Wicklow Town Heritage Trail

About this tour

Stroll through Wicklow's fascinating past with the Wicklow Town Heritage Trail. Enjoy this free guided tour every Saturday at 11:00. The tour commences on Easter Saturday and ends on the last Saturday in September. It departs from outside the Wicklow Tourist Information Centre in Fitzwilliam Square.

Wicklow Town Heritage Trail explores the impressive town's history from the arrival of St Patrick and his monks at Travilahawk Beach in 432 until the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. The last 1500 years has seen the development of Wicklow Town from being a tiny settlement in Christian times to the historical town that it is today with its picturesque 19th century harbour. Learn about the Normans, whose arrival in the late 12th century saw the construction of the Black Castle. Hear about the conflict between the Anglo Normans and the native Wicklow clans which led to the destruction of the castle in 1645. Following the Penal Laws, Wicklow Gaol was constructed and was an overcrowded place in the aftermath of the 1798 Rebellion and the Great Famine. The 19th century saw a huge growth in the development of the Wicklow Town that exists today. During this time Wicklow’s most famous son, Captain Robert Halpin, became famous worldwide for his part in laying the first transatlantic telegraph cable in 1866. Wicklow Town welcomes locals and visitors alike to spend a few hours rambling through its narrow streets, historical sites and appreciating the beauty of the coastline. Visit a variety of family owned shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs as you follow along on the Wicklow Town Heritage Trail.