What started as a small coaching inn for tired travellers in the 17th century, is now one of Wicklow’s most loved hotels.
Proudly owned and warmly managed by Joseph & Mark Scott-Lennon who bought the hotel in 2024, it’s changed a fair bit over the years.
Explore our timeline below to see it’s 400 year old story…
1608
The Woodenbridge was first licensed as a coaching house — it was one of the first inland stops for people walking or riding in from the coast.
1630's
The King’s representative, the ill-fated Earl of Stafford, was a regular guest at Woodenbridge. He normally began his journey at Arklow Castle and travelled to his lodge, staying here en-route. He wrote glowing accounts of the scenery in letters to King Charles I.
1691
A strong timber bridge was erected by King William’s army which became known as the ‘Wooden Bridge’
The new coach roads established alongside the bridge significantly increased business for the inn, which became known as the Putland Arms Hotel. This establishment was managed by the Bowland family for several generations
1796
The inn became a key place to stay during the great Wicklow gold rush when gold was discovered nearby on Croghan Mountain. Guests included the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and Sir Walter Scott.
1910
Eamon De Valera spent his honeymoon with Sinéad De Valera at the Woodenbridge Hotel. The room they stayed in is now named in their honour.
1914
Across the road from the hotel, John Redmond gave a famous speech at the outbreak of WW1. He called on all Irishmen to fight the war in defence of ‘morality, freedom and religion.’
1922
Michael Collins, the revolutionary hero of the War of Independence, stayed at the hotel while engaging in secret meetings with senior British Army officers.
1993
The O’Brien family purchased the hotel and dedicated themselves to refurbishing it, bringing it up to modern standards while preserving its original historic charm
1996
The family added 12 more rooms to the main hotel, nine of which have their own balconies overlooking Woodenbridge Golf Club and some of the country’s most spectacular scenery.
2004
The Woodenbridge Lodge was opened with 40 new bedrooms besides the scenic Aughrim River.
2008
The Woodenbridge Hotel celebrated its 400th birthday!
2021
After a challenging year for all due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the new outdoor barbecue restaurant, The Smokehouse, was opened and enjoyed a truly memorable summer.
2024
In the Summer of 2024 Joseph & Mark Scott-Lennon of Fitzpatrick Castle acquired the Woodenbridge Hotel, the first addition to the Fitzpatrick Hotel Collection.
