Knockree Hostel, Wicklow

Overview
Where we are
Features
Things to do
Prices
Events

TO CONTACT THE HOSTEL DIRECTLY, PHONE: +353 (0)1 276 7981

OR alternatively try Onsite Manager's mobile number: +353 (0)86 6655341

Just off the famous Wicklow Way trail – either on the first stage or the last stage (depending on which direction you walk the Way!) is the rebuilt five-star Knockree Hostel, one of our most popular modern hostels. The original Hostel, which opened its doors in 1938 was an 18th century farmhouse, which is incorporated into the rebuild.

Knockree is a hostel that appeals to many types of travellers and guests. It’s suitable for the individual hiker, couples, families, groups, conferencing and functions. Our ‘Double Deluxe Room’ commands a panoramic view of the fantastic scenery! Knockree Hostel is in a unique location in the Glencree Valley facing Maulin mountain to the south-east and the ‘Sugarloaf’ mountain to the east. The Wicklow Way passes through the land below the hostel, along the banks of the picturesque Glencree River, and so the hostel is the ideal location for hillwalkers and nature lovers alike.

At just over an hour from Dublin, this hostel is popular with Dubliners looking to get away from the city, into the hills and back to nature! Surprisingly for its proximity to Dublin, it is an ideal rural retreat for those who want to ‘get away from it all’. The nearest village is Enniskerry (7.5km) from the hostel. Enniskerry, home to the famous Powerscourt Estate is one of the prettiest Victorian villages in Ireland.

Knockree Hostel boasts varied accommodation, including en-suite rooms, family rooms, wheelchair accessible rooms, dormitory rooms, meeting-room/conferencing area, large-capacity dining-hall, TV-relaxation room with log fire, guest kitchen and restaurant for groups (pre-booked only).

Breakfast including the Full Irish “Mountain Climbing Fuel” breakfast is available to all guests. See here for breakfast options and prices.

Lunch and Dinner are also available on request for groups of 10 or more.

If you’re short of anything or would like a bite to eat – ask about our “mini-shop” which stocks a supply of foodstuffs and toiletries too!

Along with the Dublin International Hostel, Knockree holds the prestigious HI-Quality certification, making it a member of an exclusive group of Hostels around the world that have achieved this coveted certification.

Knockree Hostel is fast becoming one of our most popular hostels with families so be sure to get your booking in early so you can experience the ‘Garden of Ireland’ in one of its best hostels.

Opening Times and Dates

OPENING DATES: All Year Round

RECEPTION OPEN: April - October 07:30 - 22:30 November - March 08:00 - 21:30 24-hour keycard access.

CHECK-IN TIMES: April-October: 15:30 - 22:00 November - March 15:30 - 21:00

You’ll find the best cheap accommodation in Wicklow in Knockree Hostel and the best hostel in terms of the quality of your stay!

Manager Helen will be happy to welcome you to the hostel!

ADDRESS: Knockree Youth Hostel, Lackan House, Lackandarragh, Enniskerry, County Wicklow.

For Bookings and General hostel enquiries contact:

HOSTEL PHONE: +353 (0)1 276 7981

OR alternatively try Onsite Manager's mobile number: +353 (0)86 6655341

EMAIL: hostel@knockreehostel.com

Alternatively, FOR BOOKINGS: +353 (0)1 830 4555

or EMAIL: info@anoige.ie

DIRECTIONS

We’re sure you can navigate around yourself – but here’s a helping hand with plenty of travel choices available!

GPS Details

Decimal: Latitude 53.279444 North Longitude 6.226944 West

Minutes & Hours: Latitude 53° 10’ 46” North Longitude 6° 13’ 37” West

BY CAR OR COACH -To Enniskerry Village

From Dublin

Travel on the M50 Southbound and continue onto N11 Southbound. Take the exit left at Bray South, which is signposted for Greystones & Enniskerry. Take last exit off roundabout signposted Enniskerry and cross over bridge back onto N11 northbound, then immediate next left (stay in slip lane) before green footbridge onto R117. Head in the direction of Glencree - to Enniskerry village. Follow the directions from Enniskerry to the hostel below.

From SE (Wexford & Bray South)

Take the N11 Northbound and head past the 1st exit ramp for Bray (North). Turn off left onto R117 before green footbridge – head in the direction of Glencree - to Enniskerry village. Follow the directions from Enniskerry to the hostel below.

From Bray (North)

At Old Conna Junction: northbound turn left onto Old Connaught Ave, (if southbound, turn right at junction), then left at Old Conna village junction with Thorndale Rd (signposted St Gerard’s School) then sharp right onto Ballymaan Road (signposted Old Dunlaoghaire Golf Club) continue 2km (approx 1 mile) then left at the T-junction at Monastery Cross (Texaco Garage) 1km (approx ½ mile) downhill into Enniskerry village. Follow the directions from Enniskerry to the hostel below.

From Shankill/Loughlinstown

Take the Old Dublin Road, Stonebridge Road or Old Bray Road from Woodbrook onto Crinken/Ballybride Road /Ferndale Road, Rathmichael Road (right of Rathmichael Church) onto Ballycorus Road, at junction with lights at Ballycorus –Kilternan. Turn left onto old Enniskerry Road to Monastery Cross (Texaco Garage - Spar Express) and head left on into Enniskerry Village. Follow the directions from Enniskerry to the hostel below.

To Hostel from Enniskerry Village

Take right fork at the Monument (the Spar Shop will be on your right). Head in the direction of Glencree and travel past the Fruit and Veg shop on the left. Continue uphill 3km (approx 2 miles) on Kilgarron Hill through Kilmolin onto Glencree Drive. Then continue approx another 2.5 km (under 2 miles) and you’ll see Brook Cottage Guest House on left, and Cherryhill Farm on right.

If you have a coach see directions for below. If you have a large coach (52-seater) then please read the directions for the large coach below.

By car, small coach or minibus

Take the next left turn (this is the only signposted turn) downhill posted for 'Waterfall', ‘Oak Lawn B&B' and 'Knockree Youth Hostel'. At the T-junction at Old Annacrivey Schoolhouse, you will be facing a blue pole marked 'Hostel', signposted on your right for 'Oak Lawn B&B' and 'Knockree Youth Hostel'. Take the sharp right here downhill, over a little bridge, back uphill pass Oak Lawn Guest House on left, later a new bungalow 'Finns Meadow' followed by a blind bend to the left, continue on past Glaskenny Farm on your left. Continue approximately another 1km (1/2 mile) after the last house - a new white building on left, until you see flagpoles on your left and the Hostel on your right-hand side. The guest car park is to the rear, past the building. Small Coach parking is at lay-by outside.

Large Coach

Continue up the Glencree Drive approx 2km passing Curtlestown School and Church on right and Curtlestown Wood on right. The 'Wicklow Way' travels along this road until the next junction past Barnamire Lodge. Take the narrow turn left past the Wicklow Way Sign and the Hostel sign (old-style small brown sign with hostel logo) up a lane with high hedges on each side, which widens out at the top. Veer right and continue approx 5 km through the Glencree Valley until you reach the lay-by/turning-circle at Knockree Hill, which is the Wicklow Way staging point for Knockree. The Wicklow Way is signposted each side of the road. Leave Coach here and continue on foot 300m to Hostel.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Dublin Bus route number 44 from Dublin City to Enniskerry Village. Walk from Enniskerry village- same route as by car  or bus number 185 from or taxi from Enniskerry village - approx €15.

DART (Electric train) from Dublin Connolly to Bray. Dublin Bus route number 185 from Bray Station to Terminus on Glencree Drive via Enniskerry village. Walk 35 minutes to Hostel along same route as by car from bus-stop (Brook Cottage) Please note: A taxi from Bray Station to Hostel approx €20

MAP

View Larger Map

Knockree Hostel is fast becoming one of our most popular hostels with families so be sure to get your booking in early so you can experience the ‘Garden of Ireland’ in one of its best hostels.

Meals

Note the Hostel does not provide Dinners/Evening Meals for individual guests, so be sure to stock up and bring food with you. Contact the hostel for advice if you have any questions about food. Our fully-equipped guest kitchen is open 24-hours where guests can prepare their own meals.

The nearest shop is 7km from the hostel, and it closes at 7pm, so be sure to purchase your supplies en-route and bring them with you!

Meals are available for groups (10 + persons) on request, minimum 5 days in advance from the Hostel. Please contact the Hostel or Head Office to request these. Our Budget Breakfast is available to all guests – simply pre-order at check-in. This consists of juice, cereal, toast, tea/coffee. We can also supply hillwalkers with a packed lunch: please ask at check-in.

YES – We have FAMILY ROOMS

YES - We have a washing machine and dryer

YES – We have a Guest Kitchen

YES - We have a TV & DVD player

YES – We have FREE Parking for guests

YES – We have Wheelchair Access

YES – We have FREE conference room for guests (pre-booked)

YES – We have a Drying room

YES – We have Fridges for Guest use

YES – We have table-tennis and pool and Bicycle hire

YES – We have Self-Catering facilities

NOTE: We have LIMITED free Wi-Fi (due to location)

Mobile Phone coverage is LIMITED(due to location). Only O2 subscribers will receive service within the building.

Visit the impressive Powerscourt House and Gardens (including Japanese Gardens) in Enniskerry.

Take a picnic to the Powerscourt Waterfall. (separate access from the House and Gardens) There is an impressive adventure playground in the grounds.

Go trail-biking at Cloon Wood.

Visit the German War Cemetery at Glencree.

Take a stroll along the river bank at Knockree, or go further and explore the hills: ask at Reception for information. The hostels can provide FREE WALKING GUIDES for groups of 6 or more if you call in advance – subject to availability – they’re very popular too!

Visit Avoca Handweavers Shop and Café at Kilmacanogue. The Avoca Fern House Restaurant was designed by the same architect who designed the Hostel rebuild!

Visit Perfumes of Ireland at Kilmacanogue.

Copsewood Aviaries: for the kids: - birds galore and even a monkey or two!

Nearby Bray town is a bustling busy semi-urban seaside town. Take a stroll along its revamped Victorian sea-front. Follow the Cliff Walk Coastal path to Greystones. Visit the tourist office, coffee-shop, exhibition centre and theatre at the Mermaid Civic Centre.

Shoreline Leisure Swimming pool: for the whole family

Sealife Bray - The National Sea Life Centre Bray, you takes you on a journey of the deep…without getting wet! With over thirty spectacular displays including looking at Rivers of the World (watch out for piranha in the Amazon!), Giant Pacific Octopus, Nemo's Kingdom and breathtaking (and a little scary!) Tropical Shark Lagoon, this is a great place for kids to visit to learn all about the wonders of the deep! Ask when booking with An Óige about special rates for our guests.

ATTRACTIONS – cultural and historic

Killruddery House and Gardens, Bray.

A wonderful place to escape for a great day out, Killruddery has been home to the Brabazon Family (the Earls of Meath) since 1618 – the Sunday Business Post described it as “Perfect for Parents”. Close to the hostel, discover a hidden gem in our midst with so much to see and explore. Go for a leisurely walk in one of Ireland’s most renowned gardens, filled with beautiful planting and wooded areas, water features and distinctive outdoor “rooms”. While you’re there have a guided tour of the House itself and then enjoy some refreshments in the Tea Rooms.

Hosting many cultural events - the annual programme of events has everything from Falconry to Bees, the Dawn Chorus to outdoor concerts, picnic and kids events plus the launch of the Walled Garden.

Powerscourt House and Gardens. Owned by the Slazenger family, 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the family’s ownership of the Estate.

Use your Hostelling International Membership card to receive discounts in the following attractions in the area:

• Mt Usher House & Gardens – BBC’s Gardener’s World Magazine voted the Gardens here not only the most romantic in Ireland but also the best and they are one of Monty Don (celebrity gardener) included them in his top 10 favourite gardens. As with all the best gardens, throughout the year there are new delights to enjoy with every changing season. In addition to the Gardens, Mount Usher offers a delicious home-made menu in the Avoca Garden Cafe, as well as a Shopping Courtyard which is open all year round. Members can get the student rate!

• Avondale House & Gardens – One for history buffs, this beautiful Georgian House designed by James Wyatt and built in 1777, was the birthplace and home of Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891) one of the greatest political leaders of Irish history. With a 500+ acres of a forest park with tree trails and walks ranging in duration from one to five hours as well as picnic areas, café, play area, book shop, and three orienteering course there’s plenty to keep you occupied! Members get 2 for the price of 1!

ACTIVITIES

Outdoor Adventure Activities in Knockree?

Got a group and want to organise some outdoor adventure activities for everyone? Well, EcoAdventure Ireland have another branch in their popular chain of adventure centres at our Knockree Hostel in Wicklow and offer the best rates around for group adventure activities!

Activities include: pony trekking, paintball shooting gallery, mountain biking, trail riding, archery, team tasks, survival training, target shooting, low ropes and much more! Visit www.ecoadventureireland.ie for further details and to book in for our overnight rates!

Walking/Hiking: Explore the beauty of the countryside or continue your journey on the Wicklow Way. Ask when you’re booking about our FREE guides – An Óige volunteers are sometimes available to lead a small group on a hike but they need to be booked well in advance as they’re very popular!

To complete the whole Wicklow Way, you would begin in Dublin's southern suburb of Rathfarnham and travels in a south-south-westerly direction across the Dublin and Wicklow uplands, then through the rolling hill country of southwest County Wicklow to finish in the small, County Carlow village of Clonegal 132 kilometres (82 miles) later! Don’t worry though – this is normally broken up into stages and the whole varied walk takes the average hill-walker 8 to 10 days a combination of suburban parkland, forest trails, wild and scenic mountain landscape and finally rolling countryside. For more information on the Wicklow Way and its stages, see the official site.

Cycling: The Wicklow Way makes for a beautiful scenic cycle and you can go trail-biking at Cloon Wood which has mountain bike trails in variety of difficulty levels. Bicycles are available to rent from the hostel for the day. Just ask at reception!

Nightlife and Eating out:

Johnnie Fox’s Pub: Claiming to be the “highest pub in Ireland”, this eccentric pub is situated in Glencullen in the Dublin mountains and is popular with locals, Dubliners and both Irish and overseas tourists – there’s rarely ever a quiet night! Johnnie Fox's is one of Ireland's oldest and most famous Traditional Irish pubs. There is live traditional Irish music and delicious seafood served 7 days a week.

Ask at the Hostel reception and we can book for you.

Poppies’s Restaurant: This small and cosy restaurant with good food and a great atmosphere can be found in Enniskerry. It also boasts excellent coffee and good cakes to finish off a splendid meal with sweetness! (open daytime only)

The Bistro and Mac’s Bar at the Powerscourt Arms, Enniskerry Village. An old-fashioned pub-hotel, this establishment serves high-quality pub-grub in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, 7 days a week. There is a ‘traditional’ music night during the week and regular ‘sessions’ at the weekends.

The Coach Inn, Enniskerry Village. (formerly Nancy Murphys;) A modernised interior and a great menu. Restaurant and pub-grub 6 nights (excludes Monday) and live music several nights a week.

Gordon Ramsay at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Powerscourt. An experience for foodies!

Emilia’s Ristorante, Enniskerry Village. Italian Bistro, Pasta’s and Pizzas. Open 7 nights a week , last orders 10pm.

Pandan Court, Enniskerry Village. Chinese & Thai Cuisine. This restaurant has received high praise from hostel guests. Open 7 nights a week. Also has a take-away service, with delivery to the hostel at weekends in summer season.

The Fern House at Avoca. Avoca Handweavers, Kilmacanogue. Open weekends only – booking is advised. Super food from the Avoca kitchens.

Shelbys Brasserie, Main Street, Bray . A family-owned bustling popular restaurant, Great food and an impressive early-bird menu.

Ask at the Reception for some ideas on where to go during your time in Wicklow!

As with all accommodation, prices vary depending on the season.

Please note: the prices below are indicative of the price range for the hostel – use our booking engine to get an exact price for your booking.

Keep an eye out for our packages and special offers which can save you €€€s and also, if you are a group of 10+ we also give group discounts where possible.

Lastly if you are a member of An Óige/Hostelling International, or you carry a Hostelworld Discount Card you will get a 10% discount on accomodation costs at our hostels per person, per night (see the Ts & Cs for that!). Make sure your membership card is up to date or order a new one now!

HOSTEL

*Price for the hostel includes sheet hire*

• “Honeymoon Suite” (Double Bed) from €60.00 up to €65.00 per room per night

• 2 bed room en-suite from €50.00 up to €55.00 per room per night

• 3 bed room en-suite from €66.00 up to €72.00 per room per night

• 4 bed room en-suite from €90.00 up to €100.00 per room per night

• 5 bed room en-suite (O18) from €20.00 up to €22.00 per person per night

• 6 bed Dorm (O18) from €18.00 up to €21.00 per person per night

• 6 bed Dorm (U18) from €17.50 up to €19.00 per person per night

MEALS

There is a fully-stocked guest kitchen for all our guests.

For information on meals and pricing, please contact the Hostel directly or please email groups@anoige.ie.

Breakfast including the Full Irish “Mountain Climbing Fuel” breakfast is available to all guests. See here for breakfast options and prices.

Lunch and Dinner are also available on request for groups of 10 or more.

If you’re short of anything or would like a bite to eat – ask about our “mini-shop” which stocks a supply of foodstuffs and toiletries too!

Want to rent the Whole Hostel…?

You can rent out the whole hostel (up to 82 beds!) for special occasions (reunions, parties and even weddings!) or even if you just want the exclusive use of the facilities! Rent-a-hostel for Knockree is approx €1,600 per night (depending on the event for which it is booked) in Summer and Bank Holidays, €1,450 in the Low Season. Please contact the hostel directly or email groups@anoige.ie . The hostel manager will be happy to discuss your own individual requirements. For events with particular requirements needed, supplementary fees and security deposits may apply.

ROOM BREAKDOWN

Hostel Room Details

Room Type

Quantity

Double Deluxe en-suite

1

Double-twin en-suite

1

3 bed family en-suite

1

4 bed family en-suite

1

5 bed en-suite

4

6 bed dorm

6

Wheelchairs accessible rooms en-suite 6 bed & 4 bed

2

Total Number Beds

77

You’ll find the best cheap accommodation in Wicklow in Knockree Hostel and the best hostel in terms of the quality of your stay!

Keep checking back!

We'll be updating this page regularly with up-and-coming events!

May

Smithwick's Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival

What is it? Since 1998, The Kilkenny Roots Festival has attracted some of the finest names in the Americana canon; acts like Calexico, Giant Sand, Ryan Adams, Alejandro Escovedo, Mark Eitzel, Guy Clark, Chuck Prophet, Ray LaMontagne, Richmond Fontaine, Rodney Crowell.
When? 4th until 7th of May

For more information, visit their website

Bray Jazz Festival

What is it? Bray Jazz began in the millennium year, and over the years since it has grown and florished to become a must for any lover of Jazz in Ireland at the right time. The festival has earned a reputation for staging fresh, innovative jazz, with performers drawn from both Ireland and abroad.
When? 4th until 6th of May

For more information, visit their website

Big Fiddle Festival

What is it? This annual festival will bring International, national and local musicians together to celebrate the culture of traditional Irish music in Ireland’s highest village, Roundwood, Co. Wicklow.
When? 4th until 6th of May

For more information, visit their website

Bray Head Trail

What is it? 14km Trail Run or 8km Trail Walk. Includes the Historical Cliff Walk and stunning views from Bray Head
When? 19th of May

For more information, visit their website

Wicklow Arts Festival
what is it? Wicklow Arts Festival has grown in stature year on year, and brings an eclectic mix of cultural offerings for all tastes, from classical to comedy and from art exhibitions to artisan food and crafts markets.
When? 24th until 27th

for more information, visit their website

Moxie Adventure Challenge

What is it? Moxie Adventure Challenge starts and ends in Tulfarris House on the shores of the Blessington Lakesand includes: 1.5K Kayak, 30K Cycle and 8K Hill run. The Day in The Garden, includes fun for adults and children, takes place alongside the adventure challenge and as competitors cross the finish line they are rejoined by friends and family for food and beverages.
When? 26th of May

For more information, visit their website

International Gospel Choir Festival

What is it? This Festival will not only be a sharing of Gospel Music and stories from around the world but also a cultural exchange in Gospel singing.
When? 17th until 21st

For more information, visit their website

Hostel:

Arrival on:	Nights:	Guests:


For group bookings of 10+ click here

Room Type	Quantity
Double Deluxe en-suite	1
Double-twin en-suite	1
3 bed family en-suite	1
4 bed family en-suite	1
5 bed en-suite	4
6 bed dorm	6
Wheelchairs accessible rooms en-suite 6 bed & 4 bed	2
Total Number Beds	77

Knockree Hostel

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