Rathdrum; R752 crossing the Avonmore River

Rathdrum (Irish: Ráth Droma, meaning 'ringfort of the ridge') is a small town in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is situated high on the western side of the Avonmore River valley, which flows through the Vale of Clara. The village is in a townland and civil parish of the same name.

History

The town and area is referred to as Rathdrum in records stretching back as far back as 1604 in the Calendar of Patent Rolls of James I but is likely of much older origin.

Avondale House was built near the town around 1779.

The Comerford family established a mill in the town in the 19th century.

Transport

Railway

Rathdrum is served by mainline train and bus from Dublin and Rosslare. Rathdrum railway station opened on 18 July 1863, replacing the earlier terminus at Rathdrum (Kilcommon) (opened on 20 August 1861) when the line was extended.

Bus

Wexford Bus route 740 from Wicklow to Arklow serves Rathdrum twice a day each way (once each way on Sundays) and provides a link to Avoca, Woodenbridge, Glenealy and Rathnew.

The Wicklow Way bus service operates two routes linking Rathdrum railway station and Rathdrum with Glendalough and Tinahely, respectively.

Politics and government

Ardavon House, Rathdrum, formerly the home of the Comerfords and later operated as a school from 1958 to 1991. It was damaged in a fire while owned by Wicklow County Council and remains derelict as of 2025.

Rathdrum is part of the Wicklow constituency for national elections and referendums, and the South European Parliament constituency for European elections.

Rathdrum is the location of the Honorary Consulate of Belarus in Ireland.

People

Born in Rathdrum:

Notable residents:

Filming location

The following works have been filmed in part in the town:

See also

External links