Wexford is a beautiful county in southeastern Ireland, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its Viking past, golden beaches, and lively festivals, Wexford is a perfect destination for travellers of all interests. Whether you love exploring ancient sites, enjoying coastal landscapes, or experiencing Irish traditions, Wexford has something for you. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit in Wexford and why they should be on your travel list.
1. Hook Lighthouse – A 853-Year-Old Landmark
One of Wexford’s most iconic attractions is Hook Lighthouse, the oldest working lighthouse in the world. Standing tall for over 850 years, this lighthouse offers stunning ocean views. Visitors can climb to the top for a breathtaking sight of the Atlantic Ocean and take guided tours to learn about its long and fascinating history. There’s also a café and gift shop where you can relax after your visit. If you’re visiting during stormy weather, watching the waves crash against the rocks from the lighthouse is an unforgettable experience.
2. Irish National Heritage Park – A Journey Through Time
The Irish National Heritage Park is an open-air museum that showcases Ireland’s history from the Stone Age to the Norman period. Visitors can explore full-size reconstructions of ancient homes, forts, and burial sites. This is a great place for families and history lovers, as it offers interactive experiences like crafting workshops and guided storytelling tours. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try an overnight stay in a traditional crannog, a wooden house built on a lake, just like the ancient Celts used to live in.
3. Tintern Abbey – A Historic Monastery in Nature
Tintern Abbey is a peaceful and picturesque ruin of a 13th-century monastery. It is surrounded by lush woodlands and walking trails, making it a great spot for relaxation. Nearby, you can also visit the Colclough Walled Garden, a beautifully restored historic garden with colorful flowers, herbs, and fruit trees. Nature lovers and photographers will really enjoy this hidden spot. Exploring the Abbey in the early morning or late evening offers a magical experience, as the soft light makes the ancient stone walls glow beautifully.
4. Johnstown Castle & Gardens – A Fairytale-Like Experience
Johnstown Castle is a stunning Gothic-style castle surrounded by lakes, woodlands, and beautiful gardens. It is home to the Irish Agricultural Museum, which gives insights into Ireland’s farming history. The castle gardens are perfect for peaceful walks, while the lake area provides a chance to see swans and other wildlife. Visitors can also take guided tours inside the castle to admire its well-preserved architecture and antique furnishings.
5. Curracloe Beach – Famous Golden Sands
Curracloe Beach is one of Ireland’s most stunning beaches. With soft golden sands and rolling dunes, it is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks. The beach became famous for its role in the Hollywood movie Saving Private Ryan, where the dramatic D-Day scenes were filmed. It’s a must-visit for both movie fans and nature lovers. The beach stretches for several kilometre’s, making it perfect for those who love peaceful, long walks by the sea.
6. The Saltee Islands – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
For those who love wildlife and adventure, the Saltee Islands are a perfect destination. These islands, located off the coast of Wexford, are home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and razorbills. You can take a boat trip from Kilmore Quay to explore these beautiful islands and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. The main island, Great Saltee, is privately owned but allows visitors to land for day trips. Make sure to bring your camera, as the cliffs and ocean views create stunning photo opportunities.
7. Raven Nature Reserve – A Walk Through Nature
Close to Curracloe Beach, the Raven Nature Reserve is a peaceful woodland area with scenic walking trails. The mix of forest and beach makes it an ideal place for nature walks, birdwatching, and photography. It’s a great way to experience Wexford’s natural beauty in a quiet and relaxing setting. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some red squirrels or deer along the trails.
8. Wexford Opera Festival – A World-Class Event
The Wexford Opera Festival is one of the biggest cultural events in Ireland. Every October, opera lovers from around the world come to enjoy top-class performances. The festival has gained a strong reputation for showcasing rare and lesser-known operas. Even if you’re not an opera fan, the festival’s lively atmosphere is worth experiencing. During the festival, the entire town of Wexford comes alive with music, street performances, and special events.
9. Wexford Spiegeltent Festival – Music, Comedy & Entertainment
For those who enjoy live music, comedy, and theatre, the Wexford Spiegeltent Festival is a must-visit. This festival, held in a vintage-style tent, offers a mix of performances, from famous musicians to stand-up comedians. It’s a great way to enjoy Wexford’s vibrant arts scene. The unique venue, with its colourful mirrors and old-world charm, creates an intimate and exciting atmosphere for performances.
10. Traditional Irish Pubs & Local Food
No visit to Wexford is complete without experiencing its traditional pubs and delicious food. Many pubs offer live Irish music, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Some popular pubs to visit include:
The Sky & The Ground – Known for its great drinks and live music.
Simon Lambert & Sons – Offers craft beers and a lively setting.
When it comes to food, Wexford is famous for fresh seafood. Try dishes like fish and chips, seafood chowder, or locally caught lobster at restaurants like The Lobster Pot in Carne or The Silver Fox in Kilmore Quay. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to try Wexford strawberries, which are some of the sweetest and juiciest in Ireland.
Travel Tips for Wexford
Best Time to Visit
Wexford is great to visit all year round, but the best time is from April to September when the weather is mild and sunny. If you love festivals, visiting in October for the Wexford Opera Festival is also a great choice. Spring and early summer are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and beach visits.
How to Get There
Wexford is well-connected to Dublin and other cities. You can travel by:
Car – A two-hour drive from Dublin via the M11 motorway.
Train – Direct trains run from Dublin’s Connolly Station to Wexford.
Bus – Express buses operate from Dublin Airport and Dublin city center.
Where to Stay
Wexford offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some top choices include:
Clayton Whites Hotel – A stylish hotel in the heart of Wexford town.
Talbot Hotel Wexford – Offers great sea views and top amenities.
Killiane Castle Country House & Farm – A unique stay in a historic castle setting.
Wexford is a county filled with history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you want to explore ancient sites, relax on golden beaches, or enjoy lively festivals, Wexford has something for everyone. With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder Wexford is one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations.
Have you visited Wexford? Share your favourite attractions in the comments below!
