County Wexford Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of County Wexford with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural landmarks to scenic routes, we've got you covered.


Introduction to County Wexford

With its rich history, stunning coastline, and charming towns, County Wexford is a hidden gem in Southeast Ireland. Located on the east coast, Wexford is blessed with natural beauty and a friendly local community.

List of Places to Visit in County Wexford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hook Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse, dating back to the 13th century, is a must-see attraction in Wexford.
  • Irish National Heritage Park: Learn about Ireland’s ancient past in this outdoor museum that showcases the country’s history through interactive exhibitions and guided tours.
  • Enniscorthy Castle: A well-preserved 16th-century castle that provides a glimpse into Wexford’s past.
  • Johnstown Castle: A stunning castle that offers visitors a chance to explore its beautiful gardens and lakeside trails.
  • Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience: A unique museum that tells the story of Irish emigration during the Great Famine.

Natural Attractions of County Wexford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rosslare Strand: One of the most beautiful beaches in the country, Rosslare Strand offers sweeping views of the ocean and has plenty of water sports.
  • Blackstairs Mountains: The perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers, this mountain range is beautiful and challenging.
  • Ballyteigue Bay: This stunning bay is home to a variety of bird species and offers visitors a chance to explore its sandy beaches and natural landscapes.
  • Wexford Wildfowl Reserve: A wonderful place to experience nature and the great outdoors, Wexford Wildfowl Reserve features a range of habitats and wildlife.
  • Saltee Islands: Take a boat tour to these uninhabited islands to see puffins, seals, and other marine life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Wexford

  • The Three Rocks Trail: A moderate hiking trail that takes visitors up to three iconic rocks for incredible views.
  • The Raven Point Trail: This stunning coastal trail offers beautiful views of the sea and the landscape and is perfect for hiking and cycling.
  • The Wexford Coastal Trail: An easy, scenic route that takes visitors along the coastline, providing stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands.
  • Vinegar Hill: A historic hill that provides a challenging but rewarding hike and spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in County Wexford: Activities and Tours

  • Wexford Opera Festival: This internationally renowned festival takes place every October and features some of the best opera productions in the world.
  • Dunmore East Adventure Centre: Perfect for thrill-seekers, this adventure centre offers a range of activities, including kayaking, sailing, and rock climbing.
  • Quadventure: This outdoor adventure park offers quad biking, archery, and clay pigeon shooting.
  • Wexford Walking Tours: Take a guided tour of Wexford’s charming streets and learn about the town’s fascinating history.
  • Visit a Local Farm: Discover the vibrant agricultural community of Wexford by visiting one of the many local farms.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Wexford

Day Activity
1 Visit National Irish Heritage Park
2 Hike Raven Point
3 Explore Enniscorthy Castle
4 Walk the Wexford Coastal Trail
5 Visit Saltee Islands
6 Learn about the Great Famine at Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience
7 Spend a day at Rosslare Strand

Food and Drink Scene of County Wexford

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: Wexford’s location on the coast means that fresh fish is abundant, and there are plenty of excellent seafood restaurants to choose from.
  • Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake that can be stuffed with a variety of fillings.
  • Seafood Chowder: A hearty soup made with locally-caught seafood and vegetables.
  • Wexford Strawberries: Known for their sweet and juicy flavor, these strawberries are a must-try during the season.

Local Beverages

  • Wexford Ale: A popular local beer that is brewed in a traditional style with natural ingredients.
  • Yola Whiskey: A premium whiskey that is made with locally-sourced barley and water.

Where to Stay in County Wexford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa: Located on Rosslare Strand, this luxury hotel offers stunning views and top-notch amenities.
  • Amber Springs Hotel: A family-friendly hotel that features an outdoor adventure park and a range of activities for all ages.
  • The Riverside Park Hotel: Located in the heart of Wexford town, this hotel offers guests a chance to explore the town’s vibrant streets and landmarks.

What to Buy in County Wexford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wexford Pottery: Beautiful, handmade pottery that is crafted by local artists.
  • Handknit Sweaters: Traditional Irish sweaters that are made with high-quality wool and are perfect for keeping warm in the colder months.
  • Wexford Strawberries: Bring home a taste of Wexford with a basket of sweet, juicy strawberries.

Local Culture and Customs of County Wexford

Wexford has a strong sense of community and is proud of its rich cultural heritage. The town has a lively arts scene, with several galleries and theatres, as well as a strong tradition of music and dance.

Best Time to Visit County Wexford

The best time to visit Wexford is between May and September, when the weather is mild and the town is bustling with tourists and locals enjoying the many outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Wexford

Do:

  • Do explore the town’s charming streets and landmarks.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beer.
  • Do take part in outdoor activities like hiking and watersports.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring a raincoat – the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations – they are friendly and eager to share their knowledge of the town.
  • Don’t underestimate the beauty of the countryside – make sure to take time to explore the natural landscape.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Wexford

Wexford is generally a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate and a friendly local community. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as keeping their valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings when out at night.

Health in County Wexford

The standard of healthcare in Ireland is high, and visitors can expect to receive excellent medical care if needed. It is recommended that visitors take out travel insurance before visiting, to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to County Wexford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near County Wexford

  • Waterford Airport: Located approximately 50km from Wexford, Waterford Airport offers flights to several destinations within Ireland and the UK.
  • Dublin Airport: The largest airport in Ireland, Dublin Airport is approximately 150km from Wexford and offers flights to a wide range of destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near County Wexford

  • Wexford Bus: The main bus station in Wexford, with connections to Dublin and other destinations throughout the region.
  • Bus Éireann: The national bus service in Ireland, with connections to Dublin and other destinations across the country.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Wexford by car or by taking the train to nearby stations such as Rosslare Strand.

How to Get Around in County Wexford

The best way to get around Wexford is by car, as this gives visitors the flexibility to explore the countryside and nearby towns. There are also regular bus services that operate throughout the town, and taxis are readily available.

Where to Go Next from County Wexford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Waterford: Home to the famous Waterford Crystal factory and several historic landmarks.
  • Kilkenny: A charming medieval town that is famous for its castle and cathedral.
  • Dublin: The capital city of Ireland, Dublin is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and excellent shopping.

Conclusion

County Wexford is a beautiful destination that has something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures to rich cultural attractions and top-notch food and drink. Whether you are looking for a relaxing break or an action-packed adventure, Wexford is the perfect place to visit.

Wexford Wexford Vinegar Hill, the rebels' last stand Vinegar Hill, the rebels' last stand Ferns was once a capital city Ferns was once a capital city Thousands emigrated on the original ''Dunbrody'' Thousands emigrated on the original ''Dunbrody'' View from Hook Lighthouse View from Hook Lighthouse


    Fethard-on-Sea
    Gorey
    Kilmore Quay
    Rosslare
    Wexford