Avondale Forest Park
Note: FOR SUMMER WEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS ALL VISITORS SHOULD BOOK IN ADVANCE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. ADVANCE BOOKING NOT REQUIRED FOR ANNUAL PASS HOLDERS. For all details and to pre-book, please go to this link: Beyond The Trees Avondale
Journey beyond the trees at Avondale Forest Park, a special place where visionary and inspirational people have sown the seeds of Ireland’s future and where unique and memorable experiences are created.
Uncover the story of Avondale House, where Irish forestry began and where one of Ireland’s greatest statemen, Charles Stewart Parnell, was born. Enjoy forest park trails or take a leisurely stroll through the walled gardens. Explore the Coillte Pavilion and learn about the essential role forests play in all our futures, or just take some time out in the Seed Café. There’s something for everyone at Avondale, and we can’t wait to see you.
More details may be found at the Beyond the Trees Avondale Website here
Things to do
The focal point of the re-developed Avondale Forest Park is the incredible Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower. The views from within and above the forest are breathtaking, looking out widely over the Wicklow mountains, Avonmore river valley and the Vale of Avoca. You can take the slide for a fantastic descent from the top of the Tower!
Discover the wider Forest Park on the trails throughout:
The River Walk: (5.2kms, 2 hours, Strenuous) The longest and hardest walk at Avondale with some steep descents and climbs, therefore strong footwear is recommended.
Walking alongside the river you pass under two railway bridges, still used today. There are magnificent river views and further up the hill you can see Lovers Lookout.
Centenary Trail: This is a looped walk: (2.6kms, 1 hour, Easy)
On the Centenary Trail you will meet trees from many corners of the world that have become established in the Irish climate and landscape. The trail guides you through a showcase of tree species found on the estate. Due to the re-development the walk detours slightly back to the start.
Railway Walk: This is a linear walk: (2.1kms, 1 hour each way, Moderate)
This is a linear walk from Rathdrum railway station through the woods to Avondale House, and could have been used by Parnell on his frequent journeys. It is often used by locals as a looped walk starting in Rathdrum, down into the Park and back along the footpath beside the road back into Rathdrum.
Seed Café: Fresh and delicious local food, prepared on site every day
Playground:
The new playground is now located in the walled garden.
Picnic Site:
There are picnic tables located throughout the Forest Park.
Don’t miss our hidden gem
The Tower is located in the huge stand of Eucalyptus!
Visitors Facilities on site
The new playground is now located in the walled garden.
Picnic tables beside the car-park and opposite the Tower on the Great Ride
Public Toilets are available at the Seed Café. Temporary toilets are located in each car-park for the Summer season. A Changing Places room is located in the courtyard. Please request access at reception.
Car Parking: 600 spaces
Car Park Opens: 7.00am April to September and 8.00am (October to March)
Car Park Closes: 10.00pm April to September and 5.00pm (October to March)
The car park has 25 Disabled Parking and 22 Age Friendly car parking spaces, along with 6 Electric Vehicle Charging points.
You can buy your annual car-parking pass for €50 at this link:
Coillte Pass