Rathnew offers several specific points of interest for planning a trip: the history of Rathnew Brickworks, the Ann and Slang rivers, Hunter's Hotel, and a bus route that passes through the town. This makes it possible to combine local industrial history and scenery with practical travel considerations.
Rathnew Brickworks and its history
Rathnew Brickworks was established in the 19th century, after high-quality clay was discovered locally. Initially, high-quality bricks were made there by hand. The kiln was operational by 1899 at the latest, and was the second of its kind in Ireland. Anyone interested in Rathnew's industrial history will find some specific milestones here: the discovery of the clay, the craft of brickmaking, and the kiln becoming operational later on.
The Ann and Slang: rivers and habitat
The River Ann connects Glenealy and Rathnew with the Broadlough estuary. In Rathnew, the Ann is called the Slang. For generations, the Slang River has been a natural asset for the people of Rathnew. Today, the river provides a natural habitat for brown trout, sea trout, eels and, occasionally, salmon. The names Ann and Slang therefore refer to the same river, while the fish species mentioned illustrate its ecological significance.
Hotel history and getting there
Hunter's Hotel has been run by the same family since 1825 and is one of Ireland's oldest coaching inns. Hotel guests can stroll through the hotel's gardens; the garden walk is reserved for guests. If you would like to include it in your plans, check current access arrangements in advance.
The Wexford Bus 740A route is also relevant for getting there. It runs from Dublin Airport to Arklow, passing through Rathnew, Wicklow Town and Jack Whites. If you plan to use this service, check the latest service and timetable details before travelling.
More topics in the wider destination of County Wicklow
In the wider destination of County Wicklow, Glendalough offers a particular focus on monastic history. St Kevin founded a monastery there in the 6th century. The remains of the Monastic City include a round tower, numerous medieval stone churches and decorated crosses. Also in County Wicklow, Wicklow Mountains National Park covers 20,000 hectares and is an important recreational area for locals and tourists. The monastic heritage and expansive natural landscape offer distinct themes to explore within the region.
Kilmacurragh in County Wicklow offers further historical and botanical points of interest: a monastery stood there in the 7th century. A 21-hectare part of the former Kilmacurragh Demesne became part of the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland in 1996. Rhododendron Week at Kilmacurragh takes place every April; check the specific dates before your trip.
Mount Usher Gardens in the village of Ashford are another garden attraction in County Wicklow. The gardens extend over 22 acres along the River Vartry and are an example of Robinsonian-style planting. County Wicklow has more than 50 walking trails, which can be selected by length, location, type, theme and difficulty. As routes may be added or changed, check the current selection before planning around them.
Discover more destinations: Kilmacanoge, Tulfarris Holiday Village, Greystones, Bray, Hollywood, Tinahely, Woodenbridge, Baltinglass.
Back to the wider travel overview: County Wicklow.
