Wicklow’s Historic Gaol is a unique tourist attraction facility. The restoration project, which was complete in 1998. Wicklow County Council developed the project and it is obvious that the Council is committed to enriching what is a unique facility to ensure its continued progress and future sustainability.

The Gaol tells a story of crime cruelty and exile through interactive exhibitions re-enactments by actors.. The life size tread wheel and the original Gaol dungeon are open for the first time in 140 years. The Gaoler (Richard Hoey) introduces visitors to the Gaol starting at “the gates of hell” from there he will gives them some brief encounters of times past.

Visitors will see the flogging cell and the original bathhouse, while the more courageous will have the opportunity to visit the solitary confinement cell. There they experience the terror and desperation of those who had to endure the punishment, they also meet the Gaol Matron “Mary Morris” in the Gaol schoolroom and experience what the final journey to Australia was like on board the “Hercules”........

The Gaol has been used as a venue for filming in a wide range of projects and productions a list of some is set out below.

Podge and Rodge show

The Den

Ballykissangel

Glenroe

The Molly Maguires

For information, fees and availability on filming at Wicklow's Historic Gaol please contact

0404 61599
wccgaol@eircom.net