**Powerscourt Waterfall** Located in County Wicklow, Ireland, this county is incredibly beautiful — with high mountains, extinct volcanoes, and winding mountain roads that make driving an absolute thrill. Powerscourt Waterfall is a perfect spot for a family picnic. There are wooden benches throughout the area, and best of all, there are iron plates available, so you can bring disposable BBQ trays and grill on the spot! Not far from the waterfall, there’s also a playground, making it a great place to bring kids. Pack some fruits, drinks, BBQ food, and even a radio — you can easily spend the whole day here. Ideal for a road trip! It’s recommended to take a taxi directly from Bray. If you go to the end stop of bus 45A, it’s actually harder to get a ride, as there aren’t many cars around. For the return trip, it’s best to call a taxi from the parking area. The signal can be weak, so ask the driver to message you before arriving — by the time you receive it, they’re usually already on the way in. Rather than just visiting a waterfall, it feels more like strolling through a park. You’ll see lots of people having picnics — and it smells amazing. The forest is especially beautiful this season.
Powerscourt Waterfall
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Powerscourt Waterfall
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Powerscourt Waterfall famous?
Powerscourt Waterfall is Ireland's highest waterfall at 121 meters, set within a beautiful estate landscape. It has been a popular visitor attraction since the 18th century and served as a filming location for movies including Excalibur (1981).
Can you swim at Powerscourt Waterfall?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Powerscourt Waterfall for safety reasons. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Powerscourt Waterfall?
Dogs allowed on-leash only in the waterfall grounds and nature trails. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Powerscourt Waterfall free? Do you need a permit?
Yes, admission fee applies (approximately €6.50 for adults as of recent information, but prices may vary). Not a free attraction. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Powerscourt Waterfall?
On-site car park available at the waterfall entrance with ample capacity. Parking is included with admission fee. The waterfall is a short walk from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Powerscourt Waterfall?
No hike required. The waterfall is a short 5-minute walk (approximately 200-300 meters) from the car park along paved paths. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Powerscourt Waterfall hike difficulty
Easy / Roadside. Short paved walk from car park suitable for all abilities, wheelchair accessible paths available to viewing areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Powerscourt Waterfall?
Spring and autumn (March–May, September–November) for best water flow after rainfall, and fewer crowds than summer. Winter can also be impressive after heavy rain. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Powerscourt Waterfall
From the car park, follow the paved path through woodland for approximately 5 minutes. The main viewing area is directly in front of the waterfall base. Nature trails loop through the surrounding forest if you wish to explore further. The paths are well-marked and maintained.
Powerscourt Waterfall official website
Attractions near Powerscourt Waterfall
- •Powerscourt House & Gardens – 5km away, one of Ireland's finest estates with formal gardens
- •Glencree Valley – scenic mountain valley nearby with walking trails
- •Great Sugar Loaf Mountain – distinctive conical peak visible from the waterfall, popular hike
- •Enniskerry Village – charming heritage village 5km away with cafes and shops
- •Djouce Mountain – hillwalking area with panoramic views of Wicklow Mountains
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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