The Murrough Wetlands - Wicklow Town

Did you know that The Murrough, Wicklow Town, as well as being a well-used and well-loved amenity is also the largest wetland complex on the East Coast of Ireland and is of enormous significance for wildlife? Furthermore the name is thought to have come from the Irish word ‘murbach’ meaning a salt marsh by the sea.

Visitors Guide

A new visitor’s guide to the Murrough produced jointly by Birdwatch Ireland and Wicklow County Council provides a host of information for locals and visitors alike about this special place, and provided a map showing you trails, highlights and transport links. The Murrough extends some 15 kms along the coast and includes Broad Lough, East Coast Nature Reserve and Kilcoole Marshes. With public car parks at Wicklow Town and Kilcoole train station; there are few other places so easily accessible for those with an interest in wildlife.

A Place for All Seasons

As the Summer months approach the following are some highlights to look out for look for on your rambles; the colourful wildflower display of Red Clover, Birds Foot Trefoil, Rest-harrow, Yellow Horned Poppies and Pyramidal Orchids along the Murrough grassland; Lizards basking on the sun warmed boulders; Emperor dragonflies at BWI’s East Coast Reserve and the Little Tern Colony south of Kilcoole where you can talk to the wardens and find out more about this valuable bird conservation project.

Over the Autumn and Winter keep an eye out for Brent and Greylag geese feeding in nearby fields, listen out for the trumpeting call of Whooper swans or you might even be lucky enough to glimpse an otter feeding and diving.

The publication of the Visitors Guide was funded by Wicklow County Council and The Heritage Council as an action of the County Wicklow Heritage Plan / County Biodiversity Plan. Copies are available free of charge at local tourist , council and BWI offices of can be viewed as pdf below. Happy Exploring!