Wicklow County Council is pleased to announce the successful purchase of a 21-acre beachfront parcel of land at Magheramore in Wicklow. This land, which offers panoramic views of the beach and the Irish Sea, was previously owned by the Columbian order of sisters before being sold multiple times. Long celebrated for its natural beauty, clear waters and unspoiled surroundings, Magheramore Beach has become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Magheramore Beach has also been featured in numerous film and TV productions making it an integral part of the Wicklow coastline.
Wicklow County Council had previously attempted to secure public ownership of the land for beach access. They were unsuccessful bidders at the initial auction in 2021 and again at the auction held in March 2025. However, after the successful bidder decided not to proceed with the sale, the Council was given the opportunity to intervene and complete the purchase of this important coastal amenity.
The acquisition of the land at Magheramore will guarantee continued access to the beloved beach. Furthermore, it is a step towards the County Development Plan objectives to protect the Special Area of Conservation and the National Heritage Area.
Cllr Paul O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, stated, “On behalf of the elected members of Wicklow County Council and particularly the six members of Wicklow Municipal District, we are delighted to welcome the purchase of the 21 acres of land at Magheramore by Wicklow County Council. This beach has long been associated with surfing and filming, serving as the backdrop for numerous TV productions including historical dramas such as Vikings and Camelot, the EastEnders spin-off series Redwater, and Amy Huberman’s Finding Joy. In recent years the beach has also hosted the annual “Strip & Dip”, where brave swimmers venture into the waves to raise funds for cancer research.”
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, added, “We are delighted to confirm the signing of the agreement for the purchase of the lands at Magheramore. From the beginning, our aim has been to protect access to this beach and uphold the objectives of the County Development Plan.”
Cllr Gail Dunne, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District, noted, “This is fantastic news! The Council has secured continued access to an amenity that will be enjoyed by young people and families for generations to come. I want to take this opportunity to thank the officials for their efforts in securing the purchase of the land.”
Brian Gleeson, Director of Finance for Wicklow County Council and Wicklow District Manager, commented, “Following a long and repeated bidding process, the Council was afforded the opportunity to purchase the land and we immediately acted on this to ensure a swift and efficient transfer of ownership. I also wish to acknowledge the strong community support that helped highlight the importance of preserving Magheramore Beach for public use”
IMAGERY
Picture 1: Magheramore Beach. Photo credit Valerie Lyons
Picture 2: Magheramore Beach. Photo credit Fiona Howe
Picture 3: Magheramore Beach. Photo credit Leah Lyons