Why Powerscourt Waterfall Should Be on Your Ireland Travel Bucket List

If you’re road-tripping through Ireland, you absolutely have to stop by Powerscourt Waterfall! Tucked away in the stunning Wicklow Mountains, it’s Ireland’s tallest waterfall — or is it?

Powerscourt Waterfall drops 121 m down rugged rocks into a lush green valley that feels straight out of a fairytale. It’s a great spot for a day out with trails to explore, picnic spots by the water, and a playground for kiddos. Dogs are welcome too and there’s a small café for snacks or a coffee break.

It’s easy to get here, easy to park, and easy to fall in love with. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just a bit of peace and quiet, Powerscourt Waterfall is a must-visit and totally worth every second. You won’t regret visiting!

Jacob and our friends made fun of me for wanting to visit waterfalls in Ireland — apparently they aren’t “Irish” enough? I think they absolutely are, but they had Guinness and castles more on their mind. Good thing I didn’t listen to them, because Irish waterfalls are beautiful! Waterfalls in general are just so magical.

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Trail Stats

• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Loop & there-and-back
• Length: 1.9 km (see map)
• Duration: 20 minutes – 2 hours
• Elevation Gain: 53 m
• Trailhead: Powerscourt Waterfall parking lot
• Dog-friendly: The trail is dog-friendly, but Ireland has very specific rules for restricted breeds

What to Expect at Powerscourt Waterfall

I couldn’t wait to see my first Irish waterfall! The walk to Powerscourt Waterfall is only about five minutes, although it took us longer because I kept stopping for photos. There’s a slightly steep downhill section near the start, but it’s easy to manage and fully paved.

We could see the waterfall right from the start! As we got closer, it felt like stepping into a fantasy movie—which makes sense, considering so many movies have been filmed here.

We stayed for awhile, just soaking it all in and exploring. It’s one of those places that feels peaceful and energizing all at the same time, the kind of spot where you lose track of time. I couldn’t imagine a better way to spend the morning.

So, what should you expect? A short and easy walk, amazing views with a huge grassy park, a beautiful waterfall cascading down the rocks, and the feeling you’ve found a hidden gem. And don’t forget bug spray.

Top Tips for Visiting Powerscourt Waterfall

Here’s what you need to know before heading to Ireland’s tallest waterfall:

• Time your visit: Powerscourt gets super busy on weekends. Try going early, late in the evening, or on a weekday for a quieter experience. We went around noon on a Friday in May and had it nearly to ourselves.
• Stay safe: The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery. Stick to the paths and pay attention to the warning signs. Climbing is a no-go—it’s dangerous, and sadly, there have been accidents here.
• Wear the right shoes: The paths are easy, but the forest trails can be muddy. Waterproof footwear is your best bet if you don’t want soggy socks. Jacob and I wore Vessi’s this whole trip.
• Bring bug spray: The midges are no joke in the summer. Pack some good bug spray.

Is Powerscourt the Tallest Waterfall in Ireland?

Powerscourt Waterfall is often called Ireland’s tallest waterfall, standing at 121 meters (just under 400 feet). This claim is backed by Wicklow Tourism, Discover Ireland, and the Powerscourt Estate itself. But not everyone agrees—some say the real title belongs to Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird, aka “The Devil’s Chimney,” which towers at 150 meters (492 feet).

The Devil’s Chimney , which is perched above Glencar Lake in the Dartry Mountains between County Sligo and County Leitrim, definitely has a strong case for being the tallest.

Title or no title, Powerscourt Waterfall is undeniably beautiful. Whether it’s officially the tallest or not, it’s one of Ireland’s most iconic spots and absolutely worth the trip!

What You Need to Know about Powerscourt Waterfall

Powerscourt Waterfall is said to be Ireland’s tallest waterfall and is located in the scenic Wicklow Mountains, just a short drive from Dublin.

Below, you’ll find details on location, tickets, parking, and the best time to visit, so you can plan the perfect trip to this stunning waterfall.

Location & How to Get Here

Powerscourt Waterfall is less than an hour’s drive from Dublin and is perfect for a day trip. The cute village of Enniskerry is only 10 minutes away; Roundwood and Greystones are just 20 minutes. It’s located inside the Powerscourt Estate in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains.

The drive to Powerscourt is absolutely gorgeous, winding through quiet country roads that give you a glimpse of the Wicklow countryside.

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Driving to Powerscourt Waterfall

The easiest way to reach the waterfall is by car (we got a rental at the Dublin airport). It’s about a 50-minute drive from central Dublin and is a great escape from the city. If you’re coming from Belfast or Galway, it’s a bit further, about two and a half hours, but still doable for a day trip.

Here’s the simplest route from Dublin:

1. Head south on the N11 towards Wexford.
2. Take the exit for Enniskerry and Powerscourt Gardens onto R1117.
3. Follow the brown signs to the waterfall which is 6 km past the Powerscourt Gardens.

That’s the simplest route—unfortunately, it’s not the one we ended up taking. Google led us onto much smaller, narrower roads that took far longer to navigate. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re already comfortable with Irish roads and prefer to avoid highways.

Driving here was our first introduction to Ireland’s famously narrow roads and driving on the left-hand side which was slightly terrifying. Our friend Eric was driving, huge props to him.

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Public Transport & Other Options

If you’re not driving, getting to the falls is a bit tricky. While there are several ways to reach Powerscourt Estate, including by car, bus, or train, there’s no walking trail or public transport connecting the estate to the waterfall. It would be nice if they had a shuttle, but unfortunately, that’s not the case.

Driving is the best option since the narrow, winding road between them isn’t safe for pedestrians. Without a car, your best bet is to take a taxi from Enniskerry.

Opening Hours

Powerscourt Waterfall is open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season. These hours are current as of 2024, but please check the official website to confirm.

Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your visit:

• January and February: 10:30 am to 4:00 pm
• March and April: 10:30 am to 5:30 pm
• May to August: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm
• September and October: 10:30 am to 5:30 pm
• November and December: 10:30 am to 4:00 pm
• Closed from December 11 to December 25

Last entry is 30 minutes before closing from September to April and 60 minutes before closing from May to August.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

The best time to visit Powerscourt Waterfall really depends on what you’re looking for:

• For the best waterfall views: Visit after a few days of heavy rain when the water level is at its most powerful. Luckily, Ireland’s weather makes this pretty likely to happen!
• For a full day out: If you’re planning to bring a picnic or check out the full estate, visit during the summer months when the waterfall is open later and the weather is (hopefully) more cooperative.
• For fewer crowds: Skip weekends if you can. Weekdays are quieter, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Summer evenings are particularly lovely.

We visited around noon on May 31 (a Friday) and only ran into a handful of other people.

Tickets & Fees

We found the ticket prices for Powerscourt Waterfall pretty high, mostly because of Canada’s terrible exchange rate. It ended up being a pricey waterfall to visit and I wish we would have explored more of the trails to make up for it.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for the waterfall:

• Adults: €7.50
• Children under 16: €3.50
• Children under 2: Free
• Seniors: €6.50
• Students: €6.00
• Family (2 adults, 3 children): €19

The site is privately owned and you’ll pay on arrival at the gate. You can’t book in advance, so just show up and enjoy the day! Payments can be made by cash or contactless card.

Unfortunately, there aren’t any discounts if you’re also visiting Powerscourt Gardens or staying at the Powerscourt Hotel, so you’ll need to pay separately for each attraction.

Parking

Parking at Powerscourt Waterfall is, thankfully, included in your ticket price. After paying a lot for entry, we definitely didn’t want to shell out more for parking.

After you pay at the gate, you’ll drive about a kilometer down a narrow road to the parking lot. It’s a single lane with spots to pull over, so take it slow and be ready to let oncoming cars pass—it’s basically your standard Irish country road.

The parking lot is super close to the waterfall and right by The Bug Buffet kiosk, playground, and washrooms. If you’re visiting in summer or on a bank holiday, it can get pretty busy so showing up early is a good idea. There’s lots of space, including overflow parking, but it’s always nicer to avoid the crowds if you can.

Facilities

Powerscourt Waterfall has everything you need to make your visit as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

• Snacks & Food: Bring your own picnic or fire up a BBQ in the designated areas. In summer, the Bug Buffet kiosk has you covered with coffee, tea, sandwiches, and snacks.
• Parking & Toilets: Parking is right by the waterfall with overflow available when it’s busy. Bathrooms and changing facilities are right next to the parking lot.
• Playground: The playground is perfect for families with young kids. With swings, slides, and plenty of space to play, it’s a great spot for little ones to burn off energy while you relax nearby.

Recharging with Negative Ions

You’ve probably felt the magic of negative ions without even realizing it—like how amazing it feels to stroll along a beach, breathe in fresh air after a storm, or stand by a waterfall.

What does this woo woo have to do with Powerscourt Waterfall? Well, it gives you that same experience! It’s not just about how gorgeous the falls are—it’s about how they make you feel. Standing at the base, with the mist on your skin, you can’t help but feel calmer and refreshed. It’s nature’s way of hitting the reset button.

Negative ions are like little energy boosters that you can’t see or smell, but you can definitely feel. They’re created naturally in places like waterfalls, beaches, and forests when sunlight or moving water breaks apart air molecules. Powerscourt is loaded with them which makes it the perfect spot to recharge.

I knew there was a reason I love waterfalls so much!

Things to Do at Powerscourt Estate

Powerscourt Estate has so much more to do than just the waterfall. You can explore the stunning gardens, take a walk through scenic trails, tour the historic house, or enjoy a relaxing picnic.

Unfortunately, we didn’t realize Powerscourt Waterfall was part of a large estate so we missed out exploring it. Don’t be like us!

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Powerscourt Waterfall Walk

Since we’re talking about Powerscourt Waterfall, the first thing you’ve got to do at Powerscourt Estate is, of course, visit the waterfall! It’s considered Ireland’s tallest and plunges 121 meters (almost 400 feet) down a rugged cliff.

From the parking lot, it’s an easy stroll to the waterfall. You’ll head down a little paved hill and cross a flat, grassy field. You can already see the falls from the lot, so it’s just a quick five-minute walk to get up close.

There are lots of spots to get closer to the waterfall, but make sure to stay safe and follow the signs. We scrambled over a few rocks to reach the base since the flow wasn’t too strong that day, but climbing the cliffs around the falls is a definite no-go.

Additional Trails

After exploring the waterfall, don’t forget to check out the nearby short trails! One popular option is the 1.5-kilometer woodland trail which winds around to the other side of the waterfall. The trail takes about 25 minutes and has some steep spots, so wear good shoes.

Keep an eye out for wildlife. You might see ravens, cuckoos, willow warblers or, if you’re lucky, a Sika Deer or red squirrel.

Picnics

We didn’t get a chance to have a picnic at Powerscourt Waterfall, but it’s definitely something we wish we’d done. The open green space in front of the falls is perfect for hanging out and enjoying a cute little picnic. You can lay out a blanket or grab one of the nearby benches.

There are also BBQ stands available, so you can grill up a meal right on-site. On sunny days, it would be easy to spend hours here. If you’re visiting with kids, the nearby playground is a great spot to keep them entertained while you relax or get lunch going.

Just make sure to clean up after yourself and use the trash bins. If you don’t bring your own food, the Bug Buffet kiosk by the parking lot has snacks, ice cream, and drinks during the summer.

Powerscourt Gardens

The Powerscourt Gardens, just 6 km from the waterfall, are a separate destination and definitely worth a visit. Unfortunately, we didn’t realize they were there and totally missed out—I really wish we’d taken the time to explore them.

The gardens are 47 acres of Italian-inspired beauty with lush landscapes and stunning views. They’re award-winning for a reason and easily some of the best in Ireland. You’ll find gorgeous terraces, ornamental lakes, and amazing views of Sugarloaf Mountain, especially from the Pepperpot Tower in Tower Valley. Definitely a must-see!

The area around the waterfall might not have the same wow factor as the official gardens, but the flowers and trees nearby are still really pretty. If you’re short on time (or don’t feel like spending extra cash), you can still soak up some of that natural beauty right here.

Powerscourt House

If you’ve got the time, visiting Powerscourt House is absolutely worth it. The area’s history spans 800 years and was even home to a medieval castle back in the day. The current house, built by the 1st Viscount Powerscourt, was finished in 1741 and has that classic 18th-century charm.

These days, Powerscourt House is buzzing with activity. You’ll find local gems like the Avoca Terrace Café and some cute boutiques. The best part? It’s free to check out the house and shops (but you’ll need a ticket to explore the gardens).

Powerscourt Distillery

If you’re into whiskey or just curious about how it’s made, Powerscourt Distillery is a must-visit. It’s located right on the Powerscourt Estate and is home to Fercullen Irish Whiskey.

The distillery is in a restored 18th-century mill and mixes tradition with modern craft. You can take a guided tour to see how whiskey is made, learn about the estate’s history, and taste some of their best creations. One of the coolest parts is the on-site warehouse where they age the whiskey.

Movies at Powerscourt Waterfall & Estate

Something you might not know is that Powerscourt Waterfall and Estate is one of Ireland’s most iconic filming spots and since the 1920s they’ve been featured in over 50 productions. It’s easy to see why—it’s like walking straight into a fantasy world!

One of the coolest movies filmed at Powerscourt Waterfall is Excalibur (1981). It was the setting for the epic fight between King Arthur and Lancelot, and the base of the falls doubled as the legendary “sword from the lake” scene. If you’re into Arthurian legends, you can also spot it in the 2004 King Arthur movie.

More recently, several scenes in the TV series Vikings were shot here. In 2015, the movie Cocaine Bear also filmed in the area and used the surrounding woods for many outdoor shots.

Powerscourt House and the Grand Ballroom were used in Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon . The Italian Gardens appeared in The Count of Monte Cristo where a dramatic entrance was made in a hot air balloon.

The gardens have massive Redwood trees and made an appearance in Battle at Big Rock (a short Jurassic Park film) because they look so much like California’s Redwoods. The Dolphin Pond also got its Hollywood moment when it was turned into a swimming pool for The Tudors.

Sustainability & Biodiversity

I think it’s awesome that Powerscourt Estate works hard to protect its natural beauty so future generations can enjoy it, too. They are the first visitor attraction to be certified by Sustainable Travel Ireland and their goal is to reach Net Zero by 2025.

The estate’s motto, “Working with Nature,” sums it up. They focus on helping visitors connect with the environment while proving that history and conservation can go hand in hand. Powerscourt sets a high standard for sustainable tourism and shows how impactful these efforts can be.

History of Powerscourt Waterfall & Estate

Powerscourt Waterfall, which was formed over 20,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, is hands down one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. This stunning waterfall flows down bedrock and has been a centerpiece of the Powerscourt Estate for centuries.

Back in 1741, Richard Wingfield, the 1st Viscount Powerscourt, built Powerscourt House in an elegant Italian style. The estate, along with the waterfall, was often used to wow important guests and has housed generations of his family since.

One of the best stories comes from 1821 when King George IV visited the 5th Viscount Powerscourt. To impress him, the estate staff dammed the waterfall to stop its flow and planned to release the water for a dramatic show They even built a special viewing platform for the King to watch the big moment.

But, in true royal fashion, King George, who was too stuffed and entertained at the house, never made it to the waterfall. When they finally let the water loose, the surge was so powerful it swept away the viewing platform—probably for the best that the King skipped out! (Or was that secretly their plan all along?)

People have been coming to the Powerscourt Waterfall for centuries, with its history as a tourist attraction going back to 1741. It’s still a must-visit spot today!

Other Things to Do Near Powerscourt Waterfall

One of the best things about Powerscourt Waterfall is how close it is to some of Wicklow’s top spots. Whether you’re up for more outdoor adventures, want to dive into some history, or are just hunting for amazing food, there’s loads to explore nearby!

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Explore Wicklow Mountains National Park

After checking out Powerscourt Waterfall and Estate, head to Wicklow Mountains National Park to keep exploring. This stunning park covers nearly 20,000 hectares and is packed with dramatic Irish landscapes, scenic drives, and plenty to keep you entertained.

• Ballinastoe Woods: Stroll along a magical wooden boardwalk through enchanting scenery that feels like it’s straight out of The Lord of the Rings.
• Lough Tay (Guinness Lake): This picturesque lake, once owned by Arthur Guinness, looks like a pint of Guinness with its dark water and sandy shore. Jacob would’ve loved this! It’s also a filming location for Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla.
• Blessington Lakes: Visit the iconic bridge from P.S. I Love You and enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting.
• Djouce Mountain Walk: Take on this hike for breathtaking views of the Wicklow Mountains and surrounding countryside.
• Glendalough Monastic Site: Explore ancient history and stunning trails around this peaceful valley with two beautiful lakes.
• Sally Gap Drive: Drive through some of Ireland’s most dramatic and jaw-dropping scenery.
• Killruddery House and Gardens: Explore a gorgeous historic estate with beautifully maintained gardens and woodland walks.

Hikes Near Powerscourt Waterfall

You can’t climb Powerscourt Waterfall itself, but there are lots of great hikes nearby with amazing views. Wicklow is awesome for hikers and has trails for every skill level. Here are some hikes to check out:

• Crone Woods Walk: About halfway through, you’ll get a stunning view of Powerscourt Waterfall. It’s a fairly easy trail that lets you enjoy the area without going too far off the beaten path.
• Djouce Woods: A forested trail with sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains and even glimpses of the waterfall.
• Djouce Mountain: A challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic vistas of Lough Tay, the mountains, and beyond.
• The Spinc: Located in Glendalough, this looped trail offers a mix of forest, boardwalk, and stunning views over the Glendalough Valley.
• Lough Ouler: Known as Ireland’s “heart-shaped lake,” this hike takes you to a unique and romantic natural feature.
• Devil’s Glen: A scenic trail that passes through woodlands and alongside the River Vartry with dramatic cliffs and peaceful spots along the way.
• Sugarloaf Mountain: One of Wicklow’s most iconic peaks, this short but steep climb rewards hikers with incredible views of Dublin and Wicklow.

Where to Stay Near Powerscourt Waterfall

If you really want to make the most of your visit to Powerscourt Waterfall and the Wicklow Mountains, staying nearby is the way to go. Whether you’re into luxury hotels or cozy guesthouses, there’s something for everyone.

• Powerscourt Hotel: This 5-star, luxury resort is located at Powerscourt Estate and has stunning views of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain, elegant rooms, award-winning restaurants, and a world-class spa.
• Summerhill House Hotel: This cozy country house in Enniskerry is perfect for a peaceful getaway. It has comfortable rooms, lovely gardens, and easy access to local attractions with a relaxed vibe.
• Knockree Hostel: On a budget? It’s close to the Wicklow Way and offers simple but comfy accommodations with amazing views of the surrounding landscape.
• BrookLodge & Macreddin Village: A short drive from Powerscourt, this eco-friendly hotel has a luxurious spa, organic dining, and a chilled countryside setting.

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Wrapping Up

Powerscourt Waterfall was our first stop outside of Dublin and it couldn’t have been a better intro to Ireland’s beauty. We loved exploring the falls, soaking up the peaceful surroundings, and getting a small taste of the Wicklow Mountains. That said, we definitely wish we’d had more time to check out the rest of the estate and explore more of the nearby trails.

It’s safe to say we’ll just have to plan another trip to more fully experience everything this incredible area has to offer. Whether it’s your first stop or part of a longer adventure, Powerscourt Waterfall and the surrounding attractions are absolutely worth the visit!