Avondale House and Forest Park

Avondale House and Forest Park
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About

Ireland's first treetop walkway and 38-metre viewing tower, set in 500 acres of historic woodland that was the birthplace of Irish forestry and Charles Stewart Parnell.

Things to Do

Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower

Walk along a fully accessible boardwalk that rises gently through the forest canopy — at one point over 23 metres above the ground. The walk ends at a stunning 38-metre spiral viewing tower with 360° panoramic views over the Vale of Avoca and the Wicklow Mountains. Allow 1–2 hours for the full experience.

Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower

Giant Spiral Slide

After reaching the top of the viewing tower, take the thrilling way down: a 90-metre spiral slide that winds inside the tower. It costs €2 per go, payable at the slide, and is subject to weather — it closes in wet or humid conditions.

Giant Spiral Slide

Avondale House Guided Tour

Step inside the restored Georgian home of the Parnell family, where Charles Stewart Parnell was born in 1846. The 45–60 minute guided tour takes you through the ground-floor rooms, bringing to life 19th-century estate life. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Max 12 people per tour.

Avondale House Guided Tour

Forest Trails & Walking Routes

Explore over 500 acres of mature woodland on marked trails ranging from the easy, buggy-friendly 'Below the Trees' loop to the challenging River Walk with its steep climbs and Avonmore River views. Don't miss 'To the Cairn' walk, which passes experimental tree plots and a grove of Giant Redwoods. A family cycle trail is also available.

Forest Trails & Walking Routes

Walled Garden & Playground

A relaxing contemporary walled garden beside the Seed Café, with an adventurous children's playground nearby. Perfect for families to unwind while little ones play.

Walled Garden & Playground

Coillte Pavilion

Learn about Ireland's forestry past, present and future through interactive exhibits in the state-of-the-art visitor centre. Discover how Avondale became the birthplace of Irish forestry and the site of the pioneering 'Great Tree Experiment'.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower: open year-round, hours vary seasonally. July–August: daily 10am–6pm (last entry), closed by 7pm. Forest Park & car park: April–September 6am–10pm, October–March 8am–5pm (14 Nov – 31 Jan: 8am–10pm). Treetop Night Lights runs from 14 November 2026 — check booking page for times.
  • Admission: Treetop Walk: adult €18, child (4–17) €15, under-3s free, family (2+3) €46. Avondale House tour: adult €16, child €13. Combination ticket: adult €30.60, family (2+3) €79.20. Annual passes available.
  • Parking: €6 per vehicle, payable by contactless at entry. Accessible and age-friendly parking bays, coach bays, and EV charging stations available. Annual Coillte car park pass available separately for €50.
  • Food: The Seed Café serves seasonal, locally sourced Wicklow fare: homemade soups, quiches, salads, curries, freshly prepared bagels, wraps, baguettes, and sweet treats. Outdoor dining terrace overlooks the Walled Garden and playground. Group set menu available on request.

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