Avondale House & Forest Park

Avondale House, Avondale, County Wicklow, Ireland is the birthplace and home of Charles Stewart Parnell (1846–1891) one of the greatest political leaders of Irish history. It is set in a magnificent Avondale Forest Park of over 2 km² with tree trails and walks ranging in duration from one to five hours. The river Avonmore flows through the park.

It is a Georgian house, designed by James Wyatt and built in 1777. It is notable for its fine plasterwork and still contains many original pieces of furniture. The American Room is dedicated to Admiral Charles Stewart (1778-1869), Parnell's American grandfather who commanded the USS Constitution (now moored in Boston Harbor) during the War of 1812.

 The State purchased Avondale in 1904 and it was here that the first silvicultural experimental plots were laid. The 500 acre park today has a number of marked walks, - River Walk, Exotic Walk, Pine Walk, Sli na Slainte walk, Cairn Walk and this year the new Centenary Walk.

There is an audio visual presentation, expert guides, a café serving fresh and locally sourced produce with a wine licence, picnic and children’s play area and three orienteering course.