Overview
Woodenbridge sits in the heart of County Wicklow, cradled by the confluence of the Avoca, Aughrim and Goldmine rivers. The village straddles the R747 and R752, with the stone “Wooden Bridge” spanning the Aughrim River – a reminder of the settlement’s centuries‑old name, Garrynagowlan. Surrounded by rolling wooded slopes, the area is a natural playground for walkers, cyclists and golfers, while the nearby towns of Arklow and Avoca provide convenient services.
History
The settlement’s earliest recorded name was Garnagowlan, reflecting the townland it occupies. In 1608 the Woodenbridge Hotel was founded, making it one of Ireland’s oldest licensed inns. The hotel welcomed future Taoiseach Éamon de Valera and his wife on their 1910 honeymoon, and it later hosted the Redmond family’s historic speech on 24 September 1914, when John Redmond urged Irish Volunteers to enlist in the British Army – a moment that split the Irish nationalist movement.
Railway history also marks the village. Woodenbridge railway station opened on 22 May 1865, linking the Dublin‑Rosslare line with the Shillelagh branch that followed the Aughrim River. Passenger services ceased on 30 March 1964, and the line was fully lifted by 1953. The remnants of the platform and bridge still frame the golf course, and a portion of the disused track has been repurposed as the “Tinahely Railway Walk”, a gentle trail for walkers and cyclists.
A historic gate lodge, dating from the early 20th century, stands near the hotel. Although privately owned and not open to the public, its distinctive rounded entrance and period details add to the village’s architectural character.
What to See & Do
Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge
The Woodenbridge Hotel & Lodge blends historic ambience with modern comforts. Guest rooms range from classic doubles to Vale‑View Balcony rooms that overlook the Vale of Avoca. The hotel offers free on‑site parking, complimentary Wi‑Fi, and a selection of accessible rooms (one in the hotel, two in the lodge). Breakfast is served in The Bistro from 07:00‑10:00 on weekdays and 07:00‑10:30 at weekends; lunch and dinner run from 12:30‑21:00 daily. The Smokehouse restaurant operates seasonally from May to September, providing a relaxed outdoor BBQ setting. Live music fills the Bistro on weekend evenings, and the Goldmines Bistro pays homage to the 1795 Wicklow gold rush.
Woodenbridge Golf Club
Founded in 1884, Woodenbridge Golf Club is a top‑ranked parkland course set in a “spectacularly wooded valley”. Designed by Patrick Merrigan, the 18‑hole, par‑71 layout stretches 6,329 yd (back tees) and weaves between two rivers, demanding both accuracy and imagination. Highlights include the short par‑three 8th, played over the river to a perched green, and the dramatic par‑five 18th, which requires a long drive across the widest river stretch. The modern clubhouse offers a restaurant, pro shop and free Wi‑Fi. Golfers can arrange bespoke golf‑break packages through the hotel’s concierge (phone 0402‑35146).
Walking & Nearby Attractions
The village is a gateway to Wicklow’s celebrated outdoor attractions. The “Wicklow Walks” network threads through the Vale of Avoca, offering gentle valley routes and more challenging hill climbs. The disused railway line provides a flat, scenic trail for walkers and cyclists, while the nearby Tinahely Railway Walk is ideal for families.
Nearby attractions you can combine with a day in Woodenbridge
- Avondale Forest Park & House – a 5 km walk from the village, featuring woodland trails, a historic house and the popular “Beyond The Trees” adventure park.
Avondale Forest Park, Beyond the Trees, Co Wicklow Courtesy Failte Ireland - Powerscourt Waterfall – Ireland’s highest waterfall, a short 15‑minute drive north, perfect for a quick photo stop.
Tourism Ireland - Russborough House & Parklands in Blessington – an 18th‑century mansion with impressive art collections and extensive grounds (see Blessington).
Courtesy of Chris Hill, Failte Ireland - Mount Usher Gardens along the River Vartry – 22 acre formal garden renowned for its rhododendrons and water features.
- Avoca Handweavers – Ireland’s oldest working weaving mill, offering tours and a shop.
- Brittas Bay – a blue‑flag beach on the east coast, about 20 km east of Woodenbridge, ideal for a seaside walk or a dip in the sea.
Brittas Bay, Co Wicklow Courtesy Celtic Routes - Wicklow Mountains National Park – offering rugged mountain trails and panoramic views, reachable via the R747 in under 30 minutes.
Courtesy Chris Spierin, Fáilte Ireland/Tourism Ireland
Fishing is permitted on the Aughrim, Avoca and Goldmine rivers; anglers should obtain a local fishing licence from the Irish Angling Association.
Events & Commemorations
Woodenbridge is home to the Woodenbridge World War One Memorial Park, situated on the banks of the Aughrim River. The park was erected to honour the 1,192 men from County Wicklow who lost their lives in the Great War. Each year a remembrance ceremony is held, most recently on 3 November 2019, attended by local dignitaries, representatives of the Royal British Legion, the RAF Association and diplomatic corps. The event includes wreath‑laying, a short talk on the village’s wartime history and a moment of silence. Visitors are welcome to explore the modest memorial and the surrounding riverside walk.
Getting there by public transport
Woodenbridge lies 10 km south of Arklow on the R747. Bus Éireann route 133 serves the village four times daily on weekdays and twice on Sundays, linking it to Arklow, Avoca, Rathdrum, Wicklow and Dublin. The nearest train station is Arklow; a pre‑booked taxi or the TFI Local Link routes 800/183 can complete the final leg. Dublin Airport is about 70 km north, reachable via the M11.
Practical Information
Accommodation – Check‑in after 16:00, check‑out 12:00. Early check‑in/late check‑out available for a small charge. Free on‑site parking.
Dining – Bistro breakfast 07:00‑10:00 (Mon‑Fri) / 07:00‑10:30 (Sat‑Sun). Lunch & dinner 12:30‑21:00 daily. Smokehouse operates May‑September, evenings only.
Golf – Pro shop open 08:00‑16:00 (winter schedule). Phone 0402 35202 for tee‑times.
Accessibility – Wheelchair‑accessible rooms (one in the hotel, two in the lodge). Contact the hotel in advance.
Admission – The village, bridge and surrounding walks are free. Golf fees and restaurant charges vary; inquire directly.
Woodenbridge may be small, but its blend of history, sport and natural beauty makes it an ideal base for a relaxed Wicklow escape.