wicklow jail tours

Wicklow’s Historic Gaol – Ireland’s Ancient East

Welcome to Wicklow Jail

The Jailer’s Rest Cafe will continue to open until Christmas eve closing in the afternoon reopening the 28th December @ 10.00 a.m.

DESCRIPTION

Open seven days a week all year round, Wicklow Historic Gaol offers an eclectic programme of events to suit all tastes and ages.

See two turbulent centuries of Irish history come to life on our new audio-visual journey, complete with holographic displays, life-size mannequins, replica prison ship and interpretative panels.

Wander through the 1798 rebellion, the transportation era, the Famine Years and the Irish War of Independence and Civil War.

For a really different night out, mingle with our ghosts at Night Tour  in the dark!  For the brave and curious– book one of our night-time paranormal investigations.

NEW Virtual Reality Experience at  Wicklow Gaol

GATES OF HELL Virtual Reality Tour

This fully immersive experience will transport visitors back in time to Wicklow Gaol in the 1700’s – a grim 3-dimensional world of corruption, rebellion & dark dungeons.  Some of the Gaol’s most notorious prisoners will feature & there may even be a guest appearance from one of the Haunted Gaol’s famous ghosts!

Wicklow’s Historic Gaol is one of Ireland’s Ancient East top attractions.

For more information on ticket prices for day tours, virtual reality, and group rates, visit the Wicklow Gaol website !

Opening Hours

10.30 am -16.30 pm 1st February to 31st November

*11am to 3.30pm – 1st December to 31st January

Map & Contact Details

Kilmantin Hill, Wicklow Town

https://www.wicklowshistoricgaol.com

[email protected]

+353 404 61599

GPS Co-ordinates: Latitude: 52.979141 | Longitude: -6.037897

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• History and heritage

Visit Wicklow’s Historic Gaol to discover the harsh realities of prison life endured by its 18th century inmates. This atmospheric jail museum experience offers a glimpse of life in Ireland’s past in this thought-provoking attraction in Wicklow Town.

Join an interactive tour led by experienced actor guides to hear the story of its prisoners including the participants in the Irish Rebellion of 1798 and inmates awaiting transportation to a new life in Australia.

The jail's original dungeon is open for the first time in over 100 years and so visitors can see first-hand the sights and sounds of harsh life in the dungeon. Wicklow Gaol’s story is interwoven with the history of Wicklow and Ireland itself and is a highlight on any visit to the area.

• Experience life in a Victorian-era prison. 
• Learn from experienced guides on the interactive tour.
• Immersive virtual reality experience transports visitors back in time.
• Take an eerie tour of one of Ireland’s most haunted buildings by night. 
• Enjoy a break at the Jailer's Rest Café.

Wicklow's Historic Gaol, is one of the most haunted places in Ireland. Hear and feel the stories of inmates who shared in its brutal history, and who never left.

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 1 hour 30 minutes here.

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Wicklow’s Historic Gaol

Wicklow’s historic gaol is an interactive experience that visitors will never forget..

The renowned Wicklow’s Historic Gaol stands majestic on Killmantin Hill, in the charming seaside town of Wicklow. ‘Experience’ is at the heart of the programme of historic, interactive and entertaining visitor activities at Wicklow’s Historic Gaol.

The story of prisoners through an interactive tour partially led by experienced and passionate actor guides, Holographic projections of cruel prison guards, sounds of defiant cries from the 1798 rebels and the transformation of three prison floors recreate 200 years of Irish history through the eyes of the inmates.

Learn why Wicklow Gaol is world-renowned as Ireland’s most haunted building with bespoke experiences. The spectacular Gaol is open to visitors seven days a week.

The GATES OF HELL Virtual Reality Tour fully immersive experience will transport visitors back in time to the 1700s.

• The GATES OF HELL Virtual Reality Tour
• An interactive and entertaining experience guaranteed!
• Dramatic re-enactments from costumed characters
• A Haunted Night Tour for the brave
• The ‘Sleep Over in the Gaol’ option
• A re-constructed transport ship like those that brought Irish convicts to Australia

Open Daily Year Round

See website for opening times.

Closed: During the Christmas period and Good Friday

Admission Rates Apply

See the website for admission prices. 

Check out the range of facilities, services, accessibility and other useful information.

DINING / REFRESHMENTS: The Jailer Rest Café, wine bar and bistro is open every Friday & Saturday night from 17:00 until late, serving light bites and main meals.

SHOPPING: Gift shp selling t-shirts, postcards, books, posters and memorabilia.

PARKING: Car and coach parking available on-site.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: The Gaol is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven flagstones, staircases and 3 levels. There is an accessible toilet.

GROUPS: Pre-booking for groups is advisable. Brochures available in German, French, Italian, Spanish, Chinese and Irish.

AWARDS & ACCOLADES:

• TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2017
• Jailer’s Rest Restaurant awarded ‘Taste of Place’ certificate in 2018

From Dublin City: Follow signs for Wexford, then Wicklow. Take the N11 south until exit 16; then take the R772 to Rathnew for 1km. Take the R750 to Wicklow for 3.5km, turn right in Market Square, drive up Kilmantin Hill and take first left into Wicklow Gaol.

From Rosslare Harbour: Follow signs for Dublin, then Wicklow. Take the N25 north until the Drinagh Roundabout, take the first exit onto the N25 until the New Ross roundabout. Take the second exit onto the N11 until The Beehive exit (87km); take the R751 until it ends at Abbey Street, turn right onto Abbey Street and drive straight. Then turn right in Market Square, drive up Kilmantin Hill and take first left into Wicklow Gaol.

From Cork: Follow signs for Dublin, then Wicklow. Take the M8 northbound and then the M7 to Dublin. At the M50, head southbound until the N11 interchange (junction 17) and then follow the driving directions from Dublin (above).

From Belfast: Follow signs for Dublin, then Wicklow. Take the M1 southbound out of Belfast. At junction 8, head southbound on the A1, which turns into the N1/M1 across the border. Drive south until Dublin (junction 1) and take the full circuit of the M50 until the N11 interchange (junction 17). Follow driving directions from Dublin (above).

Kilmantin Hill, Wicklow Town, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

‘Your Daily Adventure’ is loved by visitors. Watch out for the Regional Editions on your travels. Each is packed with information on all there is to do, see and enjoy around Ireland. You can also view the online editions right here.

It is always advisable to check the opening dates and times of any attraction or business you intend to visit. Check their website or give them a call.

Wicklow's Jail Tour

A day tour of Wicklow's Historic Jail

During this tour you’ll visit Warwick’s Jail and experience an interactive journey through this ancient prison. This experience will bring history to life with holographic projections and visual recreations of over 200 years of Irish history. You’ll be guided around the museum and learn all about the prison life of the inmates imprisoned there during the 1800s.

What's included

• Free Carparking
• Café discount

What's Not Included

Accessibility.

• Service animals welcome
• Public transit links nearby

Health & Safety

• Suitable for all fitness levels

Restrictions

• Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult.

Languages spoken by guide

Audio-supported languages, additional information.

Bring your ticket with you to the attraction.

Be aware that operators may cancel for unforeseen reasons.

You must be 18 years or older, or be accompanied by an adult, to book.

Operated by Wicklow's Historic Gaol

Itinerary information

User ratings, frequently asked questions, how do i book a ticket.

Select a date and time.

Choose the number of tickets.

Click through to the next page and enter your personal details.

After entering your personal details, select your payment method and enter your payment details.

Once you’ve entered your payment details successfully, you'll be redirected to your ticket page where you can check the status and details of your reservations.

You'll receive a confirmation email once the reservation is confirmed with the attraction operator. This could take some time based on the supplier.

You can view your tickets in your confirmation email or the Booking and Trips section of your account.

When do I pay?

Booking.com collects payment on behalf of the attraction operator when you book your ticket.

How do digital tickets work?

Each digital ticket contains a unique code. This is usually a QR or numerical code, but could be something else and can be found on your ticket or the PDF sent to you.

If your digital ticket contains a barcode or QR code, show it to the staff at the attraction's entrance or ticket collection point for them to scan.

For those with numerical codes, show your ticket to staff for verification.

Can I cancel or modify my tickets?

You’ll need to check the policy on the specific ticket you book. Last-minute bookings might not have free cancellation available.

When will I get my free cancellation refund?

After you cancel, we'll issue a full refund immediately. Depending on your bank or payment provider, it can take 3–10 days to be refunded to your original payment method.

Tickets and prices

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Wicklow Town Guide: Things To Do, Food, Pubs + Accommodation

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: September 19, 2023

Located on Ireland’s East Coast, Wicklow Town is the county town of Wicklow.

Boasting a sheltered harbour, a heritage trail connecting many historic sites and some great restaurants and bars, Wicklow Town has plenty going for it.

Nearby, you’ll find superb beaches, forest walks and hikes in the Wicklow Mountain National Park and lots, lots more.

Below, you’ll discover everything from things to do in Wicklow Town to where to eat, sleep and sip. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about Wicklow Town

Click to enlarge

Although a visit to Wicklow Town is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Overlooking the Vartry Estuary and the Irish Sea, Wicklow Town is just east of the M11 between Newcastle and Arklow. It’s 60km south of Dublin and 24km from the Wicklow Mountains . 

2. A rich history

Wicklow Town has a rich and lengthy history. The discovery of a Bronze Age cooking pot indicates an early Celtic settlement. It was later affected by Viking raids and Norman influences. The Heritage Trail connects the main historic sites from St Patrick’s Landing to the remains of the Franciscan Friary and Black Castle .  

3. A great alternative base for Wicklow

Many visitors to Wicklow want to stay in one of the hotels near Glendalough , but Wicklow Town offers an excellent alternative. With coastal wetlands, a bustling harbour and many historic attractions, Wicklow Town is 30 minutes by car from Glendalough’s medieval monastic site and scenic walks in the Wicklow Mountains National Park.  

About Wicklow Town

Wicklow Town was founded by the Vikings around AD795, but it has evidence of much earlier Bronze Age settlement.

St Patrick arrived here as a bishop in 432AD and initially received a hostile reception. The ruins of 12th century Black Castle are testament to Norman influences and was still a stronghold during the 1614 Uprising.

The ruins of a Franciscan Friary on Main Street are the remains of the oldest surviving settlement in Wicklow.

The Town Hall and Wicklow Gaol (built in 1702) now house an interesting Heritage Centre. The gaol’s most famous incumbent was Billy Byrne, leader of the 1798 Rebellion, who was later executed. 

The natural harbour was further protected with the addition of the East Breakwater in 1880s followed by the North Groyne in 1909. 

Today, the thriving town is a popular tourist hub with its stony beach, Murrough Wetlands, Heritage Trails and several golf courses.  

Things to do in Wicklow Town and nearby

There are a handful of very worthwhile things to do in Wicklow Town and there are  endless  things to do near Wicklow Town.

Below, you’ll find cliff walks, prison tours, beaches, bays and an awful lot more.

1. Spend a rainy day at Wicklow Gaol

Photos by Brian Morrison via Ireland’s Content Pool

One of the most popular things to do in Wicklow Town is to take a tour of the historic Wicklow Gaol which provides a fascinating experience for visitors.

The building started in 1702 and continued until the 1840s. Now restored, tours of the gaol tell the story of the harsh life for prisoners such as Billy Byrne who was later executed.

Many offenders were transported to penal colonies in Australia. Explore the prison building and meet the holographic gaoler and other characters who will engage young visitors with stories of past times.

The Gaol also offers a scary Gates of Hell Virtual Reality Tour and a spooky Night Tour led by costumed actors.

2. And a fine one in Mount Usher Gardens

Photos via Ireland’s Content Pool

Wicklow is nicknamed the “Garden of Ireland” and the beautiful Mount Usher Gardens clearly show why.

Located on the banks of the Vartry River less than a 15-minute spin from the town, these privately owned gardens pack in over 5000 species of plants in 20 acres.

These spectacular gardens include an example of wild “Robinsonian” style gardens with water features, bridges and cascades.

Winding paths introduce a unique collection of flowers, shrubs, and exotic trees with colour in all seasons.

The Avoca Garden Cafe is the perfect setting for lunch and refreshments surrounded by floral beauty.

3. Step back in time at Black Castle

Photos courtesy Celtic Routes via Fáilte Ireland

A visit to Black Castle is a must as it reveals the town’s colourful past. Standing on a rocky promontory south of Wicklow Harbour overlooking the Irish Sea, the castle was built by Maurice FitzGerald following the arrival of the Normans in 1169.

It was constantly under attack from local Chieftains in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was burned three times and was besieged during the Uprising of 1641.

Now a ruin, Black Castle stands in landscaped grounds with ancient cannons on display. It offers amazing sea views from its elevated location.

4. See Wicklow Head Lighthouse

Another landmark, Wicklow Head Lighthouse is 5km southeast of Wicklow harbour on a headland near Dunbur. It’s warning light has been guarding the coastline since 1781.

Set in a peaceful landscape with superb views of the Irish Sea on three sides, the octagonal tower has metre-thick walls.

Now managed by Irish Landmark Trust, the rooms have been converted to rental accommodation for visitors.

However, with 109 steps to climb to the kitchen on the top floor, it’s not for the faint-hearted! Even though it is not open to the public, the lighthouse makes a great photo op and provides panoramic views.

5. Tackle the Heritage Trail

Photos by Dylan Vaughan via Fáilte Ireland

Another of the more popular things to do in Wicklow Gaol is to tackle the Wicklow Town Heritage Trail ( map here ).

This trail takes visitors on a self-guided tour of the historic sites with 25 interesting stops along the way.

You can join the Heritage Trail at any point and follow the storyboards as you visit St Patrick’s Church, the Friary ruins, Black Castle, Wicklow Gaol, the grave and Memorial of Capt Robert Halpin, the Old Schoolhouse, Post Office, Town Hall and Market Square.

Learn the story behind the “Doctor’s Steps” and Melancholy Lane, and track the development of the busy harbour. 

6. Or the Glen Cliff Walk

The Glen Beach Cliff Walk is arguably one of the best walks in Wicklow , but it comes with a warning – DO. NOT. APPROACH. THE SEALS!

The trail kicks-off just under 2 km south of Wicklow Town centre and it stretches for about 4 km in total.

This is a moderate walk that takes around 1.5 hours to complete. Along the way you’ll see beaches, coves, seals and some of the most under-appreciated coastline in the county.

If you’re looking for active things to do in Wicklow Town, this walk is hard to beat. Some other trails nearby include the Devil’s Glen and the various Glendalough walks .

7. Explore Avondale Forest Park

Photos by Coillte via Failte Ireland

Avondale Forest Park is 19km southwest of Wicklow Town and is the home of Avondale House where the history of Irish forestry began.

Explore the walled gardens and experience the Treetop Walk and Viewing Tower with incredible views across the Wicklow Mountains and Avonmore River Valley.

Longer walks can be enjoyed on three forest park trails. Try the strenuous 5.2km River Walk, the easy 2.6km Centenary Loop Walk or the moderate linear Railway Walk which is 2.1km each way.

Refreshments are available at the Seed Cafe. 

8. Visit one of many nearby beaches

There are plenty of stunning beaches in Wicklow and, luckily enough, there’s some mighty beaches near Wicklow Town worth checking out!

Magheramore Beach is 7km south of Wicklow and offers golden sand sandwiched between stunning blue waters and green fields.

Further south, Brittas Bay is a Blue Fag awarded beach with dune-backed golden sand that stretches for 5km. Head north 23km to Greystones Beach which has a 1km beach that’s a mixture of pebbles and sand.

At little further north, Silver Strand Beach is one of the best in Wicklow. Although smaller than some, it has fine golden sand (it’s just a pain to get to).

Places to stay in Wicklow Town and close by

Photos via Booking.com

There isn’t a huge amount of accommodation in Wicklow Town. There are, however, endless places to stay close by.

Note: if you book a stay through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. The Bridge Tavern

The Bridge Tavern offers modern accommodation in the heart of Wicklow Town with an onsite restaurant and bar. The beautifully furnished rooms have been awarded the Failte Ireland Green Shamrock reflecting the highest standard. They offer double and family rooms with ensuite bathrooms and breakfast is included. 

2. Tinakilly Country House Hotel

Set in 14 acres of landscaped gardens, Tinakilly Country House is one of our favourite hotels in Wicklow . The Victorian residence is filled with history and has 51 luxurious rooms and suites that feature antique furnishings and stunning views of the gardens or sea. 

3. Chester Beatty Inn

Situated in pretty Ashford, the Chester Beatty Inn and Restaurant began as a coaching inn in the early 1800s. Now a family-run hotel, it has smart rooms that are furnished for comfort with sleigh beds and ensuite bathrooms.

Pubs and restaurants in Wicklow Town

Photos via Phil Healy’s on FB

There’s no shortage of great pubs and restaurants in Wicklow Town, regardless of whether you want a pint by the fire after a long day or a slap up feed.

Below, you’ll find our favourite spots. If there’s somewhere we missed, shout in the comments!

1. Phil Healy’s pub

Oozing history from its rustic wood panelled walls, Phil Healy’s pub has been in business since 1861. It offers a warm welcome to families and visitors with quality food on the menu. It supports live sporting events and serves a full range of beer, wine, gin, whiskey and cocktails. 

2. Fitzpatrick’s Bar

For great drinks, live music and a friendly ambience, Fitzpatrick’s Bar is the hub of entertainment in the heart of Wicklow Town. They have a family-run music lounge with sing-song nights and a sports bar so you won’t miss a match.

3. The Brass Fox Wicklow

The award-winning Brass Fox in Wicklow is a traditional Irish pub with charming interior decor. This seaside pub serves healthy home-made food throughout the day including breakfast, salads, sandwiches, steak, fish and pasta dishes. They also do signature cocktails and fine spirits in the Lounge Bar.  

4. The Bridge Tavern

The upscale Bridge Tavern has a traditional bar, snug and beautiful riverside lounge for relaxing and enjoying live music. The gastropub restaurant serves an exciting menu from waffles and granola to rib-eye steak and seafood. Don’t miss their Sunday Lunch deemed “Best Roast on the East Coast”!

5. La Locandina

This traditional Italian pizzeria and takeaway has a full menu of dishes to be enjoyed in your own home or digs. They cover everything from antipasti starters and salads to pizza, pasta and desserts. Their lasagna with pork and beef ragu is delicious while the Pizza Contadina has a tasty Gorgonzola, pear and walnut topping. 

6. Blue Seafood & Bistro Restaurant

The Blue Seafood Restaurant and Bistro is a trendy upscale eatery overlooking Wicklow Harbour. It serves the freshest seafood as well as locally sourced meats and produce. Their seasonal menu includes tempura battered haddock and chips with pea puree, Slaney Valley shoulder of lamb with ratatouille and how about Baked Alaska for dessert!

FAQs about visiting Wicklow Town

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Are there many things to do in Wicklow Town?’ to ‘Is it worth visiting?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Wicklow Town?

The best things to do in Wicklow Town are to take a tour of Wicklow Gaol, tackle the Heritage Trail and ramble along the Glen Beach Cliff Walk.

Is Wicklow Town worth a visit?

Wicklow Town often gets overshadowed by the countless areas of natural beauty that the county is famous for. However, thanks to the gaol, the beaches and the cliff walk, the town is well worth a visit in itself.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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