Glendalough Cathedral

Stone ruins of a monastic settlement originally built in the 6th century by St. Kevin.

Site Details

Glendalough Cathedral, located in the scenic Glendalough Valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a significant religious site with deep historical roots. While the exact saint associated with the cathedral is not definitively known, it is closely tied to the monastic settlement founded by Saint Kevin in the 6th century. The cathedral, part of the larger monastic city, served as a center of worship and pilgrimage for centuries. Its ruins, including the nave and chancel, reflect the architectural style of the early medieval period. Pilgrims visit Glendalough Cathedral to connect with Ireland’s rich Christian heritage and to experience the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient site. The surrounding valley, with its lakes and natural beauty, enhances the sense of tranquility and reflection, making it a meaningful destination for those seeking spiritual renewal and historical insight.

Location

Travel Guide for Glendalough Cathedral

Planning a pilgrimage to Glendalough Cathedral? Glendalough Cathedral, located in the scenic Glendalough Valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a significant religious site with deep historical roots. Explore how to get to Glendalough Cathedral, where to stay, and the best attractions.

Nearest Airport to Glendalough Cathedral

Dublin Airport (DUB), approximately 70km

Top Attraction at Glendalough Cathedral

St. Kevin's Kitchen

Best Time to Visit Glendalough Cathedral

Spring: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, wildflowers blooming, some services may have limited hours

Nearest Station to Glendalough Cathedral

Wicklow Train Station, approximately 20km

How to Get to Glendalough Cathedral: Transportation Guide

From Dublin Airport: Take the Aircoach or a taxi to Dublin city centre.

Getting There:

From Dublin Airport: Take the Aircoach or a taxi to Dublin city centre. Then, take a bus (e.g., Aircoach, Bus Éireann) to Wicklow Town. From Wicklow Town, take a local bus or taxi to Glendalough. Driving is also an option, taking approximately 1.5-2 hours from Dublin.

Nearest Airport: Dublin Airport (DUB), approximately 70km

Nearest Train Station: Wicklow Train Station, approximately 20km

Local Transportation:

Bus Éireann operates bus services to Glendalough from Wicklow Town and other nearby towns. Check their website for schedules and routes.
Taxis are available in Wicklow Town and can be pre-booked or hailed. Expect higher fares from Wicklow to Glendalough.
Car rental agencies are available at Dublin Airport and in Wicklow Town.
Glendalough Monastery and Cathedral are within walking distance of each other once you arrive at the visitor centre. The valley has many walking trails, some steep.

Parking Tips:

A large car park is available near the Glendalough visitor centre. Fees apply. Parking spaces can fill up, especially during peak season.

Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season. Consider carpooling if possible.

Location: Ireland

Where to Stay and Eat Near Glendalough Cathedral

Find places like Glendalough Hotel to stay and eat near Glendalough Cathedral.

Nearby Lodging

Glendalough Hotel

(hotel)

Distance: 2 km

Laragh Lodge

(guesthouse)

Distance: 5 km

Wicklow Heather

(hotel)

Distance: 8 km

Nearby Eateries

The Glendalough Hotel Restaurant

Tags: local cuisine, seafood

The Wicklow Heather Restaurant

Tags: traditional Irish, vegetarian-friendly

Laragh Village Pub

Tags: pub food, casual dining

The Wicklow Brewery & Restaurant

Tags: pub food, craft beer, vegetarian options

Pilgrim Hostels

Information on pilgrim hostels in the area is limited. Contact the local parish or diocese for potential options or consider booking accommodation in nearby towns.

Found a great place to stay near Glendalough Cathedral?Share your recommendations!

Best Time to Visit Glendalough Cathedral for Pilgrimage

Spring: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, wildflowers blooming, some services may have limited hours... Learn the best time to visit Glendalough Cathedral.

Spring

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, wildflowers blooming, some services may have limited hours.

Summer

Warmest weather, most crowded, longest daylight hours, ideal for hiking, many services and events.

Autumn

Mild weather, fewer crowds than summer, beautiful fall foliage, some services may have limited hours.

Winter

Cold and potentially wet weather, fewest crowds, shortest daylight hours, some services may be limited or cancelled, access may be affected by snow.

Top Things to Do Near Glendalough Cathedral

Discover attractions like St. Kevin's Kitchen near Glendalough Cathedral.

Religious Sites Near Glendalough Cathedral

St. Kevin's Kitchen

Small monastic building, part of the Glendalough monastic settlement.

St. Kevin's Kitchen, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Glendalough Monastic Site

Extensive ruins of a medieval monastic settlement, including several churches and other structures.

Glendalough Monastic Site, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Our Lady's Church, Laragh

A nearby Catholic church in the village of Laragh.

Our Lady's Church, Laragh, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Cultural Sites Near Glendalough Cathedral

Glendalough Monastic Site (overall)

Historical site with significant archaeological and architectural importance.

Glendalough Monastic Site (overall), a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Glendalough Visitor Centre

Provides information about the history and ecology of the Glendalough valley.

Glendalough Visitor Centre, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Wicklow Mountains National Park

The valley is part of this larger national park, offering various historical and cultural trails.

Wicklow Mountains National Park, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Nature Spots Near Glendalough Cathedral

Upper Lake, Glendalough

Scenic glacial lake offering walking trails and stunning views.

Upper Lake, Glendalough, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Lower Lake, Glendalough

Another beautiful glacial lake, popular for walks and picnics.

Lower Lake, Glendalough, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Spinc of Glendalough

A mountain offering hiking trails with panoramic views.

Spinc of Glendalough, a notable attraction near Glendalough Cathedral in .

Planning to visit St. Kevin's Kitchen at Glendalough Cathedral?Check for detailed guides.

Visitor Tips for Glendalough Cathedral

Glendalough Cathedral, located in the heart of the Glendalough monastic site in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a historic and spiritual destination... Read visitor tips for Glendalough Cathedral.

Glendalough Cathedral, located in the heart of the Glendalough monastic site in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a historic and spiritual destination. The site is accessible year-round, with no admission fee, though donations are appreciated to support its preservation. Visiting hours typically run from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily, but these may vary seasonally, so checking ahead is recommended. The cathedral is part of a larger monastic complex, and visitors can explore the ruins, including the iconic round tower and ancient crosses. While regular Mass services are not held at the cathedral, nearby St. Kevin’s Church in Laragh offers daily Mass for pilgrims. The site is open to all visitors, and modest attire is encouraged out of respect for its sacred nature. Parking is available nearby, and the area is wheelchair accessible, though some uneven terrain may require assistance. Glendalough Cathedral provides a serene setting for reflection and connection to Ireland’s rich Christian heritage.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Glendalough Cathedral

Associated Saints

St. Kevin

Ireland | Laity

St. Kevin was the founder of Glendalough Monastery and is known for his ascetic lifestyle and dedication to prayer.

Jun 3

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Explore Glendalough Cathedral Further

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Glendalough Cathedral

Site Details

Introduction

History

Architecture

Cultural Significance

Visitor Tips

Location

Travel Guide for Glendalough Cathedral

How to Get to Glendalough Cathedral: Transportation Guide

Where to Stay and Eat Near Glendalough Cathedral

Best Time to Visit Glendalough Cathedral for Pilgrimage

Top Things to Do Near Glendalough Cathedral

Visitor Tips for Glendalough Cathedral

Frequently Asked Questions about Glendalough Cathedral

How do I get to Glendalough Cathedral?

What are the best things to do near Glendalough Cathedral?

When is the best time to visit Glendalough Cathedral?

What is the history of Glendalough Cathedral?

Why is Glendalough Cathedral culturally significant?

Associated Saints