Birding Kilcoole, Wicklow

Kilcoole is a small village on the coast of County Wicklow just south of Greystones and north of Newcastle. This is a popular bird watching site during winter months. The village is close to the coast and there is a stoney beach that runs all the way to both Greystones and Newcastle. When you access the beach, turn to your right. As you walk along the beach, stay close to the railway line. From here, you will see a series of pools and marshlands that flood during winter (which is the best time to visit).

This area is managed as a nature reserve by Birdwatch Ireland. In winter, it holds large numbers of geese, swans, waders and wildfowl. Divers can often be seen off the coast. It is possible to walk all the way to the East Coast Nature Reserve at Newcastle which is about 5 Kilometres away (10K round trip). Remember, in winter the days are short, so leave plenty of time to get back!

There is a small carpark beside the train station, which is right beside the beach. Sat-Nav co-ordinates are 53.106267, -6.041294 or just enter “Kilcoole Railway Station” into Google Maps!

The Lough attracts gulls, waders, ducks, swans as well as finches, chats and others. It is possible to walk around the Lough. At the Northerly end of the Lough you can turn off Lough Atalia Road onto College Road. There is free parking available here.

Sat-Nav co-ordinates for parking: 53.280149, -9.036076

More information here for “East Coast Nature Reserve“