Located in Southeast Ireland, the town of Wexford is situated on the River Slaney. The town dates back to about 800 AD when it was founded by Vikings, and during the Middle Ages it was an Old English settlement. Today it’s got a population of around 20,000 and visitors love to explore its heritage. The town offers historic sites like medieval lanes, a 13th-century tollgate which has been restored, and the ruins of a 12th-century abbey. There are other attractions as well, such as the National Opera House and Curracloe Beach. If you’re planning to visit this historic Irish town then you’re in luck because we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite things to do in Wexford, Ireland. So keep on reading and check out the options.
1. Build a house with wattle at Irish National Heritage Park
Let’s start our list off with something for the history buffs. The Irish National Heritage Park aims to bring more than 9,000 years of Irish history to life. You’ll be able to explore the lives of early Irish settlers and see historic buildings. There’s plenty of activities to partake in, from throwing an axe like a Viking to foraging like an early farmer. The park also offers a variety of courses, including tool making, hunting, and building with wattle and daub (branches and mud). The park certainly is an immersive experience with plenty of activities to enjoy for all ages.
Irish National Heritage Park
Address: Ferrycarrig, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Irish National Heritage Park
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD
2. Take a tour of Tintern Abbey
Tintern Abbey is another attraction for the history lovers. It was built around 1200 and it’s now designated as a National Monument of Ireland. The abbey was founded by the Earl of Pembroke, who, according to legend, found himself stuck in a bad storm on the sea, and he vowed to establish an abbey if he survived. The abbey today is in ruins but visitors can still see some parts of it, including the nave, tower, and chapel. A guided tour is available.
Tintern Abbey
Address: Saltmills, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Tintern Abbey
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 4 USD
3. Have a look inside Selskar Abbey
Wexford doesn’t have just one abbey to visit, it’s got two. Selskar Abbey was founded in the 12th century. The site has a lot of interesting history. The abbey actually replaced a pre-Christian temple which stood on the site. In 1169, the first Anglo-Irish peace treaty was signed. And Henry II spent lent at the abbey, doing penance for having Thomas Beckett beheaded. Today the abbey sits in ruins, and another church also occupies the site. But visitors can take walking tours to see what’s left of the original structure and learn more about its history.
Selskar Abbey
Address: Tower Ct, Ferrybank South, Wexford, Ireland
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 3pm - 4pm (closed on Sun)
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4. Go swimming at Curracloe Beach
Curracloe Beach is one of Ireland’s most popular beaches. It’s got soft sand rather than the rocks and pebbles that make up most of Ireland’s beaches. The soft sand makes it an excellent beach to sunbathe on or go for a walk on. There is a lifeguard on duty during the summer months, but the water can get quite choppy so do take care. Parallel to the beach is Curracloe Forest so you can walk the trails before heading back to the beach and taking a dip.
Curracloe Beach
Address: 1 Castlehill Bungalows, Ballinesker, Curracloe, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Curracloe Beach
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
5. Shop, dine, and go for a pint along the Main Street of Wexford
Wexford’s Main Street is located in the city centre and in many ways forms the heart of the city. It’s filled with restaurants, shops, and pubs, making it a great place to stroll along and spend an afternoon. You could start your day off with a cup of coffee at Cappuccino’s. If you want to do some shopping, you’ve got plenty of options, including New Look and Shoe Zone. You could head to a pub for a meal and to enjoy a few pints—Simon Lambert & Sons is a popular one. We also recommend checking the streets just off Main Street as well.
6. Walk past the formal lawns and diamond-shaped flowerbeds at Colclough Walled Garden
The Colclough Walled Garden is a Georgian garden which has recently been restored. It was created in the early 1800s by the Colclough family, and restoration in the early 2010s returned the park to how it looked in 1838. The park is divided into two sections, the Ornamental side and the Kitchen side. The garden has a geometric design, with plants arranged in diamond shapes. It’s surrounded by woods and the ruins of Tintern Abbey so you’ll have no shortage of beauty to enjoy. It’s a great spot to go when you want some fresh air while still enjoying Wexford’s sites.
Colclough Walled Garden
Address: Tintern Abbey, Castleworkhouse, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Colclough Walled Garden
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
7. Admire the Georgian architecture of the St. Iberius’ Church
The original foundations of St. Iberius Church were built in the 1600s, and it’s had various updates since, including a Renaissance-style exterior. The interior was constructed in the 18th century by the architect John Roberts. The church has served the Wexford community for generations and today remains open for service and community events. Visitors are welcome to explore the church Monday through Saturday. The church also hosts concerts, and as it’s known for having great acoustics, the concert will no doubt sound great.
St. Iberius’ Church
Address: Ferrybank South, Wexford, Ireland
Website: St. Iberius’ Church
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
8. Browse through the collections at Irish Agricultural Museum
If you’re interested in Ireland’s history then a visit to Irish Agricultural Museum is a great idea. The museum is devoted to telling its visitors about the history of rural life in Ireland. The museum is based at Johnstown Castle, in the castle’s farm buildings, and opened in 1979. There are 19 exhibitions in the museum which cover farming life, farming equipment, country kitchens, and crafts. There’s also an exhibition which explored the Irish Potato Famine. A visit to the museum makes for a great day out that’s both fun and educational.
Irish Agricultural Museum
Address: Johnstown Castle Estate, Oldtown Ln, Johnstown, Murrintown, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Irish Agricultural Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 5pm
Price: 10 USD
9. Visit the twin churches of Church of the Assumption and Bride Street Church
The corner stones of both Church of the Assumption and Bride Street Church were laid on the same day in the mid-1800s. And thus, the Twin Churches of Wexford came to be. Their identical spires pierce the city skyline, and also seem a shadow of one another. They are both designed almost exactly the same, made in the Gothic Revival style by architect Richard Pierce, who was inspired by Augustus Pugin, the famous designer of the interior of Westminster and the clock tower which houses Big Ben in London. The twin churches are just a five-minute walk from one another, so it’s easy to have a look at both—enjoy their architecture, appreciate their stained glass windows, and marvel at the fact that the town has two practically identical churches just a short distance from one another.
Church of the Assumption and Bride Street Church
Address: Bride St, Whitewell, Wexford, Ireland
10. Spot the birds at Wexford Wildfowl Reserve
The Wexford Wildfowl Reserve is a nature reserve which provides a home to both local and migratory birds. Over 250 species of bird have been recorded in the reserve’s open fields. This includes geese, swans, and ducks. The reserve is also home to Irish hares and red squirrels. The reserve also features a visitor centre and an observation tower. Plus, it’s free to visit! If you’re a nature lover, the reserve should definitely be on your list of places to visit.
Wexford Wildfowl Reserve
Address: North West Slob, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Wexford Wildfowl Reserve
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
11. Have a close encounter with farm animals at Blackwater Open Farm
Up next we have Blackwater Open Farm, another option if you’re into nature and being outdoors. The farm features plenty of activities for all ages, including a bouncy castle, tractors to ride, and the chance to practice milking on a model cow. And of course you’ll have a chance to meet the farm animals. During the warmer months, there’s even a cafe where you can have breakfast or lunch.
Blackwater Open Farm
Address: Ballynaclash, Blackwater, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Blackwater Open Farm
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
12. Pay a visit to Johnstown Castle & Gardens
Johnstown Castle has an interesting history and provides visitors with great insight into the area’s history. The castle was constructed in the 19th century, however the estate itself is much older. The Esmondes were the first owners of the estate in the 12th century. It changed hands over the years, until the Grogan family acquired it in the late 1600s and they owned it until 1945. Today, visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn about its history. The estate also has a stunning garden which includes a lake and walking paths. And the site is also home to the Irish Agricultural Museum so you can visit both attractions and make a full day of it.
Johnstown Castle & Gardens
Address: Johnstown Castle Estate, Oldtown Ln, Johnstown, Murrintown, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Johnstown Castle & Gardens
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 5pm
Price: 15 USD
13. Check out the arts and crafts workshop at Wells House and Gardens
Wells House and Gardens dates all the way back to the 1600s, when it was owned by a man called John Warren. Since then it’s changed families a few times and is today owned and operated by the Rosler family. You can take a tour of the house, where a guide will share its history. Take a walk through the gardens which offers woodland walks and a play area. The garden also has an animal farm and Craft Courtyard, an area where local businesses can sell their wares. They even put on arts and crafts workshops where you can learn to do things like make a birdhouse and build a teddy bear—check the website to keep up to date with timings as these change seasonally.
Wells House and Gardens
Address: Ballyedmond, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Wells House and Gardens
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 11 USD
14. Relax and unwind by Our Lady’s Island Lake
Our Lady's island Co Wexford.
Posted by Kevin Carroll photography on Sunday, 23 July 2017
The lake at Our Lady’s Island is both a saltwater and a freshwater lake. The lake itself is freshwater but water from the Atlantic Ocean seeps in, increasing the salt content. At the north end of the lake sits Our Lady’s Island, a small village which features a castle and ruins of a church. The island is famed for being a pilgrimage site. Every August, pilgrims make their way to the castle, where they pray. But even if you’re not making a pilgrimage, the lake makes for a beautiful area to walk and enjoy nature. It’s a great place to bird watch, enjoy the sight and smell of wild garlic, and take in the historic buildings around you.
15. Get to know about the natural habitat and behaviours of seals at Courtown Seal Rescue Centre
Moss <3 #ThoseEyes ?
Posted by Seal Rescue Ireland on Friday, 5 July 2019
Our next option is perfect for all you animal lovers. Courtown Seal Rescue Centre aims to care for grey and common seals found along Ireland’s coast. They have rehabilitated and released a whopping 350 seals since 2014. The centre is open daily and visitors can see their rescue efforts first hand. Volunteer interns are on hand to offer tours and share information about the rehabilitation process. It’s a great way to get up and close with these cute creatures!
Courtown Seal Rescue Centre
Address: Courtown, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Courtown Seal Rescue Centre
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
16. Learn about the lifestyle of Patrick Kennedy at The Kennedy Homestead
Did you know the Kennedy family were originally from Ireland and many descendants still live in County Wexford? Patrick Kennedy, American president John F. Kennedy’s great-grandfather was born there, on the site which is know known as The Kennedy Homestead. The Homestead is now a museum and is dedicated to exploring the lives of the Kennedy’s who moved away from Ireland and those who stayed. At the visitor centre, you’ll find an interactive exhibition which explores Patrick Kennedy’s immigration to America and follows the story of the Kennedy’s in the US. On site there’s also a gift shop and picnic area. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of this famous family’s history, as well as learning about family members who are still based in Ireland today.
The Kennedy Homestead
Address: Dunganstown, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: The Kennedy Homestead
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
17. Visit the second-oldest operating lighthouse in the world, Hook Lighthouse
Standing tall at the tip of Hook Peninsula, you’ll find Hook Lighthouse. The lighthouse was first constructed way back in 1172 and it is actually the world’s second oldest operating lighthouse. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lighthouse. You’ll climb 115 steps and learn about life in medieval times as well as life as a lighthouse keeper. From the balcony of the lighthouse, you’ll see miles and miles of beautiful blue sea. In the visitor centre, there’s an exhibition space and of course a gift shop. A visit to Hook Lighthouse makes for a great day out—you can explore the lighthouse’s history while also enjoying the scenery of the Irish coast.
Hook Lighthouse
Address: Churchtown, Hook Head, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Hook Lighthouse
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 7 USD
18. Be a live spectator of Wexford Festival Opera
If you find yourself in Wexford in October or November then why not stop by Wexford Festival Opera? This opera festival got its start in 1951 and today is one of the best opera festivals in the world. As a result of the festival’s success, Wexford has built a state-of-the-art opera house where some of the operas are performed each year. In addition to catching performances, you can also watch recitals, listen to lectures, and attend parties. It’s the place to be if you’re an opera fan!
Wexford Festival Opera
Address: High St, Ferrybank South, Wexford, Y35 FEP3, Ireland
Website: Wexford Festival Opera
Opening hours: Varies by performance
Price: Varies by performance
19. Check out the interesting exhibits at Dunbrody Famine Ship
The Dunbrody Famine Ship is a great way to learn more about Ireland’s history. The ship is a reproduction of an emigrant vessel from the 1840s. Visitors will receive a tour of the ship and through costumed performers and exhibitions will learn about the history of the Great Famine and those who emigrated during that tough time. There’s also an Irish American Hall of Fame which commemorates Irish men and women who have contributed to American history. There’s a riverside cafe where you can enjoy a snack while thinking about the exhibitions you’ve just seen.
Dunbrody Famine Ship
Address: N Quay New Ross, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Dunbrody Famine Ship
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD
20. Enjoy a guided tour inside the Loftus Hall
If you’re a fan of horror films, Halloween, and all things spooky, then a trip to Loftus Hall is right up your alley. Loftus Hall dates back to 1350, and before that a castle stood on the site dating back to 1170. Today, visitors flock to the Hall to see its ornate design. And it’s also said to be haunted by the devil. Legend has it that a stranger was welcomed into the home after his ship crashed into the harbour. One night, the lady of the house discovered this stranger had cloven hoofs where he should have had feet—and she never recovered from the shock! If you fancy seeing this spooky space for yourself, you can go for a tour which includes a re-enactment of that fateful night. And if you’re feeling extra brave, you can even get locked in the Hall, experiencing the place in the dead of night. And if hunting down the paranormal isn’t quite your cup of tea, you can enjoy a guided tour during the day, where you can enjoy the architecture and splendour of the Hall.
Loftus Hall
Address: Hook Head, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Loftus Hall
Opening hours: 11am - 5pm (daily)
Price: From 4 USD
21. Catch a live comedy performance at National Opera House
Wexford’s National Opera House has been around since 2008, following the success of the Wexford Festival Opera, as discussed in number 18. It’s a venue for both Irish and international events, including music, comedy, and of course opera. The calendar changes all the time so do keep an eye on their website to see what’s on during your visit. A visit to the National Opera House makes for a great date night. The bar opens at 7pm on performance nights so enjoy a drink before the show starts. Then, enjoy the performance in this state-of-the-art theatre.
National Opera House
Address: High St, Ferrybank South, Wexford, Y35 FEP3, Ireland
Website: National Opera House
Opening hours: Varies by event
Price: Varies by event
22. Feed the animals at Secret Valley Wildlife Park
Secret Valley Wildlife Park encompasses a whopping 14 acres (5.6 hectares) of Irish countryside. This family-run zoo offers talks with zookeepers, opportunities to feed the animals, and of course plenty of time to watch the animals in their habitats. From tortoises to goats and meerkats to horses, there’s loads of animals to see and interact with. And of course there’s a cafe and picnic area so you can take a lunch break when you’re hungry.
Secret Valley Wildlife Park
Address: Coolnacon, Clonroche, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: Secret Valley Wildlife Park
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 11 USD
23. Take your family for a picnic at John F. Kennedy Arboretum
The John F. Kennedy Arboretum is a great place to visit if you’re a nature lover. The arboretum covers 623 acres (252 hectares), and features a wide variety of flora for your viewing pleasure. You’ll find 4,500 trees and shrubs from around the world and more than 500 types of rhododendron and azaleas. One of the arboretum’s most popular spots it the lake, and if it’s a nice day, we recommend packing a lunch and enjoying a picnic by the water. You can also walk up to the summit and enjoy the view of Hook Peninsula.
John F. Kennedy Arboretum
Address: Ballysop, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Website: John F. Kennedy Arboretum
Opening hours: Varies by season
Price: 6 USD
24. Pay a visit to the last surviving windmill of Tucumshane Windmill
Tucumshane Windmill was built in 1846 and was in use until 1936. This means it was Ireland’s last commercially operating windmill. Today it’s a national monument and features a thatched roof which revolves. It’s also built of driftwood from shipwrecks along the coast. So what do you have to do to tour the lighthouse? Simply turn up at the neighbouring restaurant, Millhouse Bar and Restaurnt, and ask for the key! You’ll be free to wander the lighthouse, and of course there’s a place nearby to stop when you get hungry or fancy a pint.
Tucumshane Windmill
Address: Tucumshane, Wexford, Ireland
Website: Tucumshane Windmill
Opening hours: 12pm - 7pm (daily)
25. Take a leisurely stroll on Ballycarney Bridge
When you feel like stretching your legs, why not go for a walk across Ballycarney Bridge? Sitting atop the River Slaney, you’ll have beautiful views on a nice sunny day. But we recommend going even if it’s rainy (it is Ireland after all)—the rain will make your trip across very atmospheric. This stone bridge, dating back to 1780, is partially covered in ivy and features eight arches. It’s the perfect picturesque spot to stretch your legs.
26. Take a close-up shot of the Nicky Rackard Statue
In Selskar Square you’ll find a life-size bronze statue of an Irish sports hero, Nicky Rackard. Rackard was a legend in the sport of hurling, which has ancient Gaelic and Irish origins and involves using sticks to try and get a ball into the goal. Rackard is considered to be one of the best players of all time, beating many records. He was a Wexford native and now the town has honoured him with a sculpture. Stop by and take some pictures of this Wexford hero.
27. Relish some modern Irish cuisine at Green Acres restaurant
When you get hungry, stop by Green Acres, a restaurant serving up modern Irish fare. The dinner menu features dishes like grilled lamb cutlet and pan fried duck breast. They also have a chef’s vegetarian special and an excellent dessert menu. And they’ve got a whole wall of wines so you can get an excellent glass of vino with your meal. On top of making great foods they also have a food hall where you can purchase cheeses and gift hampers and upstairs is an art gallery with a regular rotation of exhibitions.
Green Acres
Address: Selskar, Wexford, Y35 RW7C, Ireland
Website: Green Acres
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 10pm (closed on Sun)
28. Gulp down some exquisite drinks at Crown Bar Wexford
Crown Bar mixes vintage charm with modern vibrancy. It opened in 2015 after a renovation, and features comfortable sofas, brick walls, and a decorative ceiling. During the day, it’s a great spot to catch up with friends over lunch or a coffee. But if it’s an adult drink you’re after, they’ve got an extensive menu. Whether you prefer a craft beer or a nice wine, they’ve got you covered. And they have plenty of cocktails as well. They even have an events venue so take a look at their calendar to see if a gig is on during your visit.
Crown Bar Wexford
Address: Monck St, Ferrybank South, Wexford, Y35 XC95, Ireland
Website: Crown Bar Wexford
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 6pm - 11:30pm; Wed: 12pm - 11pm; Thu: 12pm - 11:30pm; Fri: 12pm - 2am; Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 11pm
29. Hit the dance floor at The Centenary Stores
If you fancy dancing the night away, make sure you hit up The Centenary Stores. This nightclub is housed in a former warehouse which actually has two areas. Downstairs you’ll find a pub where you’ll find locals congregating. But there’s also The Backroom, where younger locals come to dance and mingle. They even hosts events like hen dos and can privately rent out the space. After a day of exploring Wexford, why not come here and dance to the music?
The Centenary Stores
Address: Charlotte St, Ferrybank South, Wexford, Ireland
Website: The Centenary Stores
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 24 hours; Fri: 11am - 12am
30. Pick up a new outfit at The Loft
Posted by The Loft - Wexford on Monday, 12 August 2019
We’ll end our list with The Loft, a women’s clothing store. It’s the perfect place to stop if you’re looking to spruce up your wardrobe. They regularly get in new stock of the season’s popular items so their inventory will be up-to-date. Their prices are also reasonable so it won’t cost and arm and a leg to stay fashionable. The employees are also friendly and accommodating so if you need a bit of help while you’re there, don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
The Loft
Address: 94 N Main St, Ferrybank South, Wexford, Y35 D218, Ireland
Website: The Loft
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5:30pm
So many attractions in Wexford
The historic, riverside town of Wexford offers plenty of attractions for tourists to explore. Like heritage? Check out Tintern Abbey or Johnstown Castle. Prefer nature? Then head to Curracloe Beach or the lake at Our Lady’s Island. There’s certainly no shortage of things to explore. So make note of your favourites and start planning your trip to Wexford, Ireland.
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