Deputy's Pass

Deputy's Pass is a 47-hectare national nature reserve located in County Wicklow, representing one of Ireland's last remaining ancient oak woodlands. Designated as both a National Nature Reserve and a Special Area of Conservation under European law, this precious woodland fragment preserves a living connection to the extensive forests that once covered much of eastern Ireland. The Potter River flows through the reserve, adding aquatic habitats to the woodland ecosystem. Managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Deputy's Pass stands alongside Cronybyrne Wood and the Glen of the Downs as protected remnants of the historic Wicklow woodlands, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Ireland's primeval forest heritage.