Castle House is situated on the hillside west of Avoca village, overlooking the Meetings of the Waters, within a large, wooded demesne. It was built in 1811 on the site of an earlier house called Cronebane Lodge which belonged to the director of the Avoca Copper Mines. The Castle was built in part Gothic Romantic Castle style and part in Abbey style by Sir Richard Morrison for Lt. Col. Robert Howard. The grounds, which slope down towards the river, are really beautiful, and a lot of time and care is put in to maintaining the gardens by long time caretaker Mark Sinnott. Within the grounds there is a small lake and a boathouse. Alongside a high wall, a path leads through formal gardens towards a maze and orchard and to a walled garden. On one side of the path is a clock tower folly, a paved terraced area, and a temple structure with a water feature. The Castle itself backs onto a large lawn dotted with trees and there is access to the woodland to one side too. There is a Laburnum grove, which is magnificent when in full bloom. If you are lucky enough to be in the area when Castle Howard is open, it’s well worth a visit. The grounds are occasionally open to the public, on selected dates throughout the year, usually once or twice a month. Open on selected dates - Call Mark in advance to check the next opening date Castle Howard Estate, Email: marksinnott29@gmail.com Avoca, Phone: 087 298 7601 County Wicklow.

The European Club is a popular choice with Champions from all over the world and Tiger Woods currently holds the course record of 67. The course lies amongst the tumbling dunes just south of Brittas Bay, where you will enjoy sweeping sea views from nineteen of the twenty holes. Yes, there are two extra par-3s here and they are in play most days affording the golfer a 20-hole round which includes five holes running very close to the sea. It is one of the longest links at 7,490-yards from the tips, featuring many unique designs and not least the longest green in the world at hole 12, which measures 127-yards from front to back. The clubhouse offers changing facilities and a restaurant, with golf clubs, push trollies and ride-on golf cars available for hire. Open: From 8a.m. Gates close at dark. Visitors are welcome everyday but not before 10a.m. on Sundays when the members play their weekly competition early. Address Brittas Bay, web: http://www.theeuropeanclub.com/ Co. Wicklow. Email: info@theeuropeanclub.com Phone: 0404 47415

Irelands only dedicated Lavender farm is situated 10km South of Arklow, over the border into Wexford. With four acres of lavender, a beautiful café located in the converted stables, gift shop, children’s playground and ‘Billy the Bull’ quad barrel train ride families with young children will love exploring the farm. Ramble along the 1km looped Woodland Warriors and Enchanted Wood walk, with rustic playground equipment, perfect for little legs. Take in a game of outdoor Snakes and Ladders in the lower lavender field on your way. Browse the Artists’ Attic craft room with homemade crafts direct from local makers, where you can take home something special as the perfect gift or treat yourself! Our Cafe offers delicious homemade breakfast, lunch, cakes and coffee and seats up to 65 people. Open: Open Easter to Halloween 10.30-5.00 Address: Coolnagloose, Web: www.wexfordlavenderfarm.com Inch, Email: info@wexfordlavenderfarm.com Gorey, Wexford Phone: 087 0686774

The Wild Atlantic Way may come to mind when you think of surfing in Ireland but take a closer look at the East Coast and you’ll be rewarded with some great options near Arklow, especially for the beginner or intermediate water sport enthusiast. With the coastline around Arklow accessible from Dublin City in less than an hour, you’ll always spot a recreational surfer or stand-up paddle boarder making the most of the water and sandy stretches of beach. When taking to the water, always be aware of tides and weather conditions for the period you expect to be in the water. Both Arklow South Beach and Brittas Bay South Beach have manned lifeguard stations from June to September. Surfing: Surfing on the East Coast of Ireland is all about fun and making the most of the opportunities as the conditions allow. Brittas Bay Beach is the most popular in the area for Surfing due to the long stretch of strand available, and with a good offshore wind, some decent waves. Pick a time when conditions are favourable – a good place to start is start is with ‘MagicSeaweed’, a worldwide forecasting site. Be mindful of strong currents on the East Coast and stay safe in the water. Stand UP Paddle Boarding: If you’ve recently dipped your toe into SUP, pack your board and Visit Arklow! There are some amazing stretches of coastline to explore and popular spots include South Beach and The Cove in Arklow and Brittas Bay, depending on conditions. Take to the water and put your paddling skills to work, and your balance to the test! Kiteboarding: The coast from Brittas Bay to Arklow offers super opportunities for kite surfing, or kite boarding, with long sandy stretches and relatively flat water. Brittas is 5km in length so the flat lands for miles backing often mean a good chance of West /South West winds. Kitesurfing is great fun and the often blustery Irish Sea Coastline usually delivers the right environment to enjoy the sport. Brittas Bay Surf School: If you are looking to try surfing or SUP for the first time, Brittas Bay Surf Schools is the first dedicated surf school on the East Coast of Ireland. Find them between the North and South Carparks at Brittas Bay - just follow the Billabong flags and Brittas Bay Surf School signs. The team have over 26 years’ experience, and in the Summer season, offer daily surf lessons, kids surf camps, SUP lessons, catering for kids and adults of all surf and fitness levels. Don't have any gear but would like to head out yourself? They also rent surf gear including wetsuits, booties, surfboards, and SUPs. Open: Lessons 10am and 2pm, and by appointment – Booking is essential. Contact the Surf School to book. Address the Dunes, Brittas Bay, Co Wicklow Web: www.brittasbaysurfschool.com Email: info@brittasbaysurfschool.com Social: www.facebook.com/BrittasBaySurfSchool Phone 086 263 3075

Just 10km inlands from Arklow, in the pretty village of Aughrim with stunning views of the surrounding South Wicklow hills, is the National Disabled Angling Facility. ‘Fishing for All’ is a put-and-take 4-acre fishing lake open to the public and welcomes families, tour groups, as well as the individual fishing enthusiast. The award-winning facility is fully wheelchair accessible with specially constructed pathways allowing anglers to get within 45cm of the waters’ edge. The lake is stocked with game fish sourced from a local fish-farm, including brown and rainbow trout. The fishing lakes is set in a larger 8-acre riverside park, with bowling green, nature walks and children’s playground. Anglers have a choice of permits, from hourly to daily, and casting tuition is available for newcomers to the sport. Bait can be purchased onsite and rods are available for hire, or you can bring your own equipment. Opening Times: Summer March 31st to Oct 27th 9am to 5pm (last ticket sold at 4pm) Winter Oct 28th to March 30th – 9am to 4pm (last ticket sold 3pm) Address: Rednagh Road, Aughrim, Co Wicklow Web aughrim.ie/fishing/ Phone 0402 36552 Social - www.facebook.com/aughrimtroutfishing/

Established in 1994 by the Byrne family, Moneylands Farm complex is perched overlooking the Irish Sea and is surrounded by rolling hills and woodlands. This idyllic setting offers a cosy, inspiring and peaceful atmosphere to unwind, reconnect and create memories. There are several styles of accommodation available, giving great choice for couples, families, or groups, with Farm B&B, self-catering apartments, premium villas, and motorhome bays. The six Self-Catering apartments offer comfortable 4*star facilities of two or three bedrooms. New for 2021 are two luxury range apartments – ‘The Oyster’. Some are ground floor and some two story. Enjoy the use of your own fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, TV, Electric Heating, Fireplaces (in selected apartments), Patios (in selected apartments) and Free Parking. Guide Dogs are welcome. Moneylands Farm also has an onsite café, The Broken Chair, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunch while taking in the beautiful views. Open Year Round Address: Moneylands Farm, Web: www.moneylandsfarm.com/self-catering Arklow, Email: moneylandsbnb@gmail.com Co. Wicklow. Tel: 0402 32259

Just a few kilometres outside the town of Arklow, with views back towards the coastline, sits Sheepwalk House & Cottages. Built originally in 1727, Sheepwalk is full of charm and atmosphere and was the birthplace of Daniel Murray, a nineteenth century Archbishop of Dublin. These lovely rustic self-catering properties include an authentic 8-bedroom 18th century farmhouse and 4 cosy cottages set around a gorgeous courtyard on 9 acres of green Wicklow countryside. The Main Farmhouse sleeps up to 16 and it available on a self-catering basis. Each cottage has its own personality – choose from The Coach House, The Granary, The Pony House, or The Barn. Each home requires a two-night minimum stay. At Sheepwalk you may also spot the poly tunnel, an orchard, 16 raised beds, beehives, sheep, hens, pheasants, gorgeous trees, fabulous wildflowers, and an abundance of birdsong. This is the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life. Open Year Round Address: Sheepwalk House & Cottages, Web: www.sheepwalkhouse.com Beech Road, Email: sheepwalkwicklow@gmail.com Arklow, Tel: 085 2057774 Co. Wicklow.

Try something new and visit the Turning Thistle Pottery & Woodturning studio, situated 15km from Arklow! Christien Van Bussel works from her studio in Aughrim, where she designs and makes pottery (tableware) and woodturned objects. Over the years Christien has gained wide experience in teaching adults and children in pottery and woodturning. She organizes classes in her own spacious studio where students are encouraged to explore their potential and creativity. She also works with groups in schools and other community locations. Small groups are welcome to celebrate a special occasion or birthday. Open: Open year-round – visits and classes by appointment. Call in advance for availability. Address: Upper Aughrim, Web: www.turningthistle.com Aughrim, Email: vanbussel.c@gmail.com Co Wicklow Phone: 086 8597267

These gorgeous stone-fronted holiday homes are located in rural area, 10 kms from Arklow, close to Woodenbridge and Avoca. This lovely location offers fantastic scenery, local amenities, and attractions, including heritage sites, play parks, golf, horse riding, hill walking, cycling or just a place to relax. The two semi-detached houses are ideal for a short break or longer holiday and are the perfect choice for the whole family, all year round. One cottage offers three en-suite bedrooms and the other two, and each cottage has a wheelchair accessible shower and toilet. On your doorstep is Wicklow’s most popular seaside destination Brittas Bay, and well-known attractions like Glendalough and Clara Lara Fun Park are within a thirty-minute drive. Both houses fully equipped to 4-star standard with bed linen and towels provided. Highchair and cot available. Guide dogs welcome. Open Year Round, except Christmas & New Year Address: Ballykillageer, Web: http://ballykillageerselfcatering.com/ Woodenbridge, Email: info@ballykillageerselfcatering.com Arklow, Tel: 087 6774495 Co. Wicklow.

Oakwood, located near Redcross village just 15km from Arklow Town, is a family-run yard with excellent facilities including a large all-weather arena, cross country fences, stabling and grazing. Oakwood stables are within easy reach of top show-jumping venues, and two local hunts. Oakwood who are Fáilte Ireland and AIRE approved, specialise in coaching children and young riders who are interested in improving their skills. Lessons are available for all ages and stages! Horse Sport Ireland qualified coaches will prepare a tailored approach to help new riders to achieve their horse sport goals. Oakwood Stables also take riders out for great local hacking around the Wicklow hills and forests, and during the winter season a ride at the magnificent Brittas Bay beach. Staycation Pony Camp – New for 2021! This year at Oakwood Stables invite riders of all levels to join for a staycation, where long summer days will be used to work on improving flatwork, show-jumping and cross-country skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere. The 7-day residential camp (or a 5-day camp Monday to Friday for younger riders), covers everything from grooming and care, to riding, meals, fun and games and accommodation in the farmhouse, guest lodge or with a local host family. If you love all things equine, good food, atmosphere, and the great outdoors you are sure to have a fantastic time. Open: Daily 9am to 5pm. Call for availability and bookings. Address: Oakwood Stables Redcross, Web: http://www.oakwoodstables.ie/ County Wicklow Email: amanda@oakwoodstables.ie Ireland Phone: 086 172 8878

This charming old two-storey game-keepers cottage between Avoca and Redcross is hidden away in a beautiful, peaceful area. A much-loved cottage that’s been around for a very long time, part of its charm is that it has wonderful old walls and exposed brickwork from its original chimney. New windows, floors and insulation has made it extra cosy! The quaint sitting room is warmed by the wood burning stove where you’ll find a collection of old books, games, and a vinyl record player. Keep an eye out for the plentiful wildlife and birds all around with Red Kites regularly seen circling overhead. The cottage, although set in a quiet part of the Wicklow hills, is close to Avoca, the home of Ballykissangel and Avoca Handweavers. Extensive walking routes in Glenmalure and Glendalough are within easy reach and the beautiful Brittas Bay beach is only about 12km away. There are lovely walks around the cottage through woodlands and lanes. The old Avoca Copper mines and the Mottee Stone are nearby. Two wonderful places to visit close by are Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens and Avondale House & Forest Park, home of Charles Stewart Parnell. Dogs are welcome. Open Year Round, except Christmas & New Year Address: Knockanree Upper, Email: gill.brown@gmail.com Avoca, Tel: 086 1715586 Co. Wicklow.

The Macreddin Valley is an area of outstanding natural beauty, tucked away at the southern reaches of the Wicklow Mountains, just 16km from Arklow Town. In the heart of the valley lies Macreddin Golf Course, a magnificent 18-hole, Par 72 golf course set within 160 acres of tranquil woodland splendour, spanning 7,173 yards. Macreddin is the first course ever designed by Irish professional golfer and Ryder Cup Captain Paul McGinley. After years of competing at the peak of the game, playing against the world’s elite golfers and across the most acclaimed golf courses, Paul brought all his experience to bear in creating a course that oozes class and quality. Macreddin Golf Course is described by Golf World Magazine as “Outstanding and Truly Spectacular” and was crowned ‘Best Hidden Gem Leinster’ in the Golfers Guide to Ireland Awards 2015. Golf Journalist Kevin Markham’s rates Macreddin in his Top 10 Golf Courses in Ireland, and he has played all 340! Facilities include a 300m long driving range, open to the public for summer and winter use. The USGA specification dedicated short-game practice area is designed to cater for those all-important short-range shots around the green and from greenside bunkers. 50 Golf Buggies are available for hire with a network of buggy paths stretching along every hole which allows for all year-round buggy usage. A small clubhouse is complemented by the wonderful facilities of Macreddin Village and the Brooklodge Hotel, which is located directly across the road. This fabulous 4-star hotel boasts two restaurants, The Orchard Café and Acton’s Traditional Irish Pub, which brews its own beer. Address: Macreddin East Web: www.macreddingolfclub.com Macreddin Village, Email: info@macreddingolfclub.com Co. Wicklow Phone: 0402 36999