Wicklow Head and its Lighthouses
About
Wicklow Head is the easternmost point of the Republic of Ireland, though not of the island, which reaches further east at Burr Point in Co. Down, and it carries three lighthouse towers, which is two more than anywhere needs. Two were built on the headland in 1781, an upper and a lower, deliberately paired so that mariners could not confuse Wicklow with the single lights at Howth Head and Hook Head. The lower one was replaced by the tower first lit in 1818, which is the working light today and has been automatic since 1994. The 1781 upper tower was gutted by lightning in 1836 and left standing as a daytime landmark; it is the octagonal one, and it is now let as self-catering accommodation by the Irish Landmark Trust, with a kitchen at the top of 109 steps. The headland itself is open ground with a road down to the working station, cliffs on three sides and seals in the water below. There is no visitor centre and no tour: it is a place you walk and look at.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓The easternmost point of the Republic of Ireland
- ✓Two towers built in 1781, plus the 1818 tower that is still the working light
- ✓The octagonal 1781 tower, gutted by lightning in 1836 and now Irish Landmark Trust accommodation
- ✓Grey seals and seabirds on the cliffs below
Tips
- →The working lighthouse station is not open to the public; the headland and the old towers are what you come to see.
- →The approach lane is narrow with limited turning space. Consider walking out along the cliff path from Glen Beach instead.
- →This is the most exposed spot in the area. In a strong easterly it is genuinely unpleasant.
Best Season
More Attraction Activities
The Black Castle
The free, unfenced Norman ruin on the promontory above the harbour mouth, with the best short view in the town.
Wicklow's Historic Gaol
The 18th-century county gaol on Kilmantin Hill, closed for refurbishment since September 2025 with a new operator approved and reopening expected in 2026. Check before travelling.
Wicklow Harbour and the East Pier
A working commercial port with a fishing fleet, a timber quay and an RNLI station on station since 1857. Walk the East Pier out to the light.