My Top 10 Favorite Spots in Wicklow Town

Ever since our son was born, I've dreamed of bringing him "back" to County Wicklow where the Nolan family has deep roots. My great-grandfather was born and raised in idyllic Glenmalure and our family has lived near the Collalingo Waterfall for generations. Besides being my family's original hometown, the Glenmalure Forest also holds a fascinating secret: it was here that the renowned local figure, Michael Dwyer, famously eluded capture by the British.

It was incredible to see my son play in the shadows of the British Barracks, which are located just a few hundred yards from the family home. We were blessed to enjoy tea time with my cousins who still own the home today!

My mom, son and I started our adventure in Wicklow Town, affectionately known as the "Gateway to the Garden of Ireland," which truly lives up to its name. The Irish meaning is Cill Mhantáin or "Church of the Toothless One" in honor of one of St. Patrick's very first followers, Mhantáin. Our recent trip with my lively toddler and wonderful mom was a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and delightful local treats.

Taking a morning stroll in Wicklow Town with my toddler and mom was a dream come true!

Obviously, I highly recommend a visit to this charming and vibrant coastal town, here are some of our absolute favorite things to do:

1. Coffee & Charm at Wicklow Inspired Cafe:

Our mornings in Wicklow Town always started with a visit to see Ashley at the Wicklow Inspired Cafe. This gem offers excellent coffee and a lovely selection of treats. The staff are incredibly friendly and the location is perfect – grab your coffee and take a leisurely stroll down towards the harbour. It’s the ideal way to kickstart a day of exploration, especially with a little one in tow! Of course, we purchased a "Wicklow Inspired" beanie and travel mug to remember our special time here. Pop in for an espresso after your intense workout at neighboring Wicklow Strength & Fitness. Check them out on Instagram.

2. Toddler Time at Murrough Playground:

A definite highlight for my toddler (and a welcome run around for us grown-ups!) was the Murrough Playground. This fantastic spot boasts stunning ocean views, a variety of play equipment, including slides, swings, a zip line, and a massive sandpit. It's clean, well-maintained, and offers plenty of space for kids to burn off energy while you enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. The pirate ship feature was a big hit, and its proximity to the beach meant we could easily transition from playground fun to a lively walk along the water.

3. Stepping Back in Time at Wicklow Gaol:

For a fascinating and a little bit eerie dive into history, we visited the Wicklow Gaol. Although, we didn't get to go inside (toddler in tow), this atmospheric jail museum offers an interactive tour that truly brings the stories of its past inmates to life. From the harsh realities of 18th-century prison life to the tales of the 1798 Rebellion participants, it's a thought-provoking experience.

4. A Historical Chat with Catherine Wright at Wicklow Library:

One of the most enriching experiences was meeting with local historian Catherine Wright at the Wicklow Library. Catherine, who is also the County Archivist, is a wealth of knowledge about Wicklow's rich history and genealogy. She shared captivating insights that truly brought the county's past to life for us. If you're keen on delving deeper into the local heritage, I highly recommend reaching out to the Wicklow Family History Centre at the library to arrange a chat with her. We even found out that local legend Michael Dwyer, leader of the 1798 Wicklow Rebellion, is part of my family tree! Beyond its massive archive collection, the Wicklow Library itself is a bright and inspiring place to visit. While Catherine and I dove into the past, my toddler and my mom enjoyed exploring the large children's book collection.

5. Seafood Supper at The Brass Fox:

After a day of exploring, a delicious meal was in order. The Brass Fox, a charming and quirky traditional Irish pub, did not disappoint. Their fish and chips were absolutely superb – fresh, perfectly cooked, and a true taste of the coast. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming thanks to our kind server Janet, and they even have a kids' menu called "Cubs Club", making it a great option for families. My son loved coloring his little fox munching on fries!

6. Breakfast Bliss at The Bridge Tavern:

You will be dreaming about their lemon scones! For a hearty and delicious start to another day happy day in Wicklow Town, we enjoyed complimentary breakfast at The Bridge Tavern where we stayed for 3 nights. The Bridge Tavern has been welcoming wearing travelers since the 1800s and pioneering Captain Robert Halpin was born here in 1836.The quality of the food was excellent, and the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive. It's a beautifully renovated spot with a warm and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect place to fuel up before more adventures. We were so grateful for the hospitality, including details like nightly safekeeping of my son's buggy in the pub storeroom.

7. Exploring the Black Castle:

No trip to Wicklow Town is complete without a visit to the Black Castle dating back to the Norman Invasion of the 1100s. These evocative ruins, perched dramatically on the coastline, offer a tangible link to Wicklow's ancient past. It's an easy walk from the town center and provides stunning views of the Irish Sea. While my toddler enjoyed running around the grassy areas, my mom and I were captivated by the history and the panoramic scenery. We somehow managed to make it over to the ruins with a super active toddler in tow!

Bring your morning coffee from Wicklow Inspired Cafe and take in the breathtaking views!

8. Seaside Strolls along the Waterfront:

The Wicklow waterfront is a beautiful area for leisurely strolls. We loved watching the boats in the harbour, feeling the sea breeze, and simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere. There's a real sense of peace and tranquility here, offering a perfect contrast to some of the more active explorations.

Other Wicklow Town Highlights:

Beyond our absolute favorites, Wicklow Town offers even more to discover:

• Glen Beach Cliff Walk: If you have time and energy (and a carrier for the toddler!), consider tackling a portion of this scenic walk. It offers spectacular views of the coastline.

• Byrne's Giftware and Furniture: Located on the main street, it's a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and support local artisans. I purchased a beautiful tiny silver Celtic cross, which I gave to my son on the last night of our stay in Wicklow Town.

• Bridge Street Books: If you're a book lover like me, pop into this award-winning independent bookshop. There are so many treasures here! I brought home a few niche titles about County Wicklow.

Wicklow Town truly offers something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun and relaxing getaway. I've got to say that it was my favorite town I've ever visited on four trips to Ireland. Our trip was filled with cherished memories, and we can't wait to return to this charming corner of Ireland!