Wicklow Gaol

A visit to Wicklow Gaol takes you on an unforgettable journey through an original prison building, telling the stories of the men, women and children who were imprisoned here under British rule during two centuries of history.

The Gaol was for many years, a place of horror where prisoners endured torture, starvation and death. See two turbulent centuries of Irish history come to life with an audio visual display with holograms, mannequins, a replica prison ship and interpretive panels. Wander through the 1798 Rebellion, the Famine years and the Irish War of Independence and Civil War.

On the “Gates of Hell” tour, visitors are transported back in time and immersed in 3 unique stories form the Gaol’s history whilst visiting authentic cells in the Gaol building.

A day tour allows you to meet Mary Morris the matron who will escort you to your prison cell before boarding the convict ship HMS Hercules for a rough voyage to the New World. There is also the option of a night tour led by professional actors in period costume.