Dublin. Southbound connections include Wexford and Rosslare Ferry Port. Destinations and services may change, so check the current timetable before travelling.

County Wicklow as a Regional Setting

Beyond Rathdrum, County Wicklow offers further landscapes and historical attractions. In Glendalough, St Kevin founded a monastery in the 6th century. The remains of the Monastic City include a round tower, numerous medieval stone churches and carved crosses. Wicklow Mountains National Park covers 20,000 hectares and is an important recreational area for locals and tourists.

The history of walking is also part of County Wicklow: the Wicklow Way was Ireland’s first waymarked long-distance trail. The county has more than 50 walking trails, which can be selected by length, location, type, theme and difficulty. These regional options complement Rathdrum’s own trails and attractions; they are destinations in their own right within County Wicklow.

Discover more destinations: Brittas Bay, Avoca, An Láithreach, Wicklow, Kilmacanoge, Tinahely, Roundwood, Oldbridge.

For the broader travel overview: County Wicklow.