Powerscourt Waterfall, A Kids-Friendly Trip

Powerscourt Waterfall is Ireland’s highest at 398ft. (121m) located on the river Dargle in County Wicklow (near Enniskerry). The waterfall is 3.7 miles (6km) away from the Main Powerscourt Estate and has a separate visitors entrance. The Powerscourt Estate advises to take a car or a taxi rather than walking from the Estate as there are no footpaths for part of the journey, which might be particularly difficult if you have a buggy with you.

Located just 3 miles (5km) away from the Powerscourt Gardens which were voted number 3 in Top 10 Gardens from National Geographic!

Powerscourt Waterfall In History

When King George IV was visiting Ireland in 1821, Richard Wingfield, 5th Viscount of Powerscourt decided to dam the waterfall to create a torrent of water. He then built a viewing platform for the King near the top of the waterfall. When the waters were released the platform was swiftly washed away. However, the King simply did not leave the banquet in the Powerscourt House, and thus avoided a tragedy.

Nature

The attraction is located in one of Ireland’s most beautiful parkland at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains.

The surrounding trees: Beeches, Oaks, Larches, Pines and  Giant Redwoods (some planted over 2 centuries ago!) are home to  many different species of birds and red squirrels. If you watch carefully you might be able to spot Chaffinch, Cuckoo, Raven and Willow Warbler. And if you are very lucky you can sometimes see a Sika Deer!

Facilities

Powerscourt waterfall in co Wicklow

This is the perfect place for picnics and barbecues with lots of space to run around and a playground for the youngsters.

There is also kiosk on site, where  you can buy  hot coffee, tea, hot-dogs, ice-cream and more.

Kiosk opening times:

June to August – everyday

September to May – weekends (if weather permits)

Also plenty of parking space and toilet facilities – most important facility of all!

You can also bring the family dog but remember that it must be kept on a leash.

Ticket Prices

• Adults €6
• Students and OAP (Old Age Pensioners – yay grandparents get a discount!) €5.50
• Children (U12) €3.50, children (U2) Free

Book Your Tickets Here

Opening Times

Annual Memebership

• Annual passes allow unlimited entry to Powerscourt Estate, Gardens and Waterfall during normal opening hours.
• Members can also enjoy exclusive access to Powerscourt River Walk featuring 3 km of tranquil pathways and secret woodland trails. The River Walk’s main pathway was laid in 1868 by the Viscount of Powerscourt so that his family could enjoy the serenity of the River Dargle.
• Individual membership costs €95.00 and family membership costs €165.00 for two adults and up to four children. To purchase your annual pass please call into the reception at Powerscourt House or at the Gatelodge at the Waterfall entrance.

Directions

The Waterfall is located 6km from Powerscourt Estate. From Dublin City and Wexford take Exit 8. After 2 km take the first left towards Enniskerry and follow the signs for Powerscourt Waterfall.

Location