Glendalough Monastic Site and Visitor Centre

Wicklow Check the official website Suits all ages

Family practicalities

  • Pram-friendly (likely)
  • Baby changing
  • Step-free access
  • Toilets

Explore the remains of a monastic city, including a round tower and medieval churches, in a beautiful valley. Learn about St Kevin at the interpretive centre and walk around the two lakes.

In a stunning glaciated valley in County Wicklow, in the sixth century, one of Ireland’s most revered saints founded a monastery. The foundation of St Kevin at Glendalough became one of the most famous religious centres in Europe. The remains of this ‘Monastic City’, which are dotted across the glen, include a superb round tower, numerous medieval stone churches and some decorated crosses. Of particular note is St Kevin’s Bed, a small man-made cave in the cliff face above the Upper Lake. It is said that St Kevin lived and prayed there, but it may actually be a prehistoric burial place that far predates him. Learn all about this hallowed place in the fine interpretive centre before exploring the site for yourself. If you do, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the two lakes and a uniquely spiritual atmosphere.

The details

Address
Glendalough Visitor Centre, Derrybawn, Glendalough, County Wicklow, Ireland, Wicklow
Cost
Check the official website
Indoors or out
Both indoors and out
Booking
Check the official website
Listed by
Heritage Ireland (OPW)
  • Religious sites
  • Baby Changing
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Bike Trail
  • Bookshop
  • Brochure
  • Car park
  • Card Accepted
  • Exhibition
  • Guided tours
  • Interpretive exhibit
  • Museum