The Emerald Isle can showcase the best of its talents across all seasons throughout the year, and this season is no different. Here are the best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn.
Ireland is a unique island country that can be visited any time of the year, be it clear blue summer skies or when the snow falls in the frostier winter months.
However, the Emerald Isle is also a beautiful place to be when autumn comes around. The trees shed their leaves, and the myriad of yellow and red colours scatter the grounds we walk on.
If you are thinking of a day trip from home to break the monotony of your normal routine, read on to discover the top ten best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn.
10. Phoenix Park, Co. Dublin – one of Europe’s largest parks
Kicking off our list of the best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn is the iconic Phoenix Park in Dublin 8, one of the largest public parks in all of Europe.
Watch the colours of autumn set in as the leaves fall around you. Better still, you are only a few kilometres away from Dublin city centre for the ultimate day out.
Address: Dublin 8, Ireland
9. Slieve Bloom, Co. Laois – Ireland’s hidden mountains
Known as the land of Fionn MacCumhaill, this majestic mountain range in the midlands of Ireland is a stunning sight in the autumn months.
Breaching the borders of Counties Laois and Offaly, Slieve Bloom is one of the lesser-explored but colourfully rich and naturally beautiful places to visit in Ireland in the autumn.
Address: Glendine, Co. Laoise, Ireland
8. Colin Glen Forest Park, Co Antrim – a west Belfast gem
Found deep in the heartland of west Belfast in County Antrim is the Colin Glen Forest Park, a superb parkland whose popularity is steadily on the rise.
Colin Glen is great to bring the kids, walk the dog, embark on a lung-busting run, or a simple breezy walk with the coat and hat on to challenge the brisk, cold air.
Address: 163 Stewartstown Rd, Dunmurry, Belfast BT17 0HW
7. Dunmore Cliffs, Co. Waterford – rugged coastal cliffs
This picturesque cliff walk is a must on your list of the best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn.
Dunmore East is a quiet fishing village, and the moderate walking trail guides you through the autumn tinge in the air as you are gently greeted by the mist of the Irish Sea.
Address: Dún Mór, Nymphhall, Co. Waterford
6. Hazelwood Forest, Co. Sligo – one of the best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn
Hazelwood Forest and Demesne becomes a crystal concoction of yellow, orange, and red colours of autumn as they pad the ground around you on your travels here.
The forest is only a short distance from Sligo Town, where you can wash your walk down with a nice pint and tasty meal in the many pubs, bars, and restaurants.
Address: Kiltycahill, Sligo, Ireland
5. Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry – the crown in the Kingdom’s jewel
Ireland’s seminal national park is a guaranteed name on the list of the best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn.
Its vast expanse is inhabited by dominant mountain peaks, lush forest, rolling hills, and a peaceful lake, the perfect cocktail for your autumn visit.
Address: Co. Kerry, Ireland
4. Bray Head Cliff, Co. Wicklow – overlook the Irish Sea
Autumn can get nippy but not freezing. So, a coastal cliff walk should always be on the cards.
Located between Bray and Greystones, choose your resting place after you go head-to-head with the Irish Sea from the heights of northern Wicklow.
Address: Newcourt, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
3. Tollymore Forest Park, Co. Down – at the foot of the Mourne Mountains
A hidden gem in County Down, Tollymore Forest Park is a deserved top five recipient of best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn.
The forest comprises a massive 630 acres and sits right on the foot of the incredible Mourne Mountains. This is one not to pass up as it also has one of the best caravan and camping parks in Northern Ireland.
Address: Bryansford Rd, Newcastle BT33 0PR
2. Birr Castle and Gardens, Co. Offaly – where heritage and beauty combine
The marriage of autumn leaves and wind come together with the mixture of heritage and beauty at the splendid Birr Castle in County Offaly.
Along your walking trail, you are greeted by beautiful flowers and woodland and welcomed by panoramic views of the castle from outdoor terraces.
Address: Townparks, Birr, Co. Offaly, Ireland
1. Powerscourt Estate, Co. Wicklow – one of the finest gardens in the world
Taking our number one spot for the best places to visit in Ireland in the autumn is Powerscourt Estate. Voted the third best garden in the world, this is one not to miss.
Autumn truly comes to life in these dominating grounds. Here, the historic estate overlooks the cascading colours that dot the grounds below it.
Address: Powerscourt Demesne, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
