Did you know the summit beneath your feet straddles Dublin and Wicklow? Welcome to Prince William’s Seat. It is a popular spot for hill-walkers. This majestic peak stands at 555 metres. That’s 1821 feet above sea level.
Prince William’s Seat ranks as the 296th highest peak in Ireland. This is according to the Arderin scale. The peak doesn’t qualify as a Vandeleur-Lynam though. It simply isn’t tall enough.
The mountain sits on the border between the Wicklow and Dublin Mountains. It marks the northern edge of the scenic Glencree valley. Prince William’s Seat is separated from its twin, Knocknagun. The separation is only a small col. Both peaks share the same impressive height.
Local lore suggests a connection to royalty. The hill may be named after William. He was the brother of King George IV. The naming likely followed the king’s visit to Ireland in 1821.
But here’s a twist. No Irish name has been found before it was called Prince William’s Seat. Historical maps referred to it as the Commons of Ballynulty. This was a local townland.
Adding to the mystery, the nearby Knocknagun translates to “hill of the dogs.” Some think this name once applied to both peaks.
Close to Knocknagun’s summit sits Fitzwilliam’s Seat. It’s a granite tor. The Fitzwilliam family owned these lands long ago. They used this spot as a resting place during hunts.
Hikers love the loop route. It starts at the Boranaraltry Bridge in Glencullen. The route climbs Knocknagun through Glencullen Forest. Then it crosses over to Prince William’s Seat. The loop is a manageable 10.5 kilometers. It usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete.
From Prince William’s Seat, views stretch across Dublin and Wicklow. The rugged Wicklow landscape contrasts with Dublin’s urban sprawl. On clear days, you can spot Kippure, Fairy Castle, and the Great Sugar Loaf.
So, as you stand on Prince William’s Seat remember its layers of history. Royal visits and ancient hunting grounds all converge. This spot offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.