Designed by James Wyatt, in the Georgian style, Avondale House was built in 1777.
When the original owner, Samuel Hayes, died in 1795, the house and estate were passed to his cousin, Sir John Parnell. His will stated that it should always pass to a younger son of the family. Subsequently, the estate and house was handed down to John Henry Parnell, father of Charles Stewart. Avondale House and Estate was purchased by the state in 1904. Today you can visit the house and explore the story of Samuel Hayes and the Parnell Family. Learn how this special place influenced them, and the chapters they each added to the story of Ireland. You may read more here.
You should allow 1h10 by car if coming from south Dublin city (via M11). You have to pay for car parking at the barrier upon arrival (€5/car). Google Maps will guide you there.
Rathdrum is accessible by public transport.
The Rosslare Commuter service stops at Rathdrum station (2 km walk from station to Avondale House on woodland paths). You could board at Connolly, Pearse, Mallin or Bray stations (among others). The timetable is here: https://www.irishrail.ie/Admin/IrishRail/media/Timetable-PDF-s/Connolly-DART-timetables/08_dublin-rosslare.pdf
On arrival, the first parking bays in the carpark are dedicated disabled parking bays designated for exclusive use by disabled parking permit holders. There is a drop off point at the entrance to the visitor centre for any visitors that have mobility challenges. Age Friendly parking is also available in the first section of the carpark which is clearly marked and provided for people of any age who need some extra space.
Our visit includes a tour of the house with two options (maximum of 27 of us):
Option 1. A one hour guided tour at 12 Noon (for 15 persons max).
Option 2. A 30 minute guided tour at 12:30pm (for 12 persons max) .
As each finishes at 13:00, we are then free to have lunch in the ‘Seed Café’. You just queue and pay for your snack/lunch or you could bring a picnic (there are picnic tables in the grounds). There are soup/sandwich, salad and hot meal options available.
Our tour does not include entry to ‘Beyond the Trees’ walkway experience – again you look after the booking for this yourself. Bookings may be made in advance on-line here. The walkway is disability-proofed and has a gentle incline up to the tower at c. 20m above ground.
We will meet at the entranced to the Visitor Centre at latest 10 min before your tour start time. Option 1 at 11:50am Option 2 at 12:20pm.
TOURS
Booking opens on April 24th at 9.00am and closes on May 8th at 11.00pm.
Option 1. A one hour guided tour at 12 Noon (for 15 persons max) – €14.00 each.
Option 2. A 30 minute guided tour at 12:30pm (for 12 persons max) – €10 each.