Welcome to our new look

The Wicklow Way Website is a website dedicated to supplying local wicklow information and interactive services to the local community. Our motto is Living Life The Wicklow Way…

Brought to you by Roz Kelly and Skippy the Dog, we offer fresh news on events taking place in the area, local information on all the towns and villages of county wicklow  plus we also have an online business directory to which you can add your business, club or organisation ( as long as it is Wicklow based) plus you can view our wicklow galleries and videos or indeed connect and chat with other wicklow folk on our forums.

We are always happy to hear feedback and indeed we would especially like feedback on the new site layout (January 2009) so please feel free to email suggestions, topics you would like included, your community news or upcoming events etc etc to :
office@thewicklowway.ie

Walking in Powerscourt & Clone Woods with Hilltop Treks October 2008

Wicklow Way Walk – Clonegal to Shillelagh – September 2008

Sunday Stroll Thru Wicklow Town September 2008

Wicklow Landscapes:

Skippys Broken Paw gallery – wish I’d had PetPlan now!!

Things to do in Wicklow Introduction

Living in Wicklow can be a full and interesting way to live – however it can also be difficult if your new to the area.

Thus we here at The Wicklow Way.ie (of Living)

have tried to help you find out

• What is on,
• Where it is on,
• Who is likely to be there,
• When is it and
• Why the heck should you bother goin anyway?!!!

  For example the recently opened GREYSTONES THEATRE is attracting many music and culture lovers to its exciting nights and you can become a patron of theirs for as little as €50 per month which will ensure you always have a ticket to the best gig in town!!

Joining a club is a great way to meet like-minded people – and the sooner you join the sooner you have an outlet to enjoy your free time – after all, what do we work for but to be able to enjoy our free time.

Some people may find the idea of joining a club a bit daunting  so we also recommend places to go walking, nice places to eat or relax and you can join in our online forums to find whatever it is that you would prefer to do – why not start up a club of your own – use the forums here on The Wicklow Way.ie!

Single parents can benefit enormously form networking with other parents and organising school transport, morning care, evening babysitters – all to make life easier for each and every one.

So get to it and start Living Life The Wicklow Way!

Roz & Skippy the dog xx

If you have a club or idea that you would like to add to this section just email us the details to office@thewicklowway.ie and we will be delighted to highlight it for you free of charge!

Review of:
Bates Restaurant,

(Beside the Cartoon Inn)
Rathdrum,
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 404 29988

Bates restaurant situated down the scenic cobblestone lane beside the Cartoon Inn in Rathdrum town, Co Wicklow was the location for our family get together last week.

Tempting though it is to heap praise without negative opinions, we have promised to keep our reviews as honest as possible so here goes:

Bates restaurant have recently celebrated their First Anniversary and to coincide they have created a new mouth watering menu with plenty of options to suit both the meat lover and the vegetarian.

The night in question was a quiet midweek night thus we had no trouble choosing a seat (we had booked), however, the background music was a bit um..odd. Sort of quiet techno all night. Having said that I think someone forgot to change it as, having been there last Spring the music was much mellower. But perhaps I am getting old?

Never mind that though, the food , my friends, the food!
Between the four of us we shared our plates in order to get a taste of as many dishes as possible including:

• wild mushrooms on toast -mmmm,
• lobster risotto,
• seafood chowder,
• seafood salad,
• goats cheese,
• pork with crackling
• turbot in a brown butter sauce.

Suffice to say the entire meal was delicious with everyone happy with their choice.

We also had a bottle of fine South African wine, an Italian beer and a Brandy in a heated glass.

Total cost including optional 15% tip came in under €180 for four adults.

We at www.thewicklowway.ie would highly recommend Bates Restaurant in Rathdrum for a special evening out preferably at the weekend when it is at it’s livliest.

Oh yes, they had a very sexy dish for meat lovers with fillet steak (for two) cooked rare only and served at the table with Bernaise sauce and more, which sounded like a very intimate experience to try. next time…

It is neccessary to book in advance so do telephone them on +353 (0) 404 29988

Restaurants in Wicklow ~ Skippy The Dog Knows Good Food!

wicklow town restaurants

China Chef Restaurant + Takeaway

Sth quay Wicklow , Wicklow Town Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 62400 Fast Takeaway Service – Clean and Friendly

Donelli’s Cafe

Market Square, Wicklow Town Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 61333 Sit outside for coffee- lovely upstairs too

Grand Hotel The (Wicklow) Al Mondo Restaurant

Wicklow Town, Co. Wicklow Tel: +353 (0)404 673 Good Food..Drinks can be had from the bar also.

Jack Whites Inn & Restaurant

Jack Whites Cross Off N11 / M50 Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 47106 Famous Pub – Great For Large Group Bookings!

Leitrim Bar & Lounge

15 Leitrim pl, Wicklow, Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 6 7443 Carvery – Good Pint with your Food

Lil Doyle’s

Restaurant

Barndarrig, Kilbride, Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 48111 Homely Atmosphere – Cosy with Bar

Organic Life

Restaurant

Tinna Park, Kilpeddar, Co.Wicklow Tel: 01 2011882 You are what you eat…

Oriental Castle Restaurant

Market Square Wicklow, Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 69666 Quaint Decor – High Quality Food

Pings Chinese Restaurant (Wicklow)

The Mall Main st Wicklow Town Wicklow, Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 62763 Friendly busy comfortable Restaurant – Great Food! Late Serving.

Strawberry Tree (The) Restaurant

Brooklodge Hotel Maccreddin Aughrim Co Wicklow Ireland Tel: +353 402 36444 Fax: +353 402 36580 Email: brooklodge@macreddin.ie Web: www.brooklodge.com Ireland’s only certified organic restaurant,The Strawberry Tree is an experience not to be missed! Click here to view a sample menu >>>

Square Steakhouse

Market Square, Wicklow, Co. Wicklow Tel: 0404 6 6422 Great Steaks, Wine and Pints of the black stuff plus Heineken.

Hillwalking in Wicklow

Walking Groups in Wicklow and Wexford

if you love nature, want to keep fit, and like to socialise than joining a local walking group may be just the thing for you. If you fancy starting up a group then why not reach out for other members on our forums ?

You may be suprised how many mums just want to meet up with others for short walks round the county. Get Out There- You Only Live Once!!!

The following website offers information on the nearest walking group to you so check it out now. www.mountaineering.ie

Check out our Big Walk Blog from The Wicklow Way Trail

We are very pleased to have help in organising this from Christopher Stacey of Footfalls mountain tours. see his website; www.walkinghikingireland.com for more details and sample itineraries.

Hilltop treks are organising some fun walks

this December so put these in your diary now!! We plan to be on the full moon walk ourselves so see you there!

Come along on our Full Moon Walk on December 12th

This particular walk will start from the Glendalough Hotel at 7 p.m. on that Friday night.

All are welcome.

The walk is not too difficult but will give you excellent views over the Glendalough Valley. It will be along a trail for the majority of the walk. It will last between 3 and 4 hours.

You will be expected to bring your normal day pack hiking trip along with a head torch.

Raingear as always is essential and a good pair of walking boots. Bring along an extra fleece for extra warmth.

A hot drink should be brought along as well as we will be stopping along the way.

Booking is essential for these walks so get in early.

For more details and booking click here

Plus closer to Christmas:

Christmas Walk Sun 21^st December

It’s that time of year again Santa’s on the way, the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and all the eating and drinking too much is starting to take its toll.

So why not get away from the Christmas madness for a few hours and unwind with a walk in Wicklow.

With it being Christmas time we will have a festive theme on this walk, mulled wine and mince pies to help you on your way.

Hopefully the Mulled wine will be warm by the time we get to drink it.

This will be a 3-4 hr moderate walk. For more details and booking click here

The price for this walk will be just €25 and it’s important to book early as places will be limited.

Coming Up- Deer Walk in Glendalough

Saturday 18th October 2008 Deer Walk in Glendalough

Giving you plenty of time to plan the day!

Telescopes will be set up between 11am and 4pm with guides on hand to chat and answer your questions about the glens’ famous deer. Call into the information office for directions to the telescopes, this is a small change from previous years where guides used to escort you- however, just wear appropriate clothing and bring a warm drink and food. Its lots of fun and I intend to be there!!
But do bear in mind that it’s rutting season so don’t get too close to a Stag!!

For more details go to www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie

Rosa & Skippy the dog

xx

Tags: deer walk glendalough

If your looking to join a walking group for hill walking and coastal walking in wicklow and wexford then check out this september / october walking schedule from the wexford hillwalking club. We’re getting our hiking boots on!!
Click to view walk-schedule-july-to-october-08

Here’s the link to the mountaineering council of Ireland (MCI) ‘find your nearest club’ page:
http://www.mountaineering.ie/nearestclub/index.asp

Or if you live closer to Dublin but love walking wicklow then contact Terry at www.hilltoptreks.ie

See his recent Charity walk photos for the Irish Heart Foundation below:

Our BIG WALK:

WELL! how fit are those hillwalking guys?!!!

HillWalking is best done in Threes

we started this morning meeting up at the filling station in Shillelagh Co Wicklow, yours truly, Christopher, Teresa and Paul. Christopher drove us to the Clonegal starting point of the wicklow way walk. At one junction there was no sign so we turned left after pondering Teresas’ map – This was the correct decision!

Christopher beeped bye and left Teresa, Paul and I there to begin our walking of the wicklow way at Clonegal.

The start of the walk was mainly road walking which I was assured was hard on the legs. They were quiet country roads and pleasant to walk on. After awhile we turned off the roads to the right onto tracks. This area was a nature reserve and was an oasis of peace and quiet. Each of us were left to our own thoughts as we methodically walked uphill in the SCORCHING day!!

Oh, didn’t I mention the weather. phew. my god, my factor 30 generously applied reguarly was still not enough of a barrier to that hot hot sun beating down on us.

Look for signposts hidden in the bushes

I must admit there was a point here when I kept thinking of how nice it would be to be swimming in the lovely cold Irish sea and why was I putting myself through this hardship on my holidays etc etc… but then we reached the top and had a moments rest and whatddya know – everything was rosy again!

During one of my chats with Teresa she told me about how Footfalls and Walking Hiking Ireland got started.

Apparently Christopher used to work in Forestry and always had a love for the land. Once when out walking with a local youth club and their leaders Christopher sensed that they were taking the wrong route – towards an upcoming cliff no less!! and when he pointed this put to the leaders they checked their map positioning only to discover that he was indeed right and so veered the youngsters away from impending doom and back to the safety of the correct route. (phew!)

These Signs are often hidden so search before you turn

This got Christopher thinking – he would like to learn to read a map etc and so he took part in various mountain skills courses and found that he was a natural.

Years later he has qualified to teach mountain skills and is very comfortable leading groups across the mountains – and believe me you will feel safe and sound in his presence. His company Footfalls Holidays has organically grown into a busy friendly business doing what Christopher and Teresa love best – Sharing a love for hill walking.

For details on the routes and packages available visit their website www.walkinghikingireland.com and If you tell them that we sent you (the wicklow way.ie) you will receive a 10% discount on your booking!

Well folks, I gotta admit that I thoroughly enjoyed the day however, I kept thinking about poor Skippy and how I really ought to take him out for shorter walks on these few free days off. so, I am leaving the rest of the wicklow way walks to the guys whilst Skippy and I spend some quality wicklow time together and go visit some of Wicklows most popular attractions and get the lowdown for you all. If there is somewhere you would particuarly like to have visited / reviewed send me an email or comment on this blog.

Finally I would like to say a VERY BIG THANK YOU so much to Teresa, Paul and Christopher for their guidance and advice today – Best of luck with everything and ENJOY CANADA you lucky lucky folk!

VISIT OUR GALLERY OF THE DAY HERE >>>

E: office@thewicklowway.ie

(a very tired) Roz and Skippy
x

Skippys Favourite Food

Send In Your Favourite Recipe and Share The Love!!

PORK WITH CIDER:

We made this on a cold january evening last year and by golly was it gorgeous! Definately one to try for a lavishly tasty meal without costing too much! And its really not that hard I swear!
Takes about 45 mins to prepare and cook in total, serves 4
Note: whilst the dish is made more exciting with the brandy it can be made without – still very tasty! Need an oven and a hob...

Ingredients:

25g (1 oz/ 2 tablespoons) butter
4 pork chops
1 onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons brandy
300 ml (10 fl oz/ 1 and quarter cups) dry cider
1 bay leaf
salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 small cooking apples, peeled, cored and sliced ( cored – no middle part)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons creme fraiche or thick sour cream
thyme sprigs and leaves to garnish

Step 1:

• Heat butter in heavy flameproof csserole ( well, we just used our regular old casserole dish!)

• Add chops, cook quickly till browned on both sides, remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 2:

• Preheat oven to 180C (350F/ Gas mark 4)
• Add onion to casserole dish and cook, stirring occasionally till soft.
• Add brandy and set alight- oooh the excitement, i feel like Gordan ramsay!
• When flames die down, stir in cider and bring to boil.
• Return chops to casserole
• Add bay leaf, salt and pepper
• Cover tightly and cook in oven for 20 minutes

Step 3:

• Toss apples in lemon juice
• Warm up your plates in oven for later – (see below)
• Add to casserole and cook for 10-15 mins
• Remove pork and apples from casserole with a slotted spoon (keeps juices in the casserole dish). transfer to warmed plates and keep warm
• Boil rest of the cooking liquid until lightly syrupy (back on hob)
• Stir in Creme fraiche or thinck sour cream
• Pour the lot over the pork and apples, garnish with thyme and serve!

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

CODDLE:

Coddle was a firm favourite in Ireland particuarly in Dublin city in the 1950’s. The main reason for this was that it was cheap and easy to make lots of . Bear in mind that back then Dublin had many sheep and cows being farned in the area so access to pigmeat was easy. Also, being a Catholic country Dublin families were usually rather large – that’s a lotta mouths to feed!

Ingredients:

Pork Sausages
Rashers (Bacon)
Onions – 1 or 2
Potatoes

Method:

• Throw the lot in a big pot
• Fill the pot with water
• Bring to the Boil
• Cook over a low heat – simmering, until the potatoes are cooked
• The potatoes usually go a bit mushy – this makes the ‘coddle ‘ texture
• Eat it all up!

It tastes a lot better than it sounds – rather salty too. mmm,

Irish Lamb / Beef Stew

With the lack of sunshine and abundance of rainy wet weather in Ireland it is no suprise that Stew is a regular feature on many the Irish Families’ weekly meal list. Indeed there is nothing more welcoming after a hard days work -especially if you work outdoors, or after an outdoor hike, than to come home to a warm stew!!

Ingredients

1 and a half pounds stewing pieces (lamb or beef)  or whatever you think you need
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 or 2 large onion, peeled and finely chopped
1/2 cup water
4 cups beef stock
chopped carrots – 4/5 carrots,
As many as you think you need potatoes, peeled,and quartered,
1 teaspoon dried thyme, whole
1 bay leaf
chopped parsley

Method:

• Brown the meat in a pan first.
• Transfer the browned meat to a casserole dish
• Add the carrots, onions,seasoning and herbs and stock mix.
• Cover with water.
• Cover and simmer for 1-1/2 hours, or until tender.

Not as fancy as some chefs but my mums stew rocks!! Plus it’s even nicer the next day when you reheat it

• Would you be interested in writing up your clubs sport information on our Blog online here at the wicklow way? Contact us: office@thewicklowway.ie
• Baltinglass GAA are Online – www.baltinglassgaa.com and you can now support them no matter how far from home with their online lotto. You can also download their crest to your mobile phone – just see site for details…pass it on.
• Polo Wicklow (Wicklow Polo Club)
  Britttas Bay Road,
  Wicklow Town
  E:herbst@herbst.ie
  Web: www.herbst.ie/ polo

  “Polo takes place every weekend at 3pm and on Wednesdays for beginners and young horses at 5.30pm.
  Polo Wicklow has full facilities for newcomers and visitors, with polo lessons and polo courses available and well as horse rental for chukkas, we have everything you need all under one roof.
  Pavilion membership is available for those that want to watch or Players membership for those that want to take part.”

  Check out their website here for more information on this exciting sport >>>

• Wicklow Tennis Club
  Wicklow Town
  Co Wicklow
  E: info@wicklowtennisclub.com
  Web: www.wicklowtennisclub.com

  Why not join up with the latest craze of Cardio Tennis to get fit, keep healthy, have fun and meet new people in wicklow? Check out Wicklow Tennis Clubs Website for information (they are situated just across the road from the Grand Hotel In Wicklow Town.

Taxi Services in Wicklow town:

66100 Cabs
58 Main Street,
Wicklow Town
Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 404 66100

If you have a taxi service in county wicklow why not email us your details and improve your customer base? Its free!

office@thewicklowway.ie

Pubs & Bars in Wicklow:

Wicklow offers a variety of pubs and bars some serving Lunch, Bar Food and others with live music and/ or entertainment such as Poker nights, Karaoke, Comedy, Table Quiz’s and much more.

Nel Keenans – The Olde Forge

Wicklow Town
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 404 67032

Recently renovated and under new management this comfortable traditional style pub is a welcoming and well known pub and bar right in the heart of Wicklow Town.

Open late on Thurs, Fridays and Saturdays till 2 am, This bar offers an alternative venue for clubbing in Wicklow with its nightclub offering mixed sets on Fri and Sunday nights suited to all ages, and the more dance orientated music upstairs in the nightclub on Saturdays.

Jack Whites Pub And Restaurant

Off the N11 to Wexford from Dublin
Brittas
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 404 47106

Jack Whites pub is an infamous stop off point for motorists travelling to and from Wexford and Dublin along the N11 / M50 motorway. With a murky past of murder the pub is now in safer hands and offers the visitor great food at reasonable prices you can rely on.

Jacobs Well

Rathdrum Main Street
Rathdrum
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 404 46282

Jacobs Well has been recently renovated and offers great food and a welcoming atmosphere to locals and visitors alike. Situated in the pretty growing town of Rathdrum, Helen and Noel Jacob will ensure that your visit is a memorable one.

Winner of Black & White pub of the year on numerous occasions, you can rest assured on quality service with a smile! Jacobs cater for functions such as 21st birthdays and 40ths etc so why not give them a call and celebrate in style.

Ernies Bar

Market Square
Wicklow Town
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 404 20877

Ernies bar is a popular haunt for sports lovers to watch the games on the big screen. Serving lunch 12-3pm Mon to Sat including Bank Holidays.

They also offer Live music & a late bar on weekends. Upstairs function room available for hire also

Chester Beattys

(The Chester Beatty Inn)
Ashford
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 404 40206

Old world charm with modern service, Chester Beattys pub is a cosy and friendly place to enjoy a pint of the black stuff! Serving food in the lounge and with accommodation available why not make a night of it?

Hey, you can even pop across to Clouseaus nightclub if your in the dancing mood!

Jay K’s

5 Main St
Arklow
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 402 32253

Offering a new and extensive menu this comfortable bar is the place to go for a bite to eat or just a relaxing pint and a chat. Live music at weekends.

Wicklow  Estate Agents, Auctioneers Valuers

Looking for an estate agent, auctioneers or valuers in wicklow? Need to get your house valued? Local Auctioneer information needed?

Mitchell Quinn Property Partners

20 Main Street
Bray
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 1 2828590
Email: hq@propertypartners.ie
Web: www.propertypartners.ie

Anne Lait Auctioneers

Rathnew
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 404 25600
Email: property@annelait.ie
Web: www.annelait.ie

Harrington Auctioneers

Wentworth Place
Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 404 67929
Email: N/A
Web: N/A

MD Auctioneers

Dunlavin
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 45 401554
Email: N/A
Web: N/A

PV Byrne Auctioneers

23 Upper Main Street,
Arklow
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 402 29396
Fax: +353 (0) 402 29397
Email: pbyrneauctioneers@eircom.net
Web: www.pvbyrne.ie (via estateagent.ie)

Kinsella Estates Ltd

Main street,
Carnew,
Co. Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 53 94 26280
Email: carnew@kinsellaestates.ie .
Web: www.kinsellaestates.ie

4 St. Michaels road,
Gorey,
Co. Wexford
Tel: +353 (0) 53 94 21718
Email: gorey@kinsellaestates.ie
Web: www.kinsellaestates.ie

Keating Somers Limited

Auctioneers, Valuers & Estate Agents,
9 Main Street,
Arklow
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 402 20066
Fax: +353 (0) 402 20552
Email:info@keatingsomers.ie
Web: www.keatingsomers.ie

Sherry Fitzgerald

Bray, Greystones, Arklow, Wicklow
Co Wicklow
Web: www.sherryfitz.ie

Regional Offices:
Town Hall Centre,
Bray,
Co. Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0)1 286 6630
Fax: +353 (0)1 286 7501
Email: bray@sherryfitz.ie
Web: www.sherryfitz.ie

Greystones
Unit 10,
Meridian Place,
Greystones
Co Wicklow

Tel:+353 (0) 1 2590499
Email: Greystones@sherryfitz.ie
Web: www.sherryfitz.ie

SF Myles Doyle

45 Main Street,
Arklow,
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 402 32367
Fax: +353 (0) 402 31158
Email: info@sherryfitzmylesdoyle.com
Web: www.sherryfitz.ie

SF O’Gorman
Fitzwilliam Square,
Wicklow Town,
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 404 66466
Fax:+353 (0) 404 68443
Email: info@sherryfitzogorman.com
Web: www.sherryfitz.ie

Dooley Poynton – Estate Agents / Valuers

25 main street,
Wicklow Town

Tel: +353 (0) 404 62292
Fax: +353 (0) 404-62293
Email:
General Enquires: dooleypoynton@eircom.net
Residential Property Enquires: residential@wicklowproperty.com
Commercial Property Enquires: commercial@wicklowproperty.com
Web: www.wicklowproperty.com

Looking to move further South? Other Estate Agents toward Wexford Include:

Dolores Power

98 South Main Street
Wexford

Tel: +353 53 9170077
Email: info@powerproperty.net
Web: www.powerproperty.com

John Keane & Co. Auctioneers,

Custom House Quay,
Wexford

Tel: +353 (0)53 91 23072 / 91 23411
Fax: +353 (0) 53 91 23371
Email: info@keaneauctioneers.com
Web: www.keaneauctioneers.com

J Mc Donald Property Consultants

MyNewHome.ie
7A Main Street
Gorey
Co Wexford
Ireland

Tel: +353 (0) 53 9484218
Mob: +353 (0) 87 2923603
Email: info@mynewhome.ie
Web: www.mynewhome.ie

Jimmy and Carmel offer local independent knowledge & advice on houses for sale and land lettings in the gorey, wexford and surrounding areas. Call today for a Free valuation.

Kehoe Auctioneers

Commercial Quay,
Wexford

Tel: +353 (0) 53 9144393
Fax: +353 (0) 53 9123021
Email: info@kehoeproperty.com
Web: www.kehoeproperty.com

Warren Estates

Gorey & Enniscorthy
82 Main Street,
Gorey,
Co.Wexford
Tel: +353 (0) 53 94 21211
Fax: +353 (0) 53 94 20279
Email: property@warrenestates.com
Web: www.warrenestates.com

Castlehill,
Enniscorthy,
Co.Wexford
Tel: +353(0) 53 92 33153
Fax: +353 (0) 53 92 36005
Email: info@warrenestates.com
Web: www.warrenestates.com

Not Forgetting the ever popular websites for all of Ireland Property Searches:

• www.propertyteam.ie
• www.daft.ie
• www.myhome.ie

If you would like to be listed on our property section please contact us onoffice@thewicklowway.ie

Courses in Wicklow

January 2009 Photography Courses at Brightlife Studios greystones Co Wicklow

Introduction to Photography
This course is aimed at those wishing to improve their knowledge of photography, this course offers a very hands on and practical approach to learning the basics of photography. The course will cover basic principles of exposure, composition and the use of lighting. This course will allow you to gain mastery over camera controls and functions.

An SLR style digital camera with manual controls is required for this course.
Maximum of 8 people per class
4 Week evening Course (7.30-9.00)
Starts Monday 19th January 2009
Cost €150

4 Week evening course (7.30-9.00)
Starts Tues 20th January 2009
cost €150

Introduction to Adobe Photoshop

This four week course will take you through the steps needed to successfully work with your images or art work using Adobe Photoshop in a technically proficient and creative way. The course provides the basic concepts and techniques, from getting your images off the camera into Photoshop for processing and finally printing. Over the duration of the course you will learn how to use basic image editing tools covering document settings and formats,sizing of images for various output methods, colour correction, cropping, making simple selections, retouching and an  introduction to the layers palette.

4 Week evening course (7.30-9.00)
Starts Wednesday 21st January 2009
cost €150

Improvers Photography

4 Week evening course (7.30-9.00)
Starts Thursday 22nd January 2009
More info to follow

Childrens and Teenagers Intro To Photography Courses at BrightLife

Introduction To Photography 9-12 year olds

This course offers a very hands on and practical approach to learning the basics of photography. The course will cover basic principles of exposure, composition and the use of lighting. A digital camera is required for this course.

4 Week Course saturdays 12.00-1.30
Starting Saturday 24th january 2009
Cost €150

Introduction To Photography 13-18 year olds

This course offers a very hands on and practical approach to learning the basics of photography. The course will cover basic principles of exposure, composition and the use of lighting. A digital camera is required for this course.

4 week course saturdays 2.30-4.00
Starting Saturday 24th January 2009
Cost €150
Email: info@brightlife.ie
Phone: 012871677
Website: http://www.brightlife.ie
Contact name:Rita Slattery

Markets in Wicklow

Wicklow county has a fine reputation for farmers markets.

Offering fresh locally produced products including artisan foods such as cheeses and sauces, organic fruit and vegetables, meat locally reared and much more besides…

Wicklow Town

has at last joined its many neighbours by offering the public an newly opened Saturday Market which takes place in the car park area of SuperValu Wicklow on a weeky basis – This is a growing market so if you wish to join why not pop down and have a chat?

Greystones’

Meridian Point Shopping Centre Greystones, off the main street houses a weekly Saturday Farmers Market (10am-4pm) and a weekly Sunday arts & crafts market (11am-5pm).

Maccreddin farmers market in Aughrim:

One of the most famous markets in county Wicklow perhaps due to the fabulous family friendly barbeques and entertainment provided is the Farmers Market at Maccreddin Village – home of the also well known Brooklodge Hotel and Strawberry Tree Restaurant, in Aughrim.

Laragh / Glendalough:

The brockagh Resource Centre is also the home to Farmers Market (2nd Sunday of Every Month, 11am – 4pm) and Craft Fairs throughout the year.  This is a very friendly and cosy market even in the rain as it has an indoor area with hot tea for sale and the Christmas market is especially festive!

Arklow Country Market

Country market takes place in the Masonic Hall, Ferrybank, Arklow Town, Co. Wicklow on Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.

Sweetbank Farm

Rathnew
Co Wicklow
june to Sept

A very popular and family friendly place to visit in Newcastle is Sweetbank Farm located on the road to Rathnew. This idyllic looking fruit farm offers the visitor fresh farm produce such as apple juice and jams plus seasonal treasures to buy at very reasonable prices.

The courtyard setting and lazy sun-trapped stall betray the hard work that goes on here in keeping this fruit farm alive and well. Well worth a visit by adults and children alike! For more information on Sweetbank Farm why not check out their website www.sweetbankfarm.ie

For more information on Farmers Markets throughout Ireland why not visit www.irishfarmersmarkets.ie by clicking here.

Useful Services in Wicklow

Outreach Citizens Information Services

Blessington Library – provides  info on  Social Welfare Benefits, Employment, Health, Housing, Disability, Finance Family Matters and much more – so if you have something you would like to know about contact them every Tuesday from 10.30am – 1.30pm or tel the library on 045 891740.

Horse Riding in Wicklow

One of lifes Greatest pleasures is Horse Riding and in Wicklow it’s even better…

Wicklow offers many horse riding schools and equestrian facilities for the horse lover.

But you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the experience of horse riding.  Strangley enough most people have tried horse riding at least once- consider this in comparison to say canoeing! What is it that attracts so many people to give horse riding a go?

It may have something to do with being at one with nature and one of her beasts, it may be the feeling of power in the horse or it may be the thrill of racing against the wind!

Whatever your horse riding preferences why not make a date and book up for a horse riding lesson today? One of Co Wicklows’ most prestigious riding schools is Brennanstown in Bray – Indeed my lovely friend Maja worked there for a while, and they have just put together a lovely new website that is a pleasure to surf.

So check it out now and book that horse riding lesson!

see www.brennanstownrs.ie

Fishing & Angling in Wicklow

The east coast of Ireland provides the visiting angler with a wide range of top quality game, pike, coarse and sea fishing venues.

This regions strategic location close to major airports and ferryports means that quality angling is only a one-hour drive away. This enables visiting anglers to maximise their holiday and angling time.

Salmon, sea-trout and brown trout fishing are available on a choice of rivers throughout the region. These include many excellent rivers within easy reach of Dublin.

There are also many excellent coarse fishing venues in the eastern region and these present great opportunities to the coarse angler. The Lakeland districts of Cavan, Monaghan, Meath and Westmeath boast hundreds of lakes in beautiful rural surroundings. There is no shortage of specimen fish in these many waters.

The extensive coastline from Carlingford Lough, with its terrific tope fishing; to Wexford with its fantastic flounder and fighting bass offer fantastic opportunities for all categories of sea angler.

This information has been supplied kindly by the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board who have tons of great information on fishing in Ireland. To view their website please go to:

www.fishingireland.net

The Avonmore River

Rathdrum, Co Wicklow

The Avonmore River rises at the foot of the Wicklow mountains and flows in a south easterly direction through a mountainous landscape for approximately 20 miles before joining the Avonbeg at the meeting of the waters 1.5 miles upstream of Avoca.

This river runs through plains and valleys is surrounded in some areas by forests. The river has retained its natural characteristics and is undrained. The Avonmore is made up of stretches which alternate between deep, slow flowing glides to areas of fast flowing riffle and run areas culminating in deep pools.

This beautiful river contains good stocks of wild brown trout to 8ozs, which is complimented by a stock of fish from 1lb to 1.5lbs in weight. The Avonmore also produces a number of larger fish annually and fish of 5lbs to 6lbs are recorded anually.

The best of the fishing takes place in the early season from March to May or in the late summer and early Autumn period from August to September.

The sections at Avondale Estate and Clara Vale produce good angling. The Avonmore get all the usual fly hatches including Ephemeropterans, Caddis and Diptera. The best results are obtained by wading instream.

Location: Co. Wicklow. The main towns in the area are Wicklow , Arklow , Avoca and Woodenbridge .

Season: Fishing takes place from March 15th to September 30th.

Fish Species: The Avonmore contains good stocks of wild brown trout.

Methods: Fishing must be consistent with bye laws for the time being in force as well as the current rules and regulations set out by the Angling Association and riparian owners.

Best Flies: greenwells spider, iron blue dun, silver sedge, badger quill and golden olives.

Angling Club: This water is controlled by The Rathdrum Environment and Trout Anglers Association and riparian owners

Fishing Tip: Try a gold head nymph in the early part of the season when hatches are scarce.

Permits: Permission to fish this water may be obtained from Mr. Peter Driver, Glasnorget, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow. Tel: +353 (0) 404 46304 or +353 (0) 87 9787040.

www.fishingireland.net for more information

Cinema in Wicklow

The new multi screen cinema in Arklow at the Bridgewater Centre is the talk of the town.

At last romance can re-ignite and friendships blossom as a night at the movies with your armful of popcorn beckons again..

Tired of the long drive to Dundrum, Stillorgan, Dun Laoghaire or Wexford, now we can all luxuriate in the modern social experience that is film viewing en masse!!

Lets go down to the lobby and get ourselves a treat skip!

THIS WEEKS MOVIES:
Click here to view weekly film times in arklow gaiety cinema at the bridgewater centre>>>

Gaiety Cinema Group – GCG – Arklow at the Bridgewater Centre for all up to date cinema listngs in wicklow >>>

Cinema in Wexford

The new cineplex in Wexford has recently opened on the wexford – rosslare road.

Good Parking although get there early for sunday matinees as parking ends up on the road! For Listings visit :

www.omniplex.ie

Bridgewater Shopping Centre Arklow

Shop Till You Drop at Bridgewater!

The Bridgewater Centre in Arklow showcases some of the top fashion boutiques including the lovely elegant Prinicples (party dresses with sophistication) TK Maxx- You never know what you may find – a retro funky sequinned dress perhaps or an intriguing gown with matching shoes.

For the men there are menswear boutiques such as Next, Jack and Jones and Best menswear to get you looking dandy this Christmas.

And if you wear glasses you can choose a stylish pair from Specsavers opticians.

Get your tresses dressed in style at Peter Marks hairdressing salon. Dress up your hair in a variety of sparkling and some ingenious hair accessories and matching jewellery at both Pulse and Claires accessory shops in the centre.

If your planning your Christmas Shopping gifts then pop in to visit Argos and get your Christmas Presents sorted!

And who knows you might get a diamond ring from John Swan Studios…

Top it off with a trip to the cinema and enjoy the latest movie! Bliss…. For more go to: www.bridgewatercentre.ie

Beaches in Wicklow

Close your eyes and lie back. You can hear the soothing swish of the waves lapping the shore, feel the soft sand beneath your skin and smell the fresh breeze stimulating your senses!

But your not in the Mediterranean! Its right on your doorstep – yes, winter or summer the variety of beaches in Wicklow ensure that you need never go without this experience.

There are beaches suited to walking, fishing, swimming and rock-pool exploration! Below I have listed some of my personal favourite beaches – If you would like to share one of yours please do let us know at:office@thewicklowway.ie

Brittas Bay Beach

Co Wicklow:
Best known of all the Wicklow beaches is perhaps, Brittas Bay – a beautiful sandy stretch of beach which runs for 5km. Brittas is a blue flag beach safe for swimming so children in particular love it!

It is surrounded by a few holiday mobile-home parks and has ample car-parking (at a charge since 2006) and toilet facilities. In the summer there are fast food vans so you need never go home again and just down the road there is a small mini-market if you have forgotten your suncream!

Ennereilly Beach

Co Wicklow:
Ennereilly beach is en route to Arklow and is a wonderful beach for walking, shell collecting and beach angling. There is a small parking area free of charge. You will often see washed up starfish and the occasional seal bobbing out to sea.

Johnsons Beach

Arklow
Co Wicklow:
Almost immediately after Ennereilly is a tiny parking space at the top of a steep hill which leads to another lovely beach known as Johnsons’ beach. This is particularly nice for angling and there is much driftwood lying about with which you can make a cosy seat. Obviously attention to detail and leaving no waste is a must!!

Maghermore Beach

Wicklow:
Maghermore is a family-friendly beach which has recently been a subject of intense petitioning to save the access for members of the public. It is sheltered by steep cliffs and is a safe to swim sandy beach. Many surfers like to brave the waves on a windy day. The water is crystal clear and shallow for quite a way out – perfect for small children.

A note of caution - the access is a very potholed road marked only by a small green postbox -although it may currently still be ok, however, after heavy rains you must drive very slowly.

NOTE: June 2007: Parking is on the roadside BUT Please park carefully so tractors and other cars can get by as the entrance is on a bad bend thus making it extremely dangerous. The county council may be putting double yellow lines here soon.. (long walk then)

Arts in Wicklow

With such a beautiful and varied landscape in Wicklow it is hardly surprising that wicklow is home to a wide circle of artists resulting in numerous dedicated art spaces scattered throughout the county.

Comprising of art centres, galleries,cafes and studios you can view, learn about and engage in the arts at many of the locations listed below.

If you would like to add your art club / gallery / event email us at:office@thewicklowway.ie

Wicklow County Council – www.wicklow.ie – are strong sponsors of the arts in wicklow and run a variety of artist schemes for eg: artist in residence, annual art and photography competitions and they also hold many exhibiitons.

If you have an idea that you would like to promote in the arts why not contact Jenny Sherwin at the following email: wao@wicklowcoco.ie

The Space Inside Arts Club

1st Wed in the month from Oct – June.
8pm
Wicklow Sailing Club
South Quay,
Wicklow Town.

The Space Inside runs a “Live Night” on 1st Wed in the month. Music, drama, poetry, films and visual arts are on offer. Admission free.

See their free monthly arts newsletter available from most outlets in Wicklow Town

Contact Carol at spaceinside@hotmail.com

Art Station Cafe

The Old Signal Box
The murrough,
Wicklow town
Co Wicklow
Contact Berta

Tel: 087 9324959 / 087 7670322
E: thesignalbox@yahoo.ie

open 10am-8pm Tues – Sun

The new Art Station Cafe right on the murrough – You can’t miss the big yellow flag.

Stop by for a coffee or ice cream and a chat with the lovely Berta after your walk on the murrough..

We hear there are plans for hot soup in the winter – oh how snug!

Local photography and paintings on exhibit and for sale at reasonable prices – really amazing work – perfect for restaurants!
Note- as of 2009 this may not be open early in the year due to road works in the area – we will update as soon as we know more details…

Arklow Visual Arts Centre

Main st
Arklow
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 402 33575
Email: N/A
Web: N/A

Open Monday- Friday 9.30am – 5pm Adm Free
Saturday opening dependant on exhibiitons

Arklow Fine Art Gallery

7 Lower Main St,
Arklow
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 402 39080
Email: info@arklowfineartgallery.com Web: www.arklowfineartgallery.com A fine source of paintings in Co wicklow with continuous exhibitions of the best of Irish contemporary art. Open Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5pm Saturdays 11am – 3pm Viewings of paintings can be arranged outside of these hours.

Brockagh Resource Centre

Laragh Co Wicklow Tel: +353 (0) 404 45611
Email: info@brockaghresourcecentre.com
Web: www.brockaghresourcecentre.com

Running a variety of courses throughout the year including pottery, painting, computers, keep fit and much more The brockagh Resource Centre is also the home to Farmers Market (2nd Sunday of Every Month, 11am – 4pm) and Craft Fairs throughout the year.

Conary Community Hall

Pat Nolan
Conary,
Avoca
Co Wicklow
Tel: +353 (0) 402 30802
Email: info@pat-nolan.com
Web: www.conary.net

These guys run a great film club showing indie and arthouse movies throughout the year. Contact Pat Nolan (above) for details.

Courthouse Arts Centre

Tinahely
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 402 38529
Email: tinahely@iol.ie
Web: tinahely-courthouse.ie
An exciting Arts centre based in the picturesque heritage town of Tinahely, The courthouse arts centre features dance, theatre, music, film, and art exhibitions. You can become a ‘friend ‘ of the centre for a minimal fee which entitles you to an allocation of free tickets, whats on updates and so on.. Contact Sharon Corcoran for details.

Open Tuesday – Friday 10am-5pm
Sundays 1pm-5pm DURING EXHIBITIONS ONLY

Irish School of Landscape Painting

RiverRun Studio
Nun’s Cross,
Ashford
Co Wicklow

Tel:+353 (0404) 42884 Email: susan@irishschooloflandscapepainting.com
Web: www.irishschooloflandscapepainting.com

Painting Holiday and Weekend Painting courses for artists from beginners to experienced as well as Masterclass for advanced and professional artists.

Paint in all of the finest and most beautiful locations in the Wicklow mountains.

Tutoring by the Professional artists Kenneth Webb and Susan Webb.

Kilmantin Art Gallery

T: 0404-61980
W:www.wicklowgold.com

Kilmantin Art Gallery in Abbey Street, Wicklow Town(opposite the AIB) is an organisation set up in November 1999 by a group of artists.

They have a large membership and exhibit many styles of paintings alongside woodturning items, pottery, stained glass and jewellery. There are also prints and many various styles of cards.

Opening hours are 10. 00 to 5.30 – closed for lunch 2.00 – 2.30 - Monday to Saturday, plus open for a short time on bank holidays.

Go in and browse and take away a memory!

Mermaid Arts Centre

Off Bray Main St (near mc Donalds)
Bray Town
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 1 2724030
Email:frontofhouse@mermaidartscentre.ie
Web: www.mermaidartscentre.ie

Showcasing many talents and art forms the mermaid offers something for everyone with Alternative Movies, Dance Theatre, Childrens Storytelling, Music, Drama, Art Exhibitions and much more. Check out their website above for details of Whats on now!! A great cultural trip for all the family…

Signal Arts Centre

Bray
Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 (0) 1 2762039
Email: signalartscentre@eircom.net

A chilled out and welcoming arts centre featuring work by artists within the local community who contribute to the running of the centre itself. They aim to make art accessible and enjoyable to all members of the public so why not pop in for a visit? Arts for local people by local people.