Looking for a new golfing destination? South Wicklow is home to some gems - from links to parkland and all with stunning views and top quality courses. We give you the low down on where you can play golf within swinging distance of Arklow Town. The Arklow district covers an area from Brittas Bay South to Glenmalure, so the variety of courses available, within short driving distance of one another, is phenomenal. Arklow itself is a vibrant seaside town that sits just inside the south Wicklow border, but with a definite Sunny-South-East vibe! County Wexford is just a couple of kilometres away and Dublin can be reached by train, bus or motorway in under an hour. Perfect for a society weekend away or to base yourself to take in some of the best courses in Ireland. 1. Arklow Golf Links First established in 1927, Arklow Golf Club is an 18-hole seaside links course, renowned for being warm and inviting to all visitors from home and overseas. This course is nestled to the South of the town, between the Arklow Rock, the Irish Sea and mountains to the west, affording wonderful scenery all around. A traditional links, Arklow Golf Course was formed by Hawtree & Taylor in 1927 and evolved with input from Eddie Hackett, in the 1970’s and more recently, Eddie Connaughton. The course has been described as a ‘Hidden Jewel’ and the Southern Region of the Irish PGA held their 2001 and 2002 Championships on this links. Arklow is ranked in Golf Digest Magazine Top 100 Irish Golf Courses in 2020. This Par 69 golf course is laid out over 6,516 yards and offers the golfer a challenging round – plenty of hollows, sand hills, marram grass and bunkers to be negotiated. There is a lively Clubhouse Bar and Restaurant with capacity for 100 people, pro-shop and practice green with 9 holes and putting green all onsite. Visitors can avail of lockers, changing area and showers, and buggies, electric trollies and caddy carts are all available to hire. You’re sure to enjoy this wonderfully unique course, as well as the tranquil and panoramic views over the links with its meandering fairways and rugged sand dunes, all set against a backdrop of the Irish Sea. Open: Daily, all year round. Visitors Welcome – availability and booking via the website here. 2. Woodenbridge Golf Course Woodenbridge is the second oldest golf course in Ireland - the first officially documented game of golf here took place way back in 1884 before the club was opened to all who wished to play in 1894. For 100 years, 9 holes were played here until 1994 when Paddy Merrigan was commissioned to design the additional nine-hole layout and extend Woodenbridge to a Par 71, 18-hole course. Woodenbridge Golf Club is situated just 7km from Arklow, where the Avoca and Aughrim rivers meet and today is considered one of Ireland’s top parkland courses, spanning 6,341 yards and surrounded by rivers and mature forests. Woodenbridge was described by the legendary Joe Carr as “Ireland’s Augusta” and “The most scenic golf course in Ireland, a hidden gem” and in the 2012 Golfer's Guide to Ireland Woodenbridge was nominated as ‘Leinster's Hidden Gem’. The Woodenbridge Clubhouse offers all the facilities that the visiting golfer would expect including a large changing area with shower facilities and golf buggy and trolly hire. There is a fully stocked golf shop offering a wide range of equipment and attire. Upstairs, The Pheasantry Restaurant and bar area provide great views over the course, with most of the course's holes in eyeshot, and food is served from 10:00am to 9:30pm daily with seating for up to 70 people. Open: Daily, all year round. Visitors Welcome – availability and booking via the website here. 3. The European Club The European Club has been a popular choice with Champions from all over the world - Tiger Woods currently holds the course record of 67 here! Just 10km from Arklow, the course lies amongst the tumbling dunes of Brittas Bay South, 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. Find out more here. 4. Macreddin Golf Course Heading inland to 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. Open: Daily, all year round. Visitors Welcome – availability and booking via the website here.

Luxurious Elemis body therapies and unique massage techniques are combined with potent natural active formulations for maximum results. Open: Monday to Saturday from 11am. Sunday from 12pm. Address: The Arklow Bay Hotel, Email: Arklow, Tel: Co Wicklow.

A popular choice for foodies, Christy's is located in the heart of Arklow on Main Street. Serving up wholesome Gastro inspired food with daily specials, and a wide variety of drinks, with an extensive range of whiskeys available. Live Sports Coverage and Music weekly. A large outdoors area is located to the rear of the bar, which backs onto the Riverwalk, and is perfect for sunny summer days and chilly winter evenings. Parking is available on Main Street or along the Riverwalk. Open: Monday to Saturday from 11am. Sunday from 12pm. Address: 38a Main Street Email: arkviewcatering@gmail.com Arklow, Tel: 0402 29029 Co Wicklow.

Link's Restaurant is located at Arklow Golf Club with panormaic views of the Irish Sea and the links golf course, and is ranked Number 1 Restaurant in Arklow on Tripadvisor. Link's Restaurant offers a varied menu of delicious food with specials changing from day to day. The restaurant has a new outdoor dining space and promises the best quality and service for visiting guests and members, with a large selection of menus for different types of functions, and caters to all ages. Looking out over the beautiful links golf course and with vistas of the Irish Sea you’re sure to enjoy the food and the incredible scenery here. Plentiful free customer parking available onsite. Open Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm Address: Arklow Golf Club Web: www.arklowgolflinks.com/facilities/restaurant Tinahask Lower, Email: onewaystreetagc@gmail.com Arklow Tel: 0402 32492 Co. Wicklow.

Among the many trails within easy reach of Arklow, are several offering a nice challenge to the experienced hiker. Arklow is known as the ‘Gateway to the Glens’ and a 30-minute drive from the coast will bring you to Glenmalure, one of the best locations in Ireland for hiking and hillwalking! Glenmalure is perfect location for the serious hiker, with access to Lugnaquilla, Ireland’s second highest peak, and two sections of the famous Wicklow Way. From Glenmalure you are right at the half-way point of the Wicklow Way which stretches 130km from the edge of the Dublin Mountains to Clonegal in the South. There are two great options for you to do a section of the Wicklow Way from here. These are full day hikes, so go prepared with adequate clothing, food, and water supplies. It is recommended you know how to navigate using map or compass while in the Wicklow uplands. Parking is available at the Glenmalure Lodge where a small charge applies, however your car will be secure. Check out our list of top hikes to do in the Arklow District which are considered strenuous. 1. Miner's Path (1.6km / Strenuous) GPS start point: 52.975254,-6.391892 (Carpark) From Ballinafunshoge Carpark this short but steep path follows the same route once used by miners heading to and from the Ballinafunshoge mine, which was one of six lead mines located in the Glenmalure Valley. Enjoy gorgeous views of the nearby Glenmalure Waterfall and the wider valley as they open up over the valley, and head into the forest around to discover more trails. 2. Wicklow Way - South: Glenmalure to Iron Bridge. (14km one way / 3.5 hours each way / Strenuous) GPS start point: Glenmalure 52.9577, -6.3542 From the carpark head onto the road in front of the Glenmalure Lodge and turn left at the crossroads. A couple of hundred metres down this narrow road, you will see a forest entrance on your right, with brown finger signpost for the Wicklow Way. Cross over the brook and veer left. Follow the brown and yellow walking man markers South along the side of Slieve Mann before descending to the Iron Bridge over the Ow River. This is quieter section of the Wicklow Way and offers stunning views of the South Wicklow countryside. 3. Wicklow Way - North: Glenmalure to Glendalough. (14km one way / 4.5 hours each way / Strenuous) GPS start point: Glenmalure 52.9577, -6.3542 From the carpark head out onto the road in front of the Lodge and turn right. Climbing up the road you will soon reach a Trailhead sign for Glenmalure Forest. Follow the brown and yellow walking man markers to join the Wicklow Way. You will continue to climb steadily with panoramic views of Lugnaquilla and Fraughan Rock Glen, before heading on towards Lugduff Ridge. You may see signs for the Miners Way, which crosses over in parts. As you begin to reach the highest point you cross a boggy saddle on a boardwalk heading towards Mullacor (657m). From the peak you will begin your trek down into Glendalough along a mixture of open mountain trail and boardwalk. The views are simply breathtaking - you would be unlucky not to encounter deer along this section of the trail. As you join ‘The Spinc’ trail you will enjoy amazing views from the mountain ridge down over the Glendalough Lakes and Monastic City. The final decent is via a steep zig zag trail which brings you right down pass Poulanass Waterfall and to the lake side at Glendalough. 4. Lugnaquilla (13km out and back / 7 hours / Strenuous) GPS start point: 52.975254,-6.391892 (Carpark) The Glenmalure Valley is the most popular start point for climbing Lugnaquilla, the highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains at 925m. When parked at Ballinafunshoge, you can access The Zigs Zags Route by walking back along the road towards Glenmalure. The Trailhead is close to the Carrawaystick Waterfall by a quaint white cottage with a red roof, that is a photographer’s favourite and is clearly marked with a large signpost, which states that it was originally a hunting path. The trail has been reconstructed by volunteers with permission of the landowners. As this trail crosses a working sheep farm dogs are strictly not allowed. Following the trail and enjoy the stunning views of the Glenmalure Valley as you weave your way up the mountainside. The summit of Lugnaquilla is a bare undulating plateau and the paths are many, so take care to note where you have ascended from or you may get lost easily trying to find your return path! Lugnaquilla is an open mountain and is prone to the changing weather conditions once you rise higher up. This strenuous hike should only be undertaken by experienced walkers, with suitable equipment, supplies and clothing, and a compass and map is recommended.

A popular and long-established gastro pub, The Old Ship is located on Arklow Main Street and offers the discerning customer the best food and drink in safe hygienic surroundings. A friendly, family-run establishment where you will be warmly welcomed. Daily roast specials with generous portions and delicious homemade desserts. The Old Ship also shows all sporting events covered live and is a live music venue offering the best bands on the east coast each weekend. Enquiries welcome for functions of all types. Parking is available on Main Street or along the Riverwalk. Open: Food Served til 8pm Wednesday to Sunday. Address: 44 Main Street Web: https://www.theoldship.ie/ Arklow, Tel: 0402 32271 Co Wicklow.

Taxi Service for Arklow and Surrounding Areas including Airport Runs. Coach, Bus & Mini Bus Hire & Taxi Service. Bookings accepted outside normal business hours. (24 hours) Wheelchair friendly vehicles available on booking. Open year round – call to arrange your requirement. Email: martinlynchtravel@gmail.com Phone: 0402 33400 / 0402 33600

This gorgeous café is just a short drive out of Arklow town at Moneylands Farm. If you enjoy flavoursome food, beautifully presented, in cosy surrounds, you will love The Broken Chair Café. On a sunny day, there is large outdoor seating area where you can enjoy the sunshine and the lovely view of the rolling hills of Wicklow and the chance of a quiet conversation with friends. There is a large indoor space, tastefully decorated with unique touches to the décor. Enjoy breakfast or lunch from the extensive menu, or something seasonal form the daily specials board. Pancakes, hot chocolates, delicious desserts & cakes, open sandwiches and soups, speciality salads, hot dishes and vegetarian options are all available. Open seven days a week in the Summer. Pick up a local gift in the small gift shop attached, or some Broken Chair Café preserves or candles. Free customer car park available. Open: Summer Season March - September open daily 9am-16.00. Winter season Thursday - Monday 9am-16.00 Moneylands Farm Web: https://thebrokenchaircafe.ie/ Arklow, Email: thebrokenchaircafe@gmail.com Co Wicklow Tel: 0402 33225

Avondale Forest Park, on the outskirts of Rathdrum, is situated 18km from Arklow. The impressive Avondale House, dating from the 1770’s, was in the ownership of the Parnell family in the 1800’s and was the birthplace of the great Irish statesman, Charles Stewart Parnell. The state purchased Avondale in 1904 and its magnificent 505-acre estate. Many tree species were planted and trialled for the first time in experimental plots, laid out along the lines of a continental forest garden, which are still visible today along the majestic sweeping lawn known as the ‘Great Ride’. A highlight of visiting Avondale is to explore the vast expanse of the ‘Great Ride, through majestic stands of Sequoia, Spruce and broadleaves and down along to the steep-sided river valley. Today, the Forest Park provides a network of trails for walking and family cycling of varying lengths. Keep an eye out for the Park wildlife including red squirrels, foxes, hedgehogs, and a wide variety of birds including woodpeckers. The River Walk / White Route (5.2 km, Graded Moderate): This is the longest walk at Avondale with a couple of sections with steep descents and climbs. Walking alongside the Avonmore River you pass under two railway bridges, still used today. There is a lot of interest on this trail as it meanders alongside the river views. Further up the hill you can visit ‘Lovers Leap’ and enjoy wonderful views out over the valley. Exotic Tree Trail / Red Route (2 kms, Graded Easy): On the Exotic Tree Trail you will meet trees from many corners of the world that have taken happily to the Irish Environment. This looped trail guides you through a Eucalyptus grove, by some immense Western Red Cedars, under the Giant Sequoia, and through Silver Fir and Monkey Puzzles, amongst others. Dotted along the route are interpretive panels with more information about the trees. Railway Walk (2 kms each way, Graded Easy): This is a linear walk to Rathdrum railway station and town centre, through the woods from Avondale House. Leisure Cycling Trail (1.5kms, Graded Easy): Avondale is a perfect destination for family cycling This is a dual purpose (walking and cycling trail) please respect walkers during your cycle. Orienteering Routes: There are 3 permanent orienteering courses (short, medium, and long courses) with course. Avondale House is currently closed pending a significant re-development by Coillte, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland and Wicklow County Council. An exciting new visitor destination will take visitors ‘under’ and through the trees, to an incredible viewpoint high over the Avonmore river valley. A new ‘living history’ experience in Avondale House will open the life and times of Parnell to visitors in a highly engaging way. In advance of the re-development, Avondale House and Café will not be open but the wider Forest Park remains open every day. Stay tuned! Parking: Carpark onsite – take note of seasonal opening times as you enter as the gate will automatically lock at closing time (free parking currently) Toilets: Public toilet block onsite. Disabled toilets are not available at the Park currently. Picnic Site: Tables are provided near the trailhead with BBQ grills. Grade: Easy to Moderate. Some areas suitable for Wheelchair users. Robust buggies will cope with most routes except the Riverwalk. Small children’s playground onsite.

The wide and meandering Avoca River flows through Arklow’s town centre and is a haven for nature lovers. A 3km Riverwalk loop begins from edge of the 19 Arches Bridge and The Bridge Hotel. Follow the river on a journey inland under the enormous weeping willows which tip the water’s surface in places. Wildlife abounds and you will see plenty of swans, geese, otters, squirrels and even ponies along the way! As you leave the riverbank continue along the path towards the Vale Road, keeping left. After 500m take a left onto the Coomie Lane, with good views of the remains of the Ormond Castle walls to your right as you make your way back onto the riverbank. Several interesting art installations are to be found along the route including a low wall covered with hand-painted ceramic tiles designed by primary school children from Arklow and Chateaudun in France. Dotted along the walk are several hand-carved wooden sculptures depicting native animals. Parking: in the adjacent Bandstand/Main Street Car Park (charges apply) Public Toilets: adjacent within the Car Park

Arklow’s Main Street Park may be small, but this site has played a big part in the town history. The Park itself is the site of the old St Mary's Graveyard - there are still some original gravestones around the perimeter of the park walls, which are interesting to explore. The soil level in the enclosure is about two feet above street level attesting to the numbers buried here. From about 1810, St. Mary's Church of Ireland parish church stood directly across Main Street from the graveyard, which was also St. Mary's, named after the medieval church that had been in the area for centuries, but of which no trace now remains. If you stand in St Mary's Park and look across you will see the letters CHURCH BUIL in black paint on the white wall background. Unfortunately, the remaining engraved letters DINGS were at some stage filled in and painted over by the owner of the adjacent building. A new Church was completed in 1899, St Saviour's on Coolgreaney Road, which is still in use today. St Mary's Church on Main Street demolished in 1990. To the end of the 19th century the town 'stocks' were situated in the Main Street Park and criminals were paraded and jeered at. Take a look at the information panels within the park for more historical information about the area. Today, St. Marys Park is a pleasant place to sit and relax if you are out and about enjoying one of Arklow’s many town walking trails. The fountain with ceramic tiled feature, a nod to Arklow’s pottery heritage, is lit in the evening. The Bandstand is the focal point for many of the festival and events that take place in Arklow throughout the year. The elevated view from the town park extends out over the River Avoca and the adjacent Riverwalk. There is free Virgin WiFi at this location Open: 24 hour access Address Main Street Arklow Co Wicklow Access: Ramp and paved paths provided Parking: in the adjacent carpark (paid)

There are six Heritage Walking routes mapped out around Arklow, all starting at Seaview Avenue, adjacent to the Arklow Nature and Wildlife Reserve (Duck Pond area). Each vary in length and information panels are provided. Brochures are available from Arklow Tourist Office at the Parade Ground or you can download the Heritage Walks brochure via the link below.