Arklow is a coastal town in County Wicklow, in the province of Leinster on the east coast of Ireland. Its name in Irish is An tInbhear Mór, which refers to the mouth of the river where the town sits.
The town is known for two things above all: its maritime heritage and its pottery. The sea has shaped Arklow for a long time, and the harbour and waterfront remain at the heart of the place, so a visit suits anyone who enjoys walking by boats and open water. The pottery tradition gives the town a different character, and visitors interested in craft and making will find it a natural part of the trip.
What a visit offers
- A walk along the harbour and the river, with a sense of the town's working maritime past
- Time spent with Arklow's pottery, a craft the town is known for
- The wider Wicklow coast and countryside within easy reach of the town
Planning your trip
Arklow works well as a relaxed stop rather than a rushed one. Set aside a few hours for the waterfront and the potteries, and allow more if you plan to explore the surrounding coast. Because the town is small, most of its main points of interest are close to one another, and a slow pace suits it best. Check details such as opening times with the individual businesses or local tourist information before you travel, as these can change.