Is Wexford Really Worth Visiting? Irelands Beautiful Ancient East
Along the southeastern coast of Ireland, you will find the gorgeous county of Wexford. This county offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and sandy beaches. With its picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and vibrant cultural scene, Wexford is a must visit destination while in Ireland.
Wexford has everything from its medieval castles and ancient ruins to streets lined with colorful cottages and traditional pubs, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness while listening to live Irish music. Wexford is also one of the most popular spots in Ireland during the summer months for its gorgeous beaches, scenic coastal walks and outdoor activities to enjoy.
So lets jump into this Wexford travel guide and see is Wexford really worth visiting?
How to Get to Wexford
Wexford is easily accessible by both car and public transportation. If you’re driving, the town is located just off the N11/N25 road network, making it easily reachable from Dublin, Cork, and other major cities in Ireland. There are several car rental companies in Wexford if you prefer to hire a vehicle for your stay.
If you prefer to travel by public transport, there are regular bus services connecting Wexford to Dublin and other major towns in Ireland. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours from Dublin, and bus tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station.
For international traveler’s , the closest airport is Dublin Airport, which offers flights to and from numerous destinations worldwide. From the airport, you can take a bus or train to Wexford, or hire a car and drive yourself.
Where is Wexford in relation to Dublin?
Wexford is one of the most popular holiday destinations for people living in Dublin as depending on exactly where you are in Dublin, Wexford is only about a 90 minute or 2 hour drive from Dublin City. Getting from the city to Wexford is fairly straightforward. There are plenty of public transport options if you’re not interested in driving there yourself. From frequent busses and trains you will be able to get around Wexford no problem.
What is Wexford famous for?
Wexford is known as the Sunny South East as it has the most sunshine hours and least amount of rain in Ireland. For this it has been famous for some of the most beautiful golden beaches which can stretch miles along the coastline. The waters around the coastline are generally calm and safe for swimmers to enjoy due to its geological position and weather.
As well as their sandy beaches Wexford would also be known for the Wexford Greenway which is a 24km cycle route that takes you along old railway lines and Ireland oldest Norman town, New Ross.
Historical and cultural attractions in Wexford
Wexford is home to some of the most iconic historical landmarks in Ireland and there are plenty of historical and cultural attractions to explore. Below I have outlined some of the top attractions you should consider visiting while in Wexford.
Selskar Abbey
You can start your journey at the heart of the town, where you’ll find the impressive Selskar Abbey. This medieval abbey dates back to the 12th century and is a testament to the town’s rich religious heritage. You can take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and admire the intricate stone carvings
Johnstown Castle
This impressive anglo norman castle dates all the way to be 1100’s and has some of the most beautiful gardens. Here you can take a guided tour of the inside of the castle and explore the castles rich history. You can then explore over 4km of picturesque lake and ornamental garden walks. The gardens are full of some of the most beautiful plant forms and wildlife including peacocks.
Enniscorthy Castle
Enniscorthy Castle dates back to the 13th century and was home to Norman Knights, English armies and Irish rebels. Here you can take a self guided your of the castle and explore the castles history and the hands it has been in throughout the years. The castle itself is fairly modern on the inside as it was recently used as a family home before being handed over to the Irish people as a museum.
Must see attractions in Wexford
Dunbrody Famine Ship
Located in New Ross you will find the replica ship of the 1800’s famine ship the Dunbrody. Here you will be transported back to the 1800’s to see what life on board this famous famine ship would have been like for the thousands that used this as transport from Ireland to America. This guided tour uses costumed performers and themed exhibits to take you through this ships rich history.
1798 Rebellion Centre
This award winning visitor centre tells the story of the 1798 rebellion which took place in Enniscorthy on top of Vinegar Hill. This interactive experience will take through the lead up to events and what was happening around Europe to the massacre on Vinegar Hill on 21st June 1798. Using cutting edge technology, this is one of the greatest visitor experiences in Wexford.
Seal Rescue
This is Ireland’s one and only Seal rescue centres. The volunteers here work together to care for seals living across the 3100km of coastline around Wexford. They will house and care for the seals here until they are healthy enough to be released back into the wild. Here you can join the team and go behind the scenes to help feed and play with the seals.
Wexford Walls Project
If you’re a fan of art then Wexford is the place to be. Located throughout each town you will find the “Walls Project” where local artists have created incredible murals around the town. You can explore the town while keeping and eye out for some of these incredible large scale street artworks.
You can find these projects in multiple towns throughout Wexford including, Wexford town, New Ross and Enniscorthy.
Hidden gems in Wexford
While Wexford has its fair share of popular tourist attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Saltee Islands
Nature lovers should make their way to the Saltee Islands, a pair of privately owned islands located off the coast of Wexford. These islands are a paradise for birdwatchers, with thousands of seabirds nesting here during the breeding season. With some of the most popular sightings being puffins during the summer months.
Red Books
This is one of the best little hidden gems in Wexford for book lovers like myself. This small store in St. Peter’s Square area of Wexford town, has hundreds and thousands of books around the small winding corridors of the shop. You can find anything from historical reads, fiction and even DVD’s. You will be wandering around this store for hours.
Green Acres
Located right in the heart of Wexford town, you will find this small restaurant, deli and art gallery. The gallery spreads across two floors and houses over 140 pieces from 50 different artists. The spacious gallery has contemporary art and sculptures and hosts numerous exhibits throughout the year.
Accommodation options in Wexford
Wexford offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, there are several boutique hotels and country manors that offer a touch of elegance and sophistication. Here you can indulge in spa treatments, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
If you prefer a self-catering option, there are also numerous Airbnbs and apartments available for rent. Stay in a traditional thatched cottage or a modern apartment and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Kelly’s Hotel and Resort Rosslare
This family run hotel offers you an incredible stay right on the sandy beach of Rosslare. Kelly’s offers three types of luxury accommodation: standard rooms, junior suites and suites. The standard option provides a warm atmosphere with bath, shower, robe, slippers, TV, hairdryer and safe. You can find more information here.
Bluebell Cottage
This traditional Irish cottage is located in Kilmore quay, Wexford. The self catering house sleeps up to four adults and has been newly renovated on the inside. There is underfloor heating and a modern kitchen. For booking information check here.
Tips for visiting Wexford
Pack for unpredictable weather: Ireland is known for its changeable weather, so be prepared for rain, wind, and occasional bursts of sunshine. Pack layers and waterproof clothing to ensure you stay comfortable throughout your visit.
Embrace the local culture: Wexford has a strong sense of community and a vibrant cultural scene. Take the time to listen to traditional Irish music in the pubs, and participate in local events and festivals to truly immerse yourself in the Wexford experience.
Plan your itinerary: With so much to see and do in Wexford, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance. Research the attractions you’re most interested in, check their opening hours, and allow enough time to explore each site at a leisurely pace.
Respect the environment: Wexford’s natural beauty is its greatest asset, so make sure to leave no trace when exploring the outdoors. Respect the environment, follow designated trails, and dispose of waste responsibly to help preserve the county’s stunning landscapes for future generations.