Parking In Glendalough
Glendalough is the most visited site within the National Park. In sunny weather, especially at the weekends, traffic and parking can be an issue.
There are three public car parks that serve the valley.
Wicklow County Council operate a FREE car park in Laragh, beside the Woollen Mills and the G.A.A. pitch. There is a 3 km walk through the woods along the Green Road to reach the Upper Lake and the National Park Information Office.
The OPW have a car park at their Visitor Centre beside the Monastic City. This car park is managed by APCOA. Machine payment for parking is by coin or card. Opening hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. From the Visitor Centre to the Upper Lake involves a 20 minute walk along the Green Road or the Lower Lake boardwalk.
The Upper Lake car park is located right at the end of the road into the valley. Be warned, if this car park is full, you could be stuck in long queues on a narrow road. This car park is managed by Wicklow County Council. There is a parking charge at the entrance.
Please be aware of the double yellow lines along the road to the Upper Lake. Parking is not permitted along this road. Cars parked illegally are liable to be towed or ticketed. This road is a vital access route for emergency services to the valley and must be kept clear at all times.
Glendalough is a stunning site and well worth a visit, however, if all the car parks are full you may prefer to turn around rather than sit for an hour in a queue.