Wicklow Head Lighthouse

1 Dog Allowed
From €756 for 2 nights
Sleeps 4

About the Property

1 Dog Allowed
From €756 for 2 nights
Sleeps 4

Wicklow Head Lighthouse, Co. Wicklow.

The phrase “once in a lifetime” is thrown around a lot but this really is one! You will never get an experience quite like staying in a lighthouse dating back to 1781 with incredible views and a secret seal beach nearby.  

Staying at the Wicklow Head Lighthouse is an unforgettable experience for the bucket list, with stunning sea views and a palpable sense of history. It’s a good spot for stargazing and the location will enable you to visit the spectacular sites of Glendalough, Avoca and the Wicklow Mountains. You will experience all sorts of weather, so come prepared!

PLEASE NOTE: Wicklow Head Lighthouse is now fully booked for 2024, and one-night stays are not permitted.

Our calendar for 2025 will be open in Spring. Please sign up to our mailing list on the homepage to be the first to hear.

We think you’ll love

  • Sitting in the thick windowsills looking down the coastline and marvelling at the view.
  • Spotting seals bobbing in the Irish Sea.  
  • Storm-hunting in wild weather and having a bird’s eye view of the elements!

Facilities

  • 2 Double Bedrooms
  • Electric Storage Heating
  • Electric Oven
  • Microwave
  • Fridge/Freezer
  • Towels and Linens Provided
  • Travel cot/crib for infants (under 2 years), on request
  • Hair Dryer
  • Cooking Utensils and Equipment
  • 1 Bathroom with overhead shower
  • Separate WC (located on ground floor)
  • Sitting Room
  • Radio
  • Car Parking

Things you should know

There are 109 steps  to the kitchen, which is on the top floor. Once at the top, the views are breathtaking! 

There is no dishwasher or washing machine at this property. 

This property is surrounded by sea on three sides. There are cliffs nearby and children should be supervised at all times. 

Please note that occasional outdoor events take place at lighthouse properties from time to time throughout the year. 

Please note:  Irish Landmark properties that welcome a pet may not have secure enclosures.  It is vital that you supervise your pet during your stay

WiFi Free Zone:  Irish Landmark believes that digital detox is good for the mind, body and soul.  This is why Irish Landmark properties advocate the properties in our care as WiFi and television free zones. Reconnecting with our lives, nature, our surroundings, books, as well as family and friends, is vital for a happy life. This continues to make us very proud and happy to be a WiFi Free Zone.

Please note:  Irish Landmark properties that welcome a pet may not have secure enclosures.  It is vital that you supervise your pet during your stay

A contribution towards energy fees is applied to all bookings.   As a not for profit organisation, this fee makes a significant contribution to energy costs.   It is our aim to reduce our energy consumption at all self catering properties and encourage guests to reuse, reduce, recycle.

The restoration of Wicklow Head Lighthouse was one of the last projects of the architect, Maura Shaffrey.  The philosophy behind the brief and that of The Irish Landmark Trust, echoed one which Maura had promoted and practised throughout her career, and long before it had become popular or accepted in this country.  This philosophy acknowledged the intrinsic value of our architectural heritage, including its historic and social aspects, but, above all, the particular quality of fabric, form and scale which imbues its aesthetic worth.  It sought to retain these qualities and weave new uses into existing buildings without diluting their essence.  It was not a rigid doctrine which aimed to preserve all in aspic, nor was it one which bowed to the kitsch or the pastiche.  It embraced the demands to incorporate modern facilities sympathetically and took them on board as a challenge in proving the economic viability and future sustainability of retaining and reviving existing buildings.

However, Maura's approach was equally strict on issues such as materials and finishes, insisting that only compatible materials should be used.  Behind this 'rule' was a depth of knowledge and passion.  Maura's last article, before her untimely death, examined the future of the vernacular house and set out a practical and benign approach to 'upgrading', incorporating extensions, etc., as necessary.

The Irish Landmark Trust acquired Wicklow Lighthouse in 1996, and set about conserving the tower.  This involved re-plastering the internal and external walls, making and fitting 27 windows, wiring, plumbing, flooring and installing a water pumping system.  When the stairs and timber floors were in situ, a series of 6 octagonal rooms were arranged vertically.  Although the rooms are small, they have high arched windows set into walls which are almost a metre thick.

All the windows were newly made in accordance with traditional joinery practices.  Double-glazing was used to counteract the high winds and exposed location of the lighthouse.  Blinds for the windows had to be fitted, as it was required that they should be closed at night lest the lights from the lighthouse confuse ships around the headland.  The arched head on the windows meant that special blinds were needed.  These were handmade from various coloured sail fabric and attached to the windows with brass fittings.  Because the blinds are flush to the windows, it means that the window alcove becomes a useable space, even at night when the blinds are closed.

All the walls were painted white, and this gives the building an almost contemporary feel.  It was decided to furnish the lighthouse in a minimalist fashion.  This was further consolidated by the fact that all of the furniture had to be either built in-situ, or else dismantled to bring it up the winding 109 steps to the top.

Because no one had ever lived in the lighthouse, there was no evidence as to how it might have been furnished.  Therefore, the furniture selected is, in general, quite simple with a nautical theme.   The mosaic tiles on the bathroom floor were influenced by similar samples found in other lighthouses.

  • HEALTH AND SAFETY

    Our buildings were made to the standards of earlier times – and sometimes without the intention that they should be lived in. Consequently, you may encounter features that reflect their particular character but that deserve due care and attention, particularly by the young, elderly, less mobile or visually impaired. Examples of these are steps worn with age, uneven surfaces, low ceilings and beams, unexpected drops or changes in level, and by modern standards low or absent lighting. In all cases we have sought to make a sensible compromise between due regard for safety and the careful retention of the fabric of each building, which makes it an interesting place to stay. We ask you to appreciate and use the building with this understanding. If you have any queries about the property you are interested in and would like more clarification, please contact Irish Landmark at bookings@irishlandmark.com.

  • Arrival and Departure Time?

    Unless otherwise agreed with the House Manager the earliest time at which you can check in is 4.00p.m. Guests may NOT take over the property any time later then 9.00pm. Guests are requested to vacate the property by 10.00am at the latest on the day of departure.

  • Can I book a single night?

    No, we must strictly adhere to our 2-night minimum. This is due to the cost of running and maintaining these heritage properties.

  • Do you operate a waiting list?

    No, any cancellations will be made available on our website immediately.

  • Is there a TV?

    No, but there is a radio, board games, cards and plenty of books.

  • Is there WiFi?

    No, at our properties you have an opportunity to experience the best of a former way of life: beautiful architecture, fascinating history and a peaceful relaxed ambiance, without modern electronic distractions, where you decide the pace of your holiday.

  • Do you supply towels and bed linen?

    Yes. The beds will be made up on your arrival and you will be provided with a bath towel and guest towel according to the number of beds in the property.

  • Can I bring a dog?

    Yes. Check the Irish Landmark T&Cs re bringing dogs to Irish Landmark properties. This property is only suitable for one dog.

  • Is there an open fire?

    No.

  • Can I light a fire?

    There is no open fire at Wicklow Lighthouse

  • Do I need a car to get here?

    It would be preferable to have a car as otherwise it will be difficult to get to shops , etc.

  • How do I get the keys?

    When you complete your booking, you will receive an email giving you information about arranging access on your arrival date.

  • Can I arrive early?

    Only by special arrangement with the bookings office and agreement of the local House Manager. A charge is made if you are requesting a morning arrival, as this means we cannot take a booking for the night before your arrival date.

  • What is the latest departure time?

    10.00am. The House Manager will discuss arrangements for your departure on the day you arrive.

  • How far to the nearest town?

    About 10 mins drive back to Wicklow town.

  • Where can I find information about the local area?

    Each of our properties contains a Green Book catered to that specific property. In this book, we have compiled all of the necessary information important local amenities such as medical centres and taxi services, including locations and phone numbers. You will also find tips for recommended restaurants, bars, and things to see and do for all ages.

  • Is there a caterer who will come in to cook meals?

    We do not know of anyone who can go in to cook meals at this property.

  • Is it suitable for children?

    This property is not best suited to young children. Each room is stacked one on top of the other, and there are 109 steps to the kitchen and also a large number of steps to the living room area.

  • Is it suitable for older people?

    This property does not suit anyone with mobility issues. There are 109 steps to the kitchen and there are always steps to get from one room to another.

  • Does it have facilities for disabled people?

    No.

  • Is it suitable for a wheelchair?

    No.

  • Is there central heating?

    There is electric central heating at Wicklow. There are storage heaters throughout the building.

  • Is the cooker electric or gas?

    Electric cooker

  • Is there a shower?

    Yes - there is a shower over bath in the single bathroom

  • How many bathrooms?

    2. 1 bathroom with overhead shower, and 1 separate WC on ground floor.

  • How many day guests can I invite to the house?

    4

  • Can I get to the house by public transport?

    Yes. You would get a train or bus to Wicklow town and a taxi could take you onwards from there to the Lighthouse. However, you would need a car to get to local shops, etc.

  • Where is the nearest train station?

    Wicklow town

  • What is your minimum booking period?

    Irish Landmark Trust have a 2-night stay minimum at all of our properties. Some Special Dates will have restrictions on arrival and departure date which will affect the minimum number of nights.

  • Is there a garden at the house?

    No

  • Is there parking on site?

    Yes there is parking onsite for two cars.

  • Is there outdoor furniture?

    No

  • What condiments and products do you supply?

    We supply teabags, coffee granules, sugar, salt & pepper, cooking oil, tin foil & kitchen roll, handwash, washing up liquid, dishwashing cloths, and dishwasher tablets if there is a dishwasher. We do not supply any other cleaning products that contain chemicals, including laundry detergents – we suggest you bring your own.

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY :

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.

BOOKING:  

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you.

CONTRACT OF HIRE:

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking.

 

Read Full Booking Conditions

See calendar below for availability.

Strictly 2-night minimum stay.

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Reviews

Just Brilliant

“It’s a must for the bucket list! We tried different seasons and none disappointed, every time was special. The shorter days and wilder weather in Winter is an experience not to be missed. Summertime is beautiful too and you have to capture the dawn and sunset on the horizon. Every day is different and well worth getting up very early for.. If you’re seeking a super special heritage place to experience this is it!” (GMcNally).

High Point of a month long trip

“Wander alone along the cliffs amidst the sounds of seabirds or perch in a window to watch the rising sun illuminate a fox’s morning prowl. From a month long trip around Ireland, a country brimming with stunning vistas, fascinating stories and warm people, this is the one memory I will carry home closest to my heart.” (Blanton)

House Manager

Brendan Conway

Brendan is the House Manager at Wicklow Lighthouse. Brendan grew up at the Lighthouse station, and the Conway family have been custodians of the lighthouse in one way or another for over 30 years. Brendan loves to meet guests and tell them about the best things to do in the local area.

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Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY : 

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.     

BOOKING:  

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you. 

CONTRACT OF HIRE:  

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking. 

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.   

V.A.T.:  

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable. 

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:   

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival.  Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email.  The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment.   A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.  

PAYMENT TYPES: 

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).    

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds. 

VOUCHERS:  

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking.  Vouchers have a strict expiry date. 

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:    

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation.  All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification.  Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.   

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):    

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation 

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation.  If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:  

Date of Cancellation 

Cancellation Charge 

More than 12 weeks before start date 

The deposit of 30% 

84 – 28 days before start date 

50% of total rental 

Fewer than 28 days 

100% of total rental 

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.    

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION:  In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight.   Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21.  Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.   

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:  

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date.  It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.  

DAY VISITORS:  

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc.   Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors. 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents. 

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:   

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog.  ALWAYS check this before you book.  Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties.  Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property.  The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.   

ELECTRIC VEHICLES: 

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.  

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:   

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment.  We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer.   All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand.   If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property. 

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:   

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark. 

GENERAL:   

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing. 

RIGHT OF ENTRY:   

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible.   There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits. 

COMPLAINTS:  

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager.  If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.   

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost.  If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer.  Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES 

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog.  There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere: 

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking.  A charge will apply.  

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property.  If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply. 

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep.  Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog. 

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control.  Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture.  There is no exception to this rule.  

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings.  A vacuum cleaner is available to you.   

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.   

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable.  Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.  

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property.  We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out.  Please be mindful of any livestock nearby. 

 

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees: 

 

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions. 

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms. 

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage. 

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same. 

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations 

 

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.   

 

Availability Calendar

Check availability for all of our properties at a glance here.

Republic of Ireland
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Northern Ireland
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Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December.