Things To Do

Things To Do



The village of Tinahely in county Wicklow offers a wide variety of things to see and do, including beautiful walks in the surrounding countryside, a vibrant arts centre presenting a host of live events and art exhibitions all year round, horse-riding, golf and a local library.

County Wicklow is located just south of Dublin traditionally known as “The Garden of Ireland”. Wicklow displays a scenic beauty that justifies this name. Archaeological and historical remains are in their abundance, particularly in West Wicklow. But there is far more to Wicklow than its magnificent scenery. There are 20 golf courses, many angling facilities, mountaineering and hillwalking. Walkers have said they could seek no better terrain, traditional Irish Pubs, music and crafts.

Golfer's Paradise



At Madeline’s Accommodation in Tinahely, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing and hassle-free golf getaway. With comfortable, stylish rooms, a warm welcome, and a central location, we offer the perfect base to explore seven fantastic golf courses within a 30-minute drive.


Walking on the Wicklow Way



The Wicklow Way, Ireland’s oldest and most iconic long-distance walking trail, winds through the breathtaking landscapes of County Wicklow, offering walkers a journey of rugged mountains, lush forests, and rolling countryside. Nestled along this legendary route, Tinahely is a perfect stopover or base for hikers looking to explore some of the most scenic and peaceful sections of the trail. With its welcoming atmosphere, comfortable accommodation at Madeline’s, and a selection of cafés, pubs, and local attractions, Tinahely provides the ideal place to rest, refuel, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Ireland’s walking heartland. Whether you're tackling a multi-day trek or enjoying shorter looped walks, Tinahely offers a warm welcome and easy access to some of the finest walking routes in Wicklow.




Tinahely Past & Present Audio Tour



Immerse yourself in the rich history of Tinahely with our captivating "Past & Present" audio walking tour. Discover the vibrant tales of our village as you embark on a journey through time. Explore the remnants of ancient landmarks and learn about the lives of the remarkable individuals who shaped Tinahely's heritage. Unearth fascinating anecdotes about the local community and witness the transformation of this charming village. Spoken & composed by Anthony Murphy & Pat Dixon.

Elvis Presley Audio Tour



Discover the fascinating Irish roots of Elvis Presley with our free audio tour, exploring his ancestral connection to this area of Ireland—an intriguing journey through history, music, and heritage. Elvis' ancestors are buried in Kilquiggan graveyard, listen as we guide you through a virtual tour of this historic site.


Spoken & composed by Anthony Murphy & Pat Dixon.



Beyond The Trees Treetop Walk



Beyond the Trees Rooftop Walk is a new world class visitor destination in Ireland’s Ancient East that opened its doors in June 2022 following a €19 million redevelopment project by Coillte.
The longest Treetop Walk in Ireland & the UK, at 1.4km it brings visitors on an adventure through and above the trees, their journey culminating at the impressive Viewing Tower. Here the magnificent architectural tower standing 38m above the forest reveals panoramic 360-degree views over the Wicklow Mountains, the Avonmore River, and the Vale of Avoca. To complete this innovative experience, both adults and children can opt to continue their adventure and whizz their way back down the tower via the gigantic 90m spiral slide. 


Rathwood



Rathwood is a popular destination located in Tullow, a short 20 minute drive from Madelines. 
To complement the garden center experience, Rathwood offers a delightful café and restaurant. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal or indulge in a cup of coffee and freshly baked treats while surrounded by the beauty of the gardens. 

Rathwood Garden Centre is particularly popular among families due to its range of family-friendly activities. They offer a charming train ride through the woods, where children can meet characters from popular stories. They also organise seasonal events and activities such as Easter egg hunts, Christmas experiences, and pumpkin picking during Halloween, creating memorable moments for the whole family.






The Dying Cow Pub




The Dying Cow (7mins drive) is a hidden gem, situated just off the Wicklow Way walking track. Its one of the few remaining traditional Irish pubs in the country. Its a cosy pub with friendly people, great music and good craic! A traditional music session is held every two week. 

The Courthouse Arts Centre



The Courthouse is a multi-disciplinary non-profit arts centre, dedicated to artistic excellence and actively nurturing the creative and cultural life of this region. It hosts a varied programme of arts and cultural events, including musical and theatre performances, visual arts exhibitions and installations, and arthouse and foreign cinema. 




Wicklow National Park



Wicklow Mountains National Park is a breathtaking 205-square-kilometre protected area in Ireland, one of six national parks in the country. 



Tinahely Railway Walk and Tomnafinnogue Woods



Situated at the end of the Tinahely Railway Walk is Tomnafinnogue woods. Ireland's oldest Oak woodland. With a beautiful river walk it is a must-visit attraction for walkers of all abilities. The Railway walk runs the route of the old railway that rain through Tinahely.


Nearby Beaches



When staying in Madelines, you'll have the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful beaches of Wicklow and Wexford. Wicklow boasts a stunning coastline, with gems like Brittas Bay and Silver Strand. These sandy havens provide a peaceful retreat, ideal for long walks, picnics, and sunbathing. Moving on to Wexford, you'll discover an array of breathtaking beaches, such as Curracloe and Courtown. Curracloe Beach is famous for its golden sand and dunes, while Courtown offers a vibrant seaside atmosphere with amusements and a lively promenade. Whether you're seeking tranquillity or adventure, the beaches in Wicklow and Wexford, promise an unforgettable coastal experience.

If you take a trip to Courtown, be sure to visit Seal Rescue Ireland, a wonderful organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured seals along the coast of Ireland. Visitors to Seal Rescue can learn about these fascinating creatures, witness the rehabilitation process, and even see the seals up close. If you're very lucky, you might get to see some seals being released back into the ocean.

See website for further information: www.sealrescueireland.org


Equestrian Centres



Horses play an important part in the life of the Tinahely community and that of the people in the surrounding countryside and villages. Everywhere you go in the area you will see horses and ponies grazing in the fields. There has been a continuity of involvement with horses amongst the local farming community for centuries and all the skills associated with producing a variety of thoroughbred, sports horses and ponies still survive to this day.


At Broomfield Equestrian Centre, just a short drive outside the village on the Tinahely/Knockananna Road, there are great opportunities to enjoy equestrian sport at any level. The centre caters for all standards of riders from beginners to advanced. With a large indoor school and even larger outdoor arena along with cross country courses and miles of trekking facilities, visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful outdoor activity in a beautiful setting. For further information contact Pam Horan on 0402 38117 or 087 7513186.


Whitewell Equestrian Centre also offers private livery and instruction and can be found here: 



Historic Houses and Gardens



Madeline's accommodation in Tinahely provides a perfect base for exploring the region's rich heritage, with easy access to numerous historic houses and gardens. Enjoy tranquil countryside retreats by day, and return to the comfort of Madeline's after your historical explorations.




Wicklow Way Wine Tour & Tastings



Based in Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, many people are interested in what Wicklow Way Wine do, want to taste their wines, and see how they make them! Prepare to be guided on a casual and unique tour of the winery – consider it an intro to winemaking, from their fabulous co-owner and winemaker, Brett. Following this, you will experience the beautiful flavours of the 3 Berry Wines, alongside Irish artisan cheeses and chocolates, overlooking the vats of wine. 

Tinahely Craft Market



Open every Friday & Saturday from 10am-4pm, located in the middle of the village, opposite Murphy’s butchers. Featuring a large variety of crafts, all hand made with sustainability in mind and all items are made locally.

Craft workshops are run regularly. Please check out their Facebook page for updates by clicking here. Every Thursday from 10:30am- 1:30pm, an informal “Knit & Stitch” coffee morning is hosted. All welcome!




Avoca Handweavers



Step into the rich history of Avoca Handweavers, Ireland’s oldest working woolen mill, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Located in the picturesque village of Avoca, this historic mill has been producing beautifully woven textiles since 1723. Visitors can watch skilled weavers at work, browse the stunning selection of scarves, throws, and homeware in the shop, and enjoy a delicious meal or treat at the Avoca Café, known for its fresh, locally inspired dishes and homemade baked goods. A visit to Avoca is a feast for the senses and a celebration of Irish heritage.

Avoca Mines




Avoca Mines – A Glimpse into Ireland’s Copper Mining Past

Just a short distance from the mill, the Avoca Mines tell the story of Ireland’s rich mining history. Once a thriving copper and gold mining hub, the site is now a fascinating and atmospheric landscape of red-hued hills, abandoned tunnels, and industrial ruins, offering visitors a chance to explore the forgotten past of one of Ireland’s most significant mining regions.





Greenan Farm and Maze




Greenan Farm & Maze is the perfect family-friendly destination, offering a mix of outdoor adventure, farmyard fun, and a challenge for all ages. Get lost in the fantastic maze, where twists, turns, and surprises await, or enjoy the hands-on farm experience, meeting friendly animals and learning about life on a working farm. Set in the heart of the countryside, Greenan Farm is a great day out for families.










Glendalough



Glendalough, a glacial valley steeped in history and natural beauty, captivates visitors with its monastic city ruins, including the iconic round tower, nestled amidst serene lakes and lush woodlands. Explore ancient pathways, discover hidden waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of this iconic Irish landmark, where history and nature converge in a truly unforgettable experience.

Blessington Greenway



The Blessington Greenway offers a delightful journey through the heart of Wicklow's scenic landscape. This accessible trail, tracing the shores of Blessington Lakes, provides walkers and cyclists with stunning views of the water and surrounding hills. 1 Meandering through forests, fields, and historical sites, the Greenway offers a peaceful and invigorating experience.

Blessington Lakes



Nestled amidst the rolling Wicklow hills, Blessington Lakes offer a tranquil escape with breathtaking panoramic views. The shimmering waters invite kayaking, fishing, and leisurely boat trips, while the surrounding trails are perfect for scenic walks and picnics, making it an idyllic destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.


Trail Running on the Wicklow Way



Tinahely and its surrounding areas offer fantastic trail running opportunities, with routes ranging from gentle woodland paths to challenging climbs along the iconic Wicklow Way. Runners can explore the rugged beauty of the landscape, traversing rolling hills, dense forests, and breathtaking vistas.

Ready for your next adventure?



More things to do:



Canoeing & Kayaking with “Pure Adventure” (55mins drive)
Castlecomer Discovery Park (1hr drive)
Tick Tock Activity Farm (up to 10 years of age) (25mins drive)
Greenan Farm Museum and Maze (25mins drive)
Woodenbridge Golf Club (20mins drive)
Avoca Mines (30mins drive)
Avondale House (30mins drive)
Mill at Avoca Village (25mins drive)
Clara Lara Funpark (35mins drive)