Enniskerry County Wicklow
Enniskerry is quite a picturesque village in County Wicklow. It is sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to Wicklow.” It is nicely situated in the valley of the Glencullen River, and it is surrounded by the Wicklow Mountains.
This Victorian-style village has an old-world feel and is a nice place to stop and enjoy the beautiful natural beauty and interesting historic attractions. Enniskerry provides a quiet, peaceful retreat from the sometimes frantic pace of the city.
A Brief History of Enniskerry
Enniskerry is a planned estate village, largely developed in the mid-19th century by the Wingfield family, the Viscounts of Powerscourt. The village was built to accommodate the workers of the vast Powerscourt Estate and to provide a scenic approach to the grand house itself. Its name derives from the Irish “Áth na Sceire,” meaning “Ford of the Reefs.” The village’s layout, featuring a central square and a distinctive clock tower, was designed to reflect an idealised Victorian aesthetic, which remains remarkably well-preserved today. This architectural consistency is why the village remains a designated architectural conservation area.
Location and Accessibility
Located approximately 20 kilometres south of Dublin city centre, Enniskerry serves as a convenient starting point for exploring County Wicklow. The village is easily accessible by car via the N11, and for those using public transport, the Dublin Bus route 44 serves the village directly from the city centre. Additionally, the DART to Bray followed by the 185 bus provides a scenic route for visitors. Its proximity to the capital makes it a popular day-trip destination, yet it retains a distinct rural character that feels worlds away from urban life.
What Makes the Village Special?
The heart of Enniskerry is the village square, characterised by the iconic Victorian Clock Tower erected in 1843. Beyond its architecture, the village is famous for its hospitality and its recent rise to Hollywood fame. Here are a few things that make the village unique:
- Hollywood Connection: Enniskerry was the primary filming location for Disney’s “Disenchanted,” where the village was transformed into a fairy-tale set with colourful storefronts and flowers.
- Cafe Culture: The village is home to several award-winning cafes and tea rooms, perfect for a post-hike treat.
- Artisan Shopping: You will find unique local boutiques and craft shops housed in the stone-clad buildings.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
While the village itself is beautiful, the surrounding area is packed with world-class attractions that draw thousands of visitors annually. Most of these are within a short walk or drive from the village centre:
- Powerscourt Estate and Gardens: Voted the third best garden in the world by National Geographic, this estate features Italianate gardens, Japanese gardens, and a grand mansion.
- Powerscourt Waterfall: Standing at 121 metres, it is Ireland’s highest waterfall, located just 6km from the village.
- The Wicklow Way: Enniskerry is a key stop for hikers walking this famous long-distance trail through the mountains.
- Knockrose Garden: A hidden gem of a traditional cottage garden located nearby for those seeking peace and quiet.
Useful Information for Visitors
To make the most of your visit, keep in mind that Enniskerry can become quite busy during weekends and bank holidays. Parking in the village square is limited, so arriving early is recommended. Many visitors choose to combine a trip to the village with a walk through the nearby Knocksink Wood, a beautiful nature reserve with riverside trails. Most local establishments are dog-friendly, making it a great spot for those traveling with pets. Whether you are stopping by for a coffee or staying for a weekend of hiking, Enniskerry offers a warm Wicklow welcome to everyone.
