Wicklow Gaol to Undergo Change Of Management While Site Closes For Renovations

The closure is to address essential repairs, update exhibitions, and enhance community use, with a reopening anticipated within months.

Wicklow Gaol has temporarily closed to facilitate essential renovations and upgrades.

Improvements are needed to ensure it remains a key tourism and heritage attraction for years to come.

The County Council has commissioned a Conservation Management Plan that will inform a schedule of improvement works for the sites historic fabric.

Initial efforts will address leaks and essential repairs, along with some external maintenance.

Currently, Wicklow County Council is engaged in a procurement process to select a new operator to manage this historic building and key tourism asset, further building upon the Gaol’s strong foundations.

The vision for the future of Wicklow Gaol will be supported by the new operator and includes updating the current exhibition and creating new themed events for seasonal activities such as Halloween and Christmas.

The plan also involves maximising food and drink opportunities, as well as retail options to help the Gaol's use by the local community for festivals and events.

Following the procurement process and improvement works, it is anticipated that Wicklow Gaol will reopen within a few months, ready for the next summer tourist season.

“On behalf of Wicklow County Council, I would like to thank Wicklow Enterprise Centre for looking after the Gaol over the last years” says Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council. 

“This short break is an opportunity for Wicklow County Council to give extra focus and attention to the Gaol, and have it ready to maximise its various opportunities to the benefit of the community, the town and the county.''

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, welcomed the changes to Wicklow Gaol, stating, “I would like to thank the community and various stakeholders, including Wicklow County Tourism, Wicklow Chamber of Commerce and Wicklow Historic Gaol CLG, for their ongoing support during this transitional period.”

The prison had undergone extensive renovations to reopen as a museum in 1998, having closed its doors for the final time as a prison in 1924.

Since reopening, it has evolved to offer several experiences.

The ‘Gates of Hell’ virtual reality experience opened in 2019 and transports guests back in time to Wicklow Gaol in the 1700’s. The gaol is also considered one of Ireland’s most haunted buildings due to its dark and sordid history and also hosts night tours and paranormal tours.