Rathdrum: River Views, Trails and History

Rathdrum sits high on the western side of the Avonmore Valley. From here, you can enjoy striking views of the River Avonmore as it flows through the Vale of Clara. The landscape, local history and range of trail experiences give the destination several different facets: you can plan your stay around the riverside scenery, include guided experiences or explore walking routes and train connections.

Mazes, Farm Animals and Guided Tours

Greenan Maze combines winding mazes with traditional farm animals, three farm museums and nature trails. There is something for a range of interests, rather than just one activity: if you enjoy puzzles and exploring paths, you can visit the mazes; if you are interested in farm life, you can focus on the animals and museums. The nature trails offer another way to explore the site.

Guided tours are also available at Greenan Maze. They combine stories and historical content with entertainment and animal feeding. This makes the experience different from a visit where you explore the mazes, museums or nature trails on your own. Which option best suits your outing depends on whether you prefer to explore independently or follow a guided tour with storytelling.

Walking Trails and a Bridge over the Avonmore

The Samuel Hayes Suspension Bridge crosses the River Avonmore and connects the path near Hidden Valley Park with Rathdrum. It opened in June 2021, providing a direct crossing between the path near Hidden Valley Park and the town. The Avonmore Way, in turn, connects Rathdrum with Glendalough and the Wicklow Way. If walking trails are a focus of your trip, you can take this connection into account when planning.

The Jubilee Loop starts at the car park of the Church of Ss. Mary and Michael in Rathdrum. There you will find an information board and further details about the walk. The Jubilee Loop and the Avonmore Way are two different walking trails.

Places Associated with Parnell and Cultural History

Rathdrum was the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell. The Parnell National Memorial Park is also in the town. Avondale House and Forest Park, a woodland park covering over 500 acres, lies near Rathdrum. The estate was Parnell’s birthplace and home. The town’s history and the nearby estate therefore offer different points of interest if you are interested in learning about his life.

Getting Here and Choosing Where to Stay

From Rathdrum station, trains run north, including to Wicklow Town, Greystones, Bray and Dublin, and south, including to Wexford and Rosslare Ferry Port. This direction of rail services may be an important consideration when planning your trip. Check the right connection for your specific journey if you want to travel by train to Rathdrum or include other stops.

Rathdrum offers several clearly distinct themes, rather than just one reason to visit. Decide which ones appeal most to your travel group.

More town pages: Shillelagh, Bray, Blessington, Greystones, Dunlavin, Brittas Bay, Enniskerry and Ballinalea.

For the main travel overview: County Wicklow.