Dog-friendly Wicklow

When we bought the cottage, we knew that we really wanted to make it dog-friendly and welcome a four-legged pal into our lives. Here are some of our favourite things about the county we call home and some of our dog's favourite places to go and play and eat and smell!

Hikes

Glen of the Downs

This is such a gorgeous walk through the trees up to the Octogan with amazing views across the hills to the Sugarloaf. 

Djouce Woodlands and Mountain

This is another option if you are feeling adventurous but also a great option if you want something lower impact and walk through the woods. 

Sugarloaf Mountain

This is a great hike! Bear in mind though there are often sheep on the trail so dogs should be kept on leads!

Places to Eat

Wicklow is bursting with incredible food spots; from cozy cafés to top-notch restaurants, food trucks and markets—and the best part? Many of them welcome dogs with open arms. Some even say that the dogs are more welcome than the humans! Here are some of our favourite spots to enjoy with our furry friend Fiadh. 

Greystones

Scéal Bakery

When I say this is the most amazing bakery in the country, I am not exaggerating! This is without doubt the most delicious spot for a coffee and a pastry. And the best, best part - they are dog-friendly! We love the Apple Crumble pastry; the Almond croissants are to die for; and the Sourdough loaves are out of this world. 

Rise at the Cove

Such a lovely cafe along the sea in Greystones. Come for a coffee, pastry, or a gelato! Load of outdoor seats perfect for dogs and buggies!

Sonny's

There is outdoor seating here that's suitable for furry friends and there food is delicious so definitely worth it!

Bray

Dockyard No 8

The Dockyard has been dog-friendly since they opened. Great excuse to walk along the seafront in Bray and have a delicious lunch after to celebrate!

Harbour Bar

"Dogs are more welcome here than humans" - When I asked at the bar could I bring Fiadh inside! You don't get much more dog-friendly than that! With a great selection of beers and the Fish Box for some of the nicest fish in the town, it's one of my favourite spots in Bray!

Glenealy

Joly's Garden Centre

Such a gorgeous spot for a coffee, sandwich, and a potter around the Garden Centre. We visited when they were holding their Christmas Market and they had some wonderful live jazz music as we scoffed our Christmas sambos!

Dog Parks

Some of our favourite dog parks in or near Wicklow are:

• Greystones

  WHAT. A. VIEW! If you are looking for a dog park in Greystones, the Marina dog park is great! So good for a collie who just wants to run from one end to the other at speed! 

• Shanganagh

  While not in Wicklow, it's very close! Great walk around Shanganagh park and then a lovely dog park. Normally not too busy too which is good!