Wexford Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful county of Wexford in Southeast Ireland with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Your Comprehensive Travel Guide to Wexford, Ireland

Located in Southeast Ireland, Wexford is a vibrant and picturesque county with a rich history, natural beauty, and a thriving food and drink scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring the county’s cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the lively local culture, Wexford has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover all the must-visit places, the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and everything else you need to know to plan your trip to Wexford.

List of Places to Visit in Wexford

Wexford has a wealth of attractions, from museums and historical sites to natural wonders and scenic landscapes. Here are some of the top places to visit during your time in the county:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hook lighthouse: The world’s oldest intact operational lighthouse, Hook Lighthouse offers stunning views and a glimpse into the history of Ireland’s maritime past.
  • Irish National Heritage Park: An outdoor museum that recreates Ireland’s history from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
  • Dunbrody Famine Ship: A replica of a 19th-century emigrant ship, this museum tells the story of the Irish who left their homeland in search of a better life.
  • Vinegar Hill: A historic battlefield that played a crucial role in the 1798 Rebellion, Vinegar Hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Wexford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wexford Wildfowl Reserve: A paradise for bird watchers, the reserve is home to a variety of waterfowl species and offers nature trails and observation hides.
  • Curracloe Beach: With 7 miles of golden sand dunes and crystal-clear waters, Curracloe Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ireland.
  • Johnstown Castle: A stunning Victorian-era castle surrounded by beautiful lakes and gardens, Johnstown Castle is a must-visit for nature lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
  • Mount Leinster: The highest peak in County Wexford offers panoramic views of the countryside and is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wexford

The beautiful landscapes of Wexford also make it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the top trails and routes are:

  • Slieve Coillte: A challenging hike up the mountain, offering panoramic views of the countryside.
  • Kilmore Quay: A scenic coastal trail, perfect for a leisurely bike ride with stunning views of the sea.

Best Things to Do in Wexford: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions and natural wonders, Wexford also offers a range of activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do during your trip:

  • Wexford Festival Opera: One of Ireland’s premier cultural events, the Wexford Festival Opera offers a world-class program of opera and other performing arts.
  • Irish National Heritage Park Adventure Activities: From archery and kayaking to axe throwing and team building activities, the park offers an exciting range of outdoor activities.
  • Wells House and Gardens: A stunning estate with beautifully manicured gardens, Wells House also offers a range of activities including archery, clay pigeon shooting, and falconry.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wexford

To make the most of your trip to Wexford, we’ve put together a comprehensive week-long itinerary that includes all the top attractions and things to do in the county:

Day 1: Arrive and check into your accommodation.

Day 2: Visit Hook Lighthouse and explore the historic town of Wexford.

Day 3: Take a trip to the Irish National Heritage Park and spend the day exploring the recreation of Ireland’s history.

Day 4: Spend the day hiking or biking on Slieve Coillte or Ballyteigue Burrow.

Day 5: Visit the stunning Johnstown Castle and the tranquil lake area around it.

Day 6: Explore the beautiful coast of Wexford and enjoy a leisurely day at Curracloe Beach or go on a whale watching tour.

Day 7: Take a trip to the beautiful Mount Leinster and soak in the scenic views.

Food and Drink Scene of Wexford

Wexford is renowned for its fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and locally-sourced produce, making it a food lover’s paradise. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to try during your trip:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood chowder: A hearty and delicious seafood dish, made with locally-sourced seafood and served in many restaurants across Wexford.
  • Coddle: A traditional Irish dish made with sausages, bacon, and potatoes.
  • Blaa: A soft and doughy bread roll, originating from Wexford and often served with Irish cheddar and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • O’Hara’s Irish Craft Beer: A local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers, including an award-winning Irish stout.
  • Wexford cider: A refreshing and delicious local cider made with locally grown apples.

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

Wexford has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the top options include:

  • Clayton Whites Hotel: A centrally located luxury hotel, with beautifully decorated rooms and excellent dining options.
  • Inishross House Bed and Breakfast: A warm and welcoming guesthouse, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • The Old Deanery Cottages: A cozy and charming self-catering cottage, perfect for families or couples.

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

Wexford is home to a range of artisanal shops and craft markets, where you can buy locally made products and souvenirs. Here are some of the top places to visit:

  • Wexford Craft Trail: A network of over 20 artisanal craft shops, where you can purchase everything from pottery and jewelry to textiles and woodcraft.
  • Greenacres Gallery and Food Store: A beautifully curated shop, selling a range of locally made foods and wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Wexford

Wexford is steeped in history and heritage, and the local culture reflects this. The people here are warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of community. Here are some of the customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • The Wexford Opera Festival: A cultural highlight of the year, the Wexford Opera Festival is a must-visit for opera lovers, and it’s celebrated annually in October.
  • The Wexford Spiegeltent Festival: A vibrant and eclectic festival featuring live music, art, and theater in a unique and intimate venue.

Best Time to Visit Wexford

The best time to visit Wexford is in the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is at its warmest and the local events calendar is full of cultural and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wexford

To stay safe and respectful during your time in Wexford, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Explore the natural attractions and enjoy the scenic countryside

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the local environment
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their property
  • Get too rowdy or drunk in public places

Safety and Health

Wexford is a safe and friendly county with little crime, however, it’s always important to keep safety and health in mind when travelling. Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy during your visit:

Safety in Wexford

  • Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night
  • Pay attention to warning signs and follow safety instructions when engaging in outdoor activities

Health in Wexford

  • Make sure you have adequate travel insurance
  • Stay hydrated and use sunscreen when spending time outdoors
  • Be mindful of any allergies or health conditions, and carry necessary medications with you

Getting to Wexford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wexford is well-connected and easy to reach, whether you’re flying, driving or taking public transportation. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near Wexford

  • Waterford Airport: Located 50 km from Wexford, Waterford Airport offers domestic and international flights.
  • Dublin Airport: A major international airport located approximately 150 km from Wexford, with direct flights from many global destinations.

Bus Stations Near Wexford

  • Wexford Bus Station: Located in the center of Wexford town, the bus station offers regular services to Dublin, Waterford and other towns in the surrounding area.

Other Options

  • Ferry: The Rosslare Europort is located just outside Wexford and offers ferry services to the UK and Continental Europe.
  • Driving: Wexford is conveniently located on the N11/M11 and N25 highways, with easy access to Dublin and other parts of Ireland.

How to Get Around in Wexford

Wexford is a small and easy-to-navigate county, with a range of transport options:

  • Bus: Local buses operate throughout the day, serving the towns and surrounding areas.
  • Car Hire: Car hire companies are available in Wexford town and at the Rosslare Europort.
  • Bike Hire: Bike hire companies are available in Wexford town and offer a great way to explore the countryside at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Wexford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the area, there are many nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting, such as:

  • Waterford: A vibrant and historic city, home to the famous Waterford Crystal factory.
  • Kilkenny: A historic city with impressive medieval buildings and a rich cultural scene.
  • Rosslare Strand: A charming coastal village with beautiful beaches and a range of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Wexford is a magical county, steeped in history and natural beauty, with friendly locals, vibrant culture, and amazing food and drink. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit and explore everything this amazing destination has to offer. Safe travels and enjoy your trip to Wexford!

"The Pikeman", a memorial to the rebels of 1798 in the Bullring Johnstown Castle Johnstown Castle Reconstructed Neolithic farmstead in the National Heritage Park Reconstructed Neolithic farmstead in the National Heritage Park Selskar Abbey Selskar Abbey Church of the Assumption Church of the Assumption