County Wexford

Wexford takes two Irish staples – historic attractions and breathtaking landscapes – to radiant new heights. How? Nowhere on the island gets more sunshine each year than this south-eastern gem. Spend long, balmy days among abbey ruins, fairy-tale castles and towering lighthouses. Swim in the rejuvenating Irish Sea at some of the island’s most pristine beaches and pick famously delicious Wexford strawberries on an idyllic fruit farm. Wexford town and other urban hubs are just as vibrant, with locals hosting the magnificent Wexford Festival Opera every autumn. Culture, craic and coastal charm – Wexford shines bright.

The past takes on epic proportions in Wexford. You can uncover a staggering 9,000 years of history at the Irish National Heritage Park, from the Stone Age to the Vikings and beyond. On the dramatic Hook Peninsula, 800-year-old Hook Lighthouse is said to be the oldest operational lighthouse in the world.

Impressive Tintern Abbey was founded for the Cistercians in 1200 but, by the 16th century, it had passed into the hands of the Colclough family, who lived there for the next 400 years. Wander the atmospheric ruins of the old abbey before visiting the restored Colclough Walled Garden. Wexford’s other great Cistercian legacy is Dunbrody Abbey, built on the orders of legendary Anglo-Norman knight Strongbow. 

Wexford also plays an important part in Ireland’s emigration story. Discover incredible tales of bravery at Dunbrody Famine Ship, a reproduction of an 1840s vessel that carried thousands of Irish emigrants to America during the Great Famine. That emigrant story comes full circle with a visit to the Kennedy Homestead, ancestral home of US President John F Kennedy.

Wexford was the epicentre of the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland. You can still see traces of the conquest in surviving Norman castles at Enniscorthy, Ferns and Ferrycarrig, the oldest Norman stronghold in Ireland.

For a very different look at castle life, enjoy the Gothic Revival grandeur of Johnstown Castle. Adorned by turrets and towers, the castle is set in stunning gardens designed by well-known 19th-century garden designer Daniel Robertson. Another of Robertson’s formal gardens can be found nearby at the elegant Wells House and Gardens.

Discover more castles around Ireland’s Ancient East

With 250km of coastline, Wexford is home to some of the finest beaches in Ireland. The golden sands, windswept dunes and expansive views of Curracloe Beach landed it a starring role in both Saving Private Ryan and Brooklyn. Meanwhile, secluded coves like Baginbun and Dollar Bay offer an escape from a busy world.

If you’re looking for adventure, try a coasteering or sea cave kayaking trip with The Irish Experience. It’s the perfect way to make a splash on these sublime shores.

Walkers and hikers will enjoy Wexford’s rich and varied terrain, which includes everything from coastal trails to riverside walks and mountain hikes. Try the scenic Cahore Cliff Walk or challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Mount Leinster, the highest peak in the Blackstairs Mountains.

For a unique Wexford experience, catch the ferry to the Saltee Islands, one of Europe’s most important breeding grounds for puffins, gannets, razorbills and guillemots, and follow the looped walk on Great Saltee.

Try these exhilarating coastal walks around Ireland

North of Wexford is County Wicklow. To see why it’s known as “the Garden of Ireland”, visit stunning spots such as Powerscourt Estate and Mount Usher Gardens. Or get active in Wicklow Mountains National Park, making sure to stop by the 6th-century monastic settlement of Glendalough along the way.

Go south to County Waterford to uncover the Viking origins of Ireland’s oldest city – Waterford. Love to walk or cycle? Don’t miss the Waterford Greenway, a 46km car-free pathway along a former railway track. Then enjoy postcard-perfect seaside vibes – think super-fresh seafood and cute thatched cottages – on a visit to Dunmore East.

Head inland for the old-world charm of Kilkenny city. Wander the Medieval Mile, gaze in awe at Kilkenny Castle and lose yourself in the city’s maze of cobbled lanes and traditional music pubs.

Wexford is the perfect destination to enjoy the tranquil beauty and fascinating history of Ireland’s Ancient East. Start planning your adventure today.