A Quick Guide to Arklow

Arklow is located on the coast of Co Wicklow, where the Avoca River flows into the sea. The town was founded in the 9th century by the Vikings. Its name derives from "Arknell's Low", Arknell being a viking name and a "Low" an area of land.

Once primarily a local market town, to-day Arklow is a busy and growing commuter town, with many residents travelling daily to work in Dublin.

There is not much to detain visitors long in Arklow, though the small Maritime Museum which tells the story of the towns long fishing and maritime tradition, may be of interest to some. It also has an interesting exhibit about the local lifeboat and those who man it - Arklow was the first place in Ireland to have a lifeboat service.

Things to do and see

A selection of places and activities that are in Arklow or that can be visited while using Arklow as a base. For more activities that may be in reach see our Area Guides.

Glendalough
Glendalough in Co Wicklow with its famous round tower was one of the most important Christian monastic settlements in Europe. It is a mystical and beautiful place to visit.

Mount Usher Gardens
In the 'Garden of Ireland', Co Wicklow, Mount Usher is a place of careful but informal planting in keeping with the surrounding countryside.

Killruddery House and Gardens
A 17th century garden little changed in 3 centuries, the gardens at Kilruddary House are of special interest to gargening historians.

Festival and Events

Wicklow Gardens Festival Gardening | Date: May - August

Synge Summer School Summer School | Date: June 29th - July 5th

Greystones Arts Festival Arts Festival | Date: August 3rd - 6th

Tour Itineraries

Some tour itineraries which explore in or include Co Wicklow:

Three Days Around Dublin
A short trip based in Dublin, seeing a little of the countryside as well as the capital.

One Day Tour of Wicklow
A one day tour of Wicklow which includes visits to gardens and historic sites, including Glendalough, and well as some of the most scenic locations in Ireland.