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My Ireland

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities
  • #Landmarks

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    Step aboard the Dunbrody Famine Ship

    Discover tales of trouble and new beginnings onboard this reproduction 19th century ship
    • #GuidedTours
    • #HistoricIreland
    • #IrelandsAncientEast
    County Wexford
    Culture & Heritage
    1 hr 55 mins from Dublin Airport

    Starting in 1845, the Great Famine caused millions of people to board ships and journey across the Atlantic Ocean in the hope of finding a better life.

    At the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, County Wexford, you can discover what life was like for Irish emigrants as they set off on this life-changing journey. The experience starts just as it did in the 19th century at the William Graves & Son ticket office on the quays, before you step onto the replica famine ship.

    During the guided tour, you’ll be transported to 1849 as you listen to the tales of other passengers, read letters from those who already made it to America, and explore the rooms, captain’s cabin and crew quarters. This type of ship was often referred to as a “coffin ship”. As you explore the cramped quarters downstairs – where passengers endured horrific conditions often with death rates of 30% common – it’s easy to see why. The Dunbrody Famine Ship had lower casualty rates than other ships due to the more compassionate actions of its captains, but the conditions give an insight into what others on similar ships would have endured. In the Irish America Hall of Fame, you can learn about the achievements of Irish Americans who made their mark on the world including actor Maureen O’Hara, President Joe Biden and dancer Jean Butler.

    The Dunbrody Famine Ship, County Wexford

    Need to know

    1

    The Dunbrody Famine Ship is open seven days a week (except on Christmas Day and St Stephen’s Day) and tours run every hour. The ship is permanently moored and doesn’t set sail.

    2

    Enjoy a delicious dining experience with scenic views over the River Barrow at the Captain’s Table Restaurant located within the Visitor Centre.

    3

    The tour is wheelchair and buggy accessible. There is a lift onboard the ship that enables visitors to reach the lower decks.

    Things to see and do nearby

    The Wexford Slobs and Wildfowl Reserve

    The Wexford Slobs and Wildfowl Reserve in Castlebridge, County Wexford are a natural haven for birds. Home to large flocks of geese, ducks and wading birds during the winter, with as many as 8,000 Greenland White-Fronted Geese going there.

    Wexford

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    Attraction

    Dunbrody Abbey and Visitor Centre

    Founded in 1210, Dunbrody Abbey is one of the finest examples of a Cistercian monastery in Ireland. Located in Campile, County Wexford, today the abbey features a modern visitor centre and has plenty to offer visitors to the area.

    Wexford

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    Attraction

    Seal Rescue Ireland

    Seal Rescue Ireland, in Courtown, County Wexford, is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick, injured and orphaned seal pups from around Ireland. Meet the rescued seal pups and learn all about the rehabilitation process.

    Wexford

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    Attraction

    Marlfield House & Gardens

    Marlfield House & Gardens are located in Gorey, County Wexford. This beautiful regency period house, originally part of the Courtown Estate, is set on 36 acres of gardens and grounds.

    Wexford

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    Attraction

    The Lobster Pot Pub and Restaurant

    Wexford

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    Attraction

    Wexford Lavender Farm

    Wexford Lavender Farm is a 10 minute drive from Gorey, County Wexford. Lavender is one of the best known and loved of all herbs and you will find it here in abundance as well as lots of attractions to keep the children entertained.

    Wexford

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    Attraction

    Dunbrody Country House Hotel

    Dunbrody Country House Hotel are members of Ireland's Blue Book. Dunbrody offers its guests luxury accommodation, fine dining, a world renowned cookery school and a very chic and intimate spa.

    4/5

    Wexford

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    Accommodation

    St Aidan's Cathedral

    St. Aidan's Cathedral, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, for which the foundation stone was laid in 1843,was the largest church Pugin built in Ireland.

    Wexford

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    Attraction