VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Wicklow’s Beyond the Trees Avondale

Betyond the Tress experience, Avondale, April 6 2023

Beyond the Trees Avondale, located in Avondale Forest Park, Rathdrum, County Wicklow, is a world-class visitor destination that opened in July 2022. Set within a 500-acre estate, this attraction combines a unique treetop walk, historical significance, and family-friendly activities, all steeped in the legacy of Irish forestry and the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, a prominent Irish statesman. Managed by Coillte, Fáilte Ireland, and EAK Ireland, it emphasizes sustainability and accessibility, offering a blend of nature, history, and adventure

Ireland’s first fully accessible 1.4km timber walkway, rising up to 38 meters above the forest floor, allows visitors to stroll through the canopy of Avondale’s mature woodland. The gentle incline ensures accessibility for wheelchairs, prams, and buggies, with interactive stations along the route providing educational insights into the forest ecosystem and Avondale’s history. The walk takes 25–35 minutes, depending on pace, and offers tranquil views of the Wicklow Mountains, Vale of Avoca, and Avonmore River.

Viewing Tower: At the walkway’s culmination, a 38-meter-high tower provides 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can ascend the spiral boardwalk (accessible) and, for an optional €2 supplement, descend via Ireland’s longest slide (90 meters), a thrilling experience for all ages (under-6s must be accompanied by an adult; slide closed in wet or humid weather for safety). The tower takes about 35 minutes to explore.
Both the walkway and tower are designed for universal access, with rest points and a gentle slope, making them suitable for all mobility levels.

Avondale House Guided Tours:

The 18th-century Avondale House, designed by James Wyatt and birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, offers guided tours (30-minute or 1-hour options, maximum 12 people per tour).
These tours delve into the Parnell family’s history, including Charles’s love story with Katharine O’Shea (highlighted by a ring he crafted from gold panned in local streams).
Exhibits include quirky details, such as Parnell practicing speeches from the balcony. The house, restored in 2022, is a highlight for history enthusiasts, showcasing its role as the cradle of Irish forestry, initiated by Samuel Hayes in the 1800s.
Tours are available daily, and pre-booking is recommended, especially for weekends and bank holidays.

Coillte Pavilion:

A complimentary self-guided exhibit in the state-of-the-art visitor centre, the Coillte Pavilion educates visitors on the past, present, and future of Irish forestry.
Interactive displays cover themes like forestry for climate, nature, wood, and people, emphasizing Coillte’s sustainability efforts and climate action. This is particularly engaging for school groups, transition year (TY) students, and eco-conscious visitors.
Seed Café: Located with views of the walled garden, the Seed Café offers a contemporary menu using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, some grown in the estate’s walled garden. Expect dishes like sandwiches, salads, and desserts, paired with Brady’s Coffee, roasted in nearby Wicklow town. The café has a reserved area for pre-booked groups and is praised for its cozy ambiance, though some visitors note prices reflect the premium experience. It’s an ideal spot to relax post-exploration.

Walled Garden and Playground:

The rejuvenated walled garden, restored as part of the 2022 redevelopment, features wildflowers thriving in the sun-warmed brick enclosure. It’s a serene spot for a leisurely stroll, with a sensory garden in the courtyard adding to the experience.
An adventurous children’s playground, located within the walled garden, includes treehouses and climbing structures, keeping kids entertained while parents relax nearby. The playground is secure and designed for active outdoor play.

Forest Trails and Orienteering:

Avondale Forest Park offers several marked trails, free to explore, catering to walkers and cyclists:
River Walk, Pine Walk, Sli na Slainte, Cairn Walk, Centenary Walk, Railway Walk: Varying from 2km moderate walks (1–2 hours), these trails showcase the estate’s diverse trees, including redwoods from the Great Tree Experiment, a global collection of species.
Three Orienteering Courses: Maps are downloadable online, offering fun navigation challenges for families and groups.
The 500-acre park, a historic hub of Irish forestry since its acquisition by the government in 1904, is a haven for nature lovers, with trails suitable for all fitness levels.

Visitor Centre and Retail:

The modern visitor centre provides orientation spaces, restrooms, and a gift shop with local crafts, souvenirs, and forestry-themed items. Electric vehicle charging stations and ample parking (including disabled and age-friendly spaces) enhance convenience.
The centre is designed for universal access, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors.
Atmosphere and Historical Context: Beyond the Trees Avondale is celebrated for its blend of history, nature, and adventure, set in a lush, 500-acre estate dubbed the “cradle of Irish forestry.” The legacy of Samuel Hayes, who planted thousands of trees in the 1800s, and Charles Stewart Parnell, born in Avondale House in 1846, adds depth. Visitors describe it as a “whimsical adventure” with breathtaking views and a peaceful, immersive forest experience.
The attraction’s sustainability focus, including a low carbon footprint and eco-friendly practices, resonates with environmentally conscious visitors.
Practicalities: Avondale Forest Park, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow (A67 P303), 45 minutes south of Dublin, 5 minutes from Rathdrum, 20 minutes from Arklow, and 25 minutes from Wicklow Town. Accessible by car, bus (e.g., Route 4/4A from Carlow, 45 minutes), or a 2km walk from Rathdrum village (train/bus accessible).
Open year-round, with seasonal hours (e.g., 9:30 AM–6:00 PM in summer, shorter in winter). Check www.beyondthetreesavondale.com for exact times.
Admission: Tickets are approximately €30 per person for the Treetop Walk and Viewing Tower (slide €2 extra), with a Saver ticket option including an annual pass for the walk, house tour, and other attractions. Pre-booking is required for weekends and bank holidays, especially in summer. Prices are considered steep by some, but the experience is widely praised.
The entire site, including the walk, tower, and house tours, is wheelchair and buggy accessible. Assistance dogs are permitted, but other pets are not allowed on the treetop walk or tower.
Group Visits: Caters to school tours, TY groups, language schools, and international groups, with a recommended 3-hour visit to fully explore. Pre-booked lunches and picnic areas are available.

Nearby Attractions:

Wicklow Mountains National Park (20,000 hectares, 20 minutes): Scenic trails and wildlife.
Glendalough (30 minutes): Monastic site and lakes with hiking trails.
Killruddery House & Gardens (near Bray, 40 minutes): Historic estate with gardens.
Arklow and Wicklow Town: Nearby for dining and post-visit pints.

New Features

Running from November to January, the “Treetop Night Lights” experience transforms the 1.4km treetop walkway into a magical nighttime spectacle with dazzling light displays.
This winter event, distinct from typical Christmas attractions, celebrates the forest canopy with immersive illuminations, creating a “winter wonderland” effect.
The slide is unavailable during this event for safety reasons. Visitors can expect a unique after-dark adventure, ideal for families and photography enthusiasts, with bookings recommended via www.beyondthetreesavondale.com.
Beyond the Trees Avondale was a finalist in the 2024 Effie Awards Ireland for marketing effectiveness and was shortlisted for three All Ireland Marketing Awards in 2024, reflecting its growing prominence.
The attraction’s commitment to sustainable tourism, emphasized since its 2022 opening, will continue with measures to reduce its carbon footprint. This includes ongoing improvements to visitor touchpoints, such as eco-friendly materials in the visitor centre and locally sourced café ingredients. The Coillte Pavilion may introduce new exhibits on sustainable forestry practices, aligning with global climate goals.
Following the success of the 2024 Wicklow Tourism & Networking Event hosted at Avondale (attended by over 100 industry professionals), 2025 will see similar events or workshops, including new guided tour themes or interactive activities at the Coillte Pavilion.
Improved Group Facilities: The site’s popularity for school and group tours (e.g., TY groups, international visitors) suggests 2025 will see enhanced group offerings, such as tailored educational programmes or expanded picnic areas. The reserved group area in the Seed Café and pre-booked lunch options will continue to cater to these visitors.
Time and Cost: Plan for a 3-hour visit to cover the Treetop Walk (25–35 minutes), Viewing Tower (35 minutes), Avondale House tour (30–60 minutes), and café/garden time. Tickets are ~€30 per person (slide €2 extra), with a Saver ticket for annual access. Pre-book online for weekends and bank holidays. Bring a picnic to save on café costs, though the Seed Café’s local fare is a treat.
Best Times to Visit: Summer (June–August) for warm weather and full bloom, or November–January for Treetop Night Lights (book early). Spring and autumn offer quieter visits with vibrant foliage. Check seasonal hours on www.beyondthetreesavondale.com.
What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and weather-appropriate clothing (Ireland’s weather is unpredictable). Bring a camera for the tower views and cash for the slide (€2). No dogs are allowed on the walk or tower, except assistance dogs.
Who It’s For: Ideal for families (playground, slide), what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious” (Parnell house tours), nature lovers (trails, pavilion), and photographers (scenic views). The accessible design suits all ages and abilities, though the slide may thrill older kids and adults most.
Tips: Book Treetop Night Lights early for January 2026. Arrive early to avoid slide queues and secure parking (busy in summer). Combine with Glendalough or Wicklow Mountains for a full day. Check trail maps online for orienteering or cycling routes.

Recommendations

Start at the Visitor Centre: Explore the Coillte Pavilion’s forestry exhibits before the Treetop Walk for context. Pre-book house tours for a seamless visit.
Experience Treetop Night Lights: If visiting in January, don’t miss this magical after-dark event, but note the slide is closed. A new theme wil be introduced in 2026.
Enjoy the Café: Try seasonal dishes at the Seed Café, but consider a picnic for value. The walled garden is recommended for relaxing.
Explore Trails: The River Walk or Railway Walk (2km each) is great for a short, scenic add-on. Download orienteering maps for extra fun.
Contact +353 404 46111 or enquiry@beyondthetreesavondale.com for bookings.

Beyond the Trees Avondale is a standout attraction in Ireland’s Ancient East, blending adventure, history, and sustainability. www.beyondthetreesavondale.com.