Wexford Holiday Homes
Self-catering Holiday Accommodations for Rent in County Wexford at Ireland's South East Coast

Situated on a steep slope overlooking Waterford estuary, Ballyhack Castle, a large tower house, is thought to have been built in 1450 by the Knights Hospitallers of Saint John, one of the two great military orders founded at the beginning of the 12th century at the time of the crusades.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-389468

Family run, working farm that welcomes visitors during opening hours. The visitor farm, a member of Top Visitor Farms of Ireland, is approved and recognised by Bord Failte and Agri Aware Ireland. Wheelchair friendly visitor centre, restaurant, picnic area and farmyard. Witness the countryside through an hour long walk in the fields, woods and nature reserve on stone paths. Feed the deer herd and see the animals and crops in season, adventure trails and play area. Dureing opening times the restaurant serves light lunches and snacks and is an ideal coach stop off the N25 near New Ross. April: Sundays 12-00 to 18-00. May to September: daily 10-00 to 18-00. September onwards Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-00 to 18-00 (advisable to phone). December SANTA, presents and fun on selected weekends.
 
Email: ballylanefarm@tinet.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-425666 • Fax: +353-(0)51-422898

Family museum, picture gallery, farm display and 1798 exhibition with tearoom and walk about among heritage features. Gulbenkian and Heritage Council award winner. Open daily from Whit weekend to mid-September (except Mondays and Fridays). Open Saturdays by appointment.
 
Tel: +353-(0)54-83189

The Brú Ború Heritage Centre adjoins the famous Rock of Cashel where a host of traditional Irish artists perform during the summer season.
 
Web: http://www.comhaltas.com

The Lyons Family have lovingly restored this unique 17th century water mill to full working order. Enjoy a very personal guide by the proprietors, and savour their home-made produce in the Kiln Loft. Signposted on the main Rosslare-Dublin (N11) road at Camolin. Open: Easter to September, 11am-6pm. For opening hours during low season please contact the above.
 
Tel: +353-(0)55-28124/28392

Dunbrody Abbey is a 12th century Cistercian Monastery. On the site is a full size hedge maze, pitch and putt course, craft gallery and tearooms. Plants on sale throughout the summer. The Abbey Cookery School is also located on site. Open: May, June, Sept 10am-6pm; July & August 10am-7pm.
 
Tel: +353-(0)51-388603

The Dunbrody Ship, a full scale reproduction of a 19th century famine ship, is an authentic replica of the Three Masted Barque built in Quebec in 1845. Board the Dunbrody and walk in the footsteps of famine emigrants on their journey of hope across the Atlantic Ocean. A computer database of ships passengers lists, records over 2 million individual passengers. Audio visual and interactive displays trace the amazing success stories of The Kennedy's, Henry Ford and Commodore Barry among others. Open: Daily April to September 9am-6pm and October to March 10am-5pm.
 
Web: http://www.dunbrody.com • Email: jfktrust@iol.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-425239 • Fax: +353-(0)51-425240

Duncannon Military Fort is a star shaped fortress built on a strategically important promontory in Waterford Harbour. It was built in 1588 in expectation of an attack by the Spanish Armada. The Fort is noted for its dry moat and the legend of the Croppy Boy. Attractions on site include A Maritime Museum charting the history of one of the most dangerous coastlines in Ireland "The Wexford Coast" with panoramic views across Waterford Estuary to Woodstown and Passage East and down to Hook Head. Cockleshell Art Centre, Artists Studio,Cafe and Craft Shop. Open from April to October, guided tours rest of year by arrangement.
 
Web: http://www.thehook-wexford.com • Email: duncannonfort@ireland.com • Tel: +353-(0)51-389454 • Fax: +353-(0)51-389454

The Dunmore Cave consists of a series of chambers formed over millions of year.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie

Wexford boasts many excellent specimens of the work of the distinguished architect Augustus Welby Pugin. Famous for his work in the British Houses of Parliament, he designed St. Aidan's Cathedral in 1839, he also designed a smaller replica of the Cathedral in Edermine for the Power (Whiskey) family in Enniscorthy and St. MichaelÕs Church in Gorey. Guided tours available.

An interactive environmental exhibition centre. Admission free. The centre is open to the public Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm (except Bank Holidays).
 
Web: http://www.epa.ie • Email: g.ruane@epa.ie • Tel: +353-(0)53-60600 • Fax: +353-(0)53-60697

Constructed in the early 13th century, this Norman Castle was built as a strategic military point. Ferns itself, is steeped in history from the time of St. Aiden, to the Norman invasion and as an integral part of the 1798 rising. Dermot McMurrough, High King of Leinster is buried in Ferns. An interpretative centre is due to open in the area shortly.

One of six Episcopal Manors in the Diocese of Ferns. A fifteenth century castle built on the remains of a much earlier site. Following the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in Ireland in 1169, the district in which Fethard is situated was granted to a knight named Harvey de Montmorency. He, in turn, granted it to Christ Church, Canterbury, England. In 1200AD Canterbury ordered the construction of a castle at Fethard and a court to the north of the church.
 
Email: hookinfo@iol.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-397502

This is the latest attraction to county wexford, this leisure centre has 3 swimming pools, a 25m pool, kiddies pool, toddlers pool. It also boosts a 65m waterslide. The complex also has a Jacuzzi, gym, sauna, steam room and more to come as phase two will soon be under construction.
 
Web: http://www.northwexford.com/forestparkleisurecentre.htm • Email: AuraCourtown@eircom.net • Tel: +353-(0)55-24849 • Fax: +353-(0)55-24850

18th Century farmyard and thatched dwelling house restored to its original state complete with period furnishings. Exhibitions houses include; farm implements, stories and folklore and picture gallery. Mature gardens with scenic views. Picnic area and guided tours available. Craft and coffee shop on site. Open daily from April to October 10:00am-5:00pm and Sundays from 11:00am-5:00pm.
 
Tel: +353-(0)54-66898 • Fax: +353-(0)54-66898

The unique Galley Cruising Restaurants offer wonderful scenic trips along the Barrow, Nore and Suir (known as the three sisters rivers). Breathtaking scenery as you meander down the river path, observing the native flora and fauna of a busy river system as you go. Morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner cruises available - check departure times when booking.
 
Email: minihan@gofree.indigo.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-421723 • Fax: +353-(0)51-421950

This Maritime Museum is housed on board the lightship Guillemot. There are two museums in one, as the lightship is the last Irish Lights vessel, complete with all its cabins, original furniture and fittings. Below deck is an extensive collection of maritime pictures and nautical antiques.
 
Tel: +353-(0)51-561144

Visit one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world. Discover the wonders of the medieval tower of Hook; hear the legends of Dubhán, the 6th century Welsh monk who is reputed to have established the first light on Hook Head. Wild and elemental; tranquil and scenic, enjoy the facilities in the former keepers house, which includes a first class cafe and craft shop. Open daily: from March to October 9.30am-5.30pm. Last tour at 5pm. Contact the centre for low season times.
 
Web: http://www.thehook-wexford.com • Email: thehook@eircom.net • Tel: +353-(0)51-397055 • Fax: +353-(0)51-397056

Started in 1975 as a national museum of Irish agriculture and rural life. Open year-round and all indoors. Specialist areas include farm transport, sugar beet, rural crafts, the Great Famine 1845-47, country furniture, dairying, the Ferguson system and the Philip Pierce & Co. catalogue archive. Technical/historical information service available on fee-paying basis. Philip Pierce & CO catalogue archive. Open: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm and weekends (April-Oct.) 2pm-5pm.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.com • Tel: +353-(0)53-42888 • Fax: +353-(0)53-42213

One visit and 9000 years of Irish history told in a fascinating setting of woodland, riverbank, and native Irish dwellings. Discover how the Celtic, Norman and Viking settlers left their mark on the countryside. After this tour through time, enjoy the traditional home cooked food and Irish specialities of the Fulacht Fiadh restaurant. Open daily: March-Nov. 9.30am-6.30pm. Last admission 5pm. Audiovisual presentation and guided tours available.
 
Web: http://www.inhp.com • Email: info@inhp.com • Tel: +353-(0)53-20733 • Fax: +353-(0)53-20911

An outstanding Cistercian abbey founded in the latter half of the 12th century, with unique cloister carvings.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie

Located south of New Ross, off the R733, this visitor centre and arboretum is open all year round to the public. The arboretum was formally opened in 1968, and is dedicated to the memory of John. F. Kennedy (President of the United States 1961-1963). Kennedy has strong family ties in New Ross, visiting the area during the last days of his presidency in 1963. Play unit, picnic area, cafe and gift shop (seasonal), miniature railway (seasonal) and visitor centre available. Duch's Heritage Cards accepted and sold.
 
Email: jfkarboreteum@ealga.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-388171 • Fax: +353-(0)51-388172

Once owned by the Grogan family who were the biggest untitled landowners in Ireland. It was donated to the state after the death of the last resident Lady M. Fitzgerald in 1942 on condition that it be used for agricultural education and research. The castle itself, a gothic revival style mansion is not open to the public but the wonderful 50 acre gardens are. Also in the grounds is the Irish Agricultural Museum.

Ancestral Home of John F. Kennedy. The Kennedy Homestead celebrates the story of five generations of the Kennedy Family Dynasty. Birthplace of the late John F. Kennedy's great-grandfather. An audiovisual presentation and guided tour takes the visitor through the family history and historical setting of the Kennedy legacy. Gift shop in the centre. Open: June, July and August 10am-5.30pm; May & September 11.30am-4.30pm; and the rest of year by appointment. The Kennedy Homestead forms an integral part of the Kennedy Country tour including the Dunbrody Ship and the JFK Arboretum.
 
Web: http://www.kennedyhomestead.com • Email: info@kennedyhomestead.com • Tel: +353-(0)51-388264 • Fax: +353-(0)51-388761

A 12th century castle remodelled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands, which was the principal seat of the Butler Family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie

Build on seven acres Kilmokea is one of the great gardens of Ireland and has a craft shop with plants for sale. The garden is a delight to both the keen amateur and the more serious horticulturist. Contact: Emma & Mark Hewlett
 
Web: http://www.kilmokea.com • Email: kilmokea@indigo.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51 388109 • Fax: +353-(0)51 388776

An award winning centre, offering a fascinating insight into the birth of modern democracy in Ireland. The National 1798 Centre, Ireland's most modern visitor attraction, tells the story of the 1798 rebellion using the latest technology. Suitable for all the family. Excellent craft shop and cafe. Ample car and coach parking. Open Daily.
 
Web: http://www.1798centre.com • Email: 98com@iol.ie • Tel: +353-(0)54-37596 • Fax: +353-(0)54-37198

Famous location for pilgrimage and adoration. Located in South Wexford, between Rosslare and Kilmore Quay. Designated area of international importance for its wild life. Tacumshane Lake and Tacumshane Windmill also worth a visit.

Action packed tour of thrills and excitement on all terrain vehicles!
 
Tel: +353-(0)54-44660

St. Mary's Church, Gowran.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie

A delightful "cottage orne" built by the 1st Earl of Glengall in the early 1800s.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie

Named after Tintern in Wales, this is a Cistercian Abbey founded by William the Earl of Marshall. It dates back to about 1200 and visitors can see the remains of the nave, chancel, tower, chapel and cloister. Many beautiful walkways and paths surround the abbey. Guided tours are available. Open June-Sept., 9.30am-6pm.
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-562650

The magic of rails golden age has been brought to life at Kilmeadan, Co Waterford. Experience the beauty of the Suir Valley from the Waterford & Suir Valley Heritage Railway. A heritage narrow gauge railway follows over 6km of the route of the abandoned Waterford -Dungarvan line. The track runs mostly along the picturesque banks of the River Suir between Kilmeaden and Waterford offering panoramic views of the River Suir, rolling farmland and mountains. The rolling stock includes a restored Simplex 60sp locomotive with a Perkins diesel engine and two Edwardian style carriages.
 
Web: http://www.wsvrailway.ie

Waterford Treasures
 
Web: http://www.waterfordtreasures.com

13th century Norman castle, built by the Prendergast family, and opened to the public in 1962. The museum houses artefacts from all walks of early Wexford and Irish community life; military, maritime, agricultural and ecclesiastical. Open daily, Mar to Sep. 10:00am-6:00pm, Check with museum for low season schedule.

Wexford is widely known as the best county in Ireland for bird watching. This is a well-equipped visitor centre and has many exhibitions and an informative audio visual show. The park is sign posted just outside Wexford town on the R741 between Ferrybank and Castlebridge.

This 18th century themed farmstead is located between Wexford town and Rosslare Europort. Featuring a restored farm house, forge, school house, working mill, thatched cottage, mini-farm, play area, aviary, craft shop and granny's kitchen for some wholesome food. Yola is a state appointed Heritage & Genealogy Centre. Open: daily, May-October, 9.30am-5pm; During March, April and November, Monday-Friday 9.30am-4.30pm.
 
Email: yolafst@iol.ie • Tel: +353-(0)53-32610 • Fax: +353-(0)53-32612

Family run, working farm that welcomes visitors during opening hours. The visitor farm, a member of Top Visitor Farms of Ireland, is approved and recognised by Bord Failte and Agri Aware Ireland. Wheelchair friendly visitor centre, restaurant, picnic area and farmyard. Witness the countryside through an hour long walk in the fields, woods and nature reserve on stone paths. Feed the deer herd and see the animals and crops in season, adventure trails and play area. Dureing opening times the restaurant serves light lunches and snacks and is an ideal coach stop off the N25 near New Ross. 2002 opening times: Easter Sat. Sun. Mon. EGGSRTAVEGGANZA Hunt for 1000's of Cadbury Easter Eggs. Meet the EASTER BUNNY. April: Sundays 12-00 to 18-00; May to September daily 10-00 to 18-00; September onwards Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-00 to 18-00 (advisable to phone). December SANTA, presents and fun on selected weekends.
 
Email: ballylanefarm@tinet.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-425666 • Fax: +353-(0)51-422898

A popular destination for all gardening enthusiasts. Stocking furniture and accessories, garden ornaments, paving, sheds and fencing, water features as well as the widest range of plants available in Wexford. Open 7 days, contact above for exact details.
 
Email: beechdale@eircom.net • Tel: +353-(0)54-44271 • Fax: +353-(0)54-44481

Located 12km south of New Ross, off the R733, this 252 ha arboretum and visitor centre is open year round (except Good Friday and Christmas day). Enjoy self-guided trails, 4,500 species of trees and exotic shrubs from 5 continents, laid out in botanical order. Open : May-August 10am-8pm; April & September 10am-6.30pm and October-March 10am-5pm.
 
Tel: +353-(0)51-388171 • Fax: +353-(0)51-388172

Set against a fairy tale 19th century turreted castle, the gardens of Johnstown Castle contain a wide range of trees and shrubs. A delightful manmade lake with its own particular flora and fauna adds to the appeal of this wonderful specimen of Wexford garden. Open Daily: 9.30am-5.30pm.
 
Tel: +353-(0)53-42888 • Fax: +353-(0)53-42213

In a mild frost-free climate, this garden is beautifully laid out around a Georgian manor. Topiary, lawns, herbaceous and mixed plantings combine with architectural features and ornaments to provide an enchanting series of enclosures. A large water garden extends into woodland planted with rare and tender trees and shrubs. Open: 17th of March to 5th of November, 10am-6pm. Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays. Tearoom open: 10am-5pm.
 
Web: http://www.kilmokea.com • Email: kilmokea@indigo.ie • Tel: +353-(0)51-388109 • Fax: +353-(0)51-388776

Situated just off the main road between Gorey and Courtown.
 
Tel: +353-(0)55-21166

Tel: +353-(0)55-27277

Show Grounds just up from the Enniscorthy Cathedral. Capture the action - go greyhound racing! Race meets twice weekly, every Monday and Thursday. First race 8pm.
 
Tel: +353-(0)54-33172 • Fax: 054-34941

Wexford Racecourse is the South East's leading race course. When you come to Wexford you are guaranteed a great day's racing served up in a thrilling atmosphere, you also get to visit one of the most charming towns in Ireland with its narrow medieval streets, famous restaurants and pubs to cater for all tastes. All in all, Wexford assures you of a brilliant day out for all the family. The Flat Season runs from mid-March to early November each year. National Hunt races are run throughout the year. All Festival Meetings and most weekday meetings during the Flat Season feature Mixed Cards - i.e. both Flat and National Hunt races. Wexford is an undulating, right handed course of one mile, 2 furlongs for chases, hurdles and flat races. On an elevated location just outside Wexford town, the Wexford racecourse provides 8 days of glorious racing annually. Facilities and arrangements of the highest order each play their part in making Wexford a racegoer's favourite.
 
Web: http://www.wexfordraces.ie • Tel: +353-(0)53-42307

This area is a favourite with families - lots of sandy beaches, including the blue flag beach at Courtown.

Departing from Wexford town, taking the R742, this route will lead you along Wexford's scenic eastern coastline. Castlebridge village with its water mill is the first village on your left you will also pass close to Curracloe Beach and Ballinskar where Spielberg's 'Saving Private Ryan' battle scenes were shot - well worth a detour!

Also along this route you will find Kilmuckridge. This old style village boasts many historical buildings, a golf course, excellent fishing facilities and a host of award winning restaurants and pubs.

Further along this coastal drive, you will see Oulart Hill to your right, scene of one of the infamous 1798 battlefields, Boolavogue Village and The Father Murphy Visitor Centre. Shrule Deer Farm, in Ballygarret, is also open to the public at this time and is well worth a stop during your tour.

Why not take some time to explore Courtown Harbour, Courtown Wood and Tara Hill, where you will find breathtaking views of miles and miles of coastline. Courtown Harbour has many fine hotels, restaurants and cafes to enjoy within a panoramic view of the ocean. There are also golfing, angling and water sports for all the family to enjoy. Pirates Cove and Forest Park Leisure Centre will provide amusement, fun and games for the adventure seekers!

Alternative routes to North Wexford will take you along the N11 from Wexford through Oylegate and Enniscorthy Town. This scenic Slaney Valley Drive follows the journey of the river as it passes through the landscape leaving a lush and green pastures for all to enjoy. Famous for its river angling, and Strawberry Fair, Enniscorthy is a great base to explore North Wexford. The town has many craft and pottery studios, challenging golfing, and excellent lunch and dinner stops. The County Museum is open all year round, and all this in the magnificent backdrop of Vinegar Hill. The 1798 Visitor Centre charts the course of Irish Independence during the turbulent rebellion years, with an excellent audio-visual, gift shop and café included.

Continuing your journey along the N11, you will enter into Ferns, the traditional seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Explore the Castle, Abbey, and Cathedral. (Walking Tours of the area are available on request). The Courtyard , in the village centre, is an ideal lunch or coffee stop. However for a real experience of rural Wexford life during the past two centuries, a visit to Ballymore Historic Features is a must. This centre run by the O'Donovan family is a unique offering of old and new told by the family who have worked, lived and loved this land for the past two hundred years.

Take a left at Camolin Village and follow the signs to Cranaford if you would like to see a working Water Mill in action. Continuing along the N11 will lead you straight into the bustling town of Gorey, traditionally famous for its markets, it continues to be a good treasure throve of small shops, boutiques, pubs, restaurants and cafes.
 
Web: http://www.NorthWexford.com • Email: info@northwexford.com

Taking the N 25 from Wexford Town to Rosslare Harbour. On route take in the beautiful coastal resort of Rosslare Strand, it blue flag beach, Water sport's centre and, golf courses and driving ranges and shops. Rosslare is world renowned for the standard of its accommodation from Kelly's Resort Hotel to the numerous four star self catering accommodation on offer.

Continuing along to Rosslare Harbour, take time out to visit Yola Farmstead Folk Park. The park includes thatched cottages, a forge, schoolhouse, church, rare breeds of poultry and common farm animals, with a supervised play area for children and a coffee shop and craft shop on site.

Rosslare Harbour itself is a lovely visit, watching the ferries in transit and fishing boats at their daily tasks. The Harbour boasts a string of excellent hotels, pubs and restaurants all within striking distance, and with amazing views of the ocean. This part of Wexford's coastline is infamous for the purity of its waters, its undiscovered nature is a treasure for those who delight in the thrill of the unknown, following windy roads and boreens in search of a hidden beach or cove. This is truly the 'hidden Ireland'.

Returning from the harbour and taking a left onto the R 736 at Tagoat, is a beautiful scenic journey following the coastline from Rosslare , passing close to Carnesore Point, Our Lady's Island and Tacumshane Lake into Kilmore Quay.

Kilmore Quay is a beautiful, quaint working fishing village. You will be instantly struck by a blaze of yellow thatch and white wash upon entering the village. The ocean breeze is refreshing as you stroll along the new Blue flag Marina, where lobster pots and shark fishing implements mingle side by side. A gastronomic delight, you wont go hungry nor thirsty in this area. The Silver Fox restaurant boasts the best sea food for miles and Kehoes Pub and Parlour is a veritable open museum of maritime history. But for a real museum visit, the Guillemot Maritime Museum is a converted lightship open to the public.

Boat trips and charters are available from the pier, ideal for angling, diving or sight seeing. Local knowledge is freely shared with tips for best fishing and diving locations. A trip around the Saltee Islands is well worth time. This Island is home to rare breeds of migrating birds and is a nature lovers paradise.

With the Saltee Islands to your left following the coastline will bring you through to the famous Hook Peninsula. Alternatively leaving Wexford Town take the R 733 through Wellington Bridge. This area is a heritage treasure. Castles dot the landscape besides the miles of coastline and inlets.

The Seven Castles of Clonmines (privately owned), Tintern Abbey and forest walks (open daily to the public), Dunbrody Abbey and Visitor Centre, and Duncannon Fort are but a few of the historical sites in this area.

The Bannow drive is well signed, covering a wide diversity of attractions including coastal walks, bird watching on Cockle Strand, The Island of Bannow (first landing site of the Normans in 1169), the Buried city of Bannow and Bannow Church. You can also take in Saltmills Village, Kelly Kraft and a stop in the Vine Cottage, Saltmills for some traditional Irish music sessions.

Fethard-on-Sea village is a popular tourist stop and the Hotel Naomh Seosamh will cater for all your dining needs. Outside the village on the road to the Hook peninsula, is Hookless Village, with self catering accommodation, swimming pool and leisure centre, children's play area, pub and restaurant. This self contained development is ideal for all ages and tastes.

Hook Lighthouse is now open to the public. In a magnificent setting of roaring surf, you can enjoy a guided tour, audio-visual presentation and excellent restaurant and craft facilities in this centre. Relive the legend of the peninsula, where the famous 'by Hook or by Crook' phrase was associated.

Duncannon Village and Blue flag beach, is a delight. Also Arthurstown and Ballyhack village are breathtaking. Both boast excellent cuisine experiences, Dunbrody House and the Neptune Cookery School located in Dunbrody Abbey run world famous cookery demonstrations, and a visit to these establishments for lunch, dinner, or gastronomic advice will be an unforgettable experience. The Passage East Car Ferry is a nice 30-minute return journey linking Wexford and Waterford.

New Ross golf club, situated just 2km from the town of New Ross itself is a fine 18 hole parkland course and well worth a few hours play. The Dunbrody Famine Ship is an important replica of the famine ship, which carried many thousand Irish to far off shores during that period. Guided tours, audio-visual presentation and café are available. Ballylane Farm, off N25 3kms from New Ross, offers self guided country walks seeing woods ,crops, farm animals and deer. Restaurant and picnic areas. JF Kennedy Park and Arboretum and the Kennedy Homestead are also very worthwhile visitor centres in the New Ross Area. Turn left on leaving the park and follow the Hook Head sign, and you will come across signs for Kilmokea Gardens, open all year by appointment, these gardens have many features of horticultural interest.

The river Slaney runs through the heart of Wexford. Meandering through lush green agricultural lands, it services two towns, Enniscorthy and Bunclody before reaching the sea at Wexford harbour. The Slaney is very popular with anglers and bird watchers.

The road from Bunclody to Enniscorthy runs on the floor of the valley. A Prominent hill with a ruin of a windmill is Vinegar Hill, one of the strategic locations held and fought for by the rebels during the 1798 battles. The Island Hunt is also based in Bunclody, and visitors are welcome by arrangement.

Take the Kiltealy road from Bunclody and enjoy magnificent views, right, of Black Rock Mountain, Mount Leinster and other peaks in the Blackstairs. This is known as the Mount Leinster Drive and large expanses of Wexford, Carlow, Kilkenny and Wicklow can be seen at one time or another on this most scenic and spectacular marked way.

The County Museum at Enniscorthy, housed in a castle, is a fascinating exhibition of agricultural, military and domestic memorabilia. St Aidans Roman Catholic Church also in Enniscorthy Town is a fine example of Pugin architecture. The 1798 Centre explores the historical richness of the area during those infamous battles and also provides a insight into the political and social issues governing Irelands history at that time. Golfers have good reason to linger this area, just off the main Enniscorthy - New Ross route is the Enniscorthy Golf Club a par 70 designed to utilise most clubs in your bag!

Grey hound racing is another popular sport, with race meets twice weekly.

The craft of pottery has become synonymous with Enniscorthy, with one of Irelands oldest potteries established in the region over 300 years. Carleys Bridge Pottery specialises in hand thrown terracotta pots for the home and garden. Badger Hill and Kiltrea Pottery are also open to visitors forming a lovely pottery trail in the area.

Leaving Enniscorthy in the direction of Wexford Town, the Slaney will remain beside you for a good part of your journey, on a good day you will witness the reflection of the lush grassland surrounding the river as the anglers cast their line in hope of a record catch that day. The route passes through the village of Oilgate, across the Ferrycarrig Bridge with its castle and picnic stop and just 3KM outside the town of Wexford is located the premier visitor Attraction of the county. The Irish National Heritage Park records 9000 years of history in one wonderful site. Stone Age, Bronze Age, Celtic and early Christian, up to the early Norman Period are all wonderfully illustrated through audio-visual, guided or self guided walks. To top off the visit, the Fulacht Fiadh Restaurant is themed on archaeological exhibits within the park, where you dine in unique surroundings overlooking the Crannog (early house on lake).

Johnstown Castle, Gardens and Agricultural Museum has long attracted interest worldwide. Located a few kilometres from the town of Wexford, the gardens are wonderfully maintained, with wooded and lakeshore walks, where thousands of plant life species are nurtured and protected. The agricultural museum houses one of the finest collections of rural and agricultural life in Ireland, with early farm furniture, machinery and implements on display.

Wexford Town itself is a vibrant and exciting town to visit. Founded by the Vikings in the 9th century, it's winding streets, intact Norman walls, period buildings and colourful seafront provide a visitor with a 1000 year stroll through time.

The town boasts wonderful jewellers, crafts shops, boutiques and coffee houses. Most pubs offer excellent pub lunches and many will have nightly entertainment and traditional Irish sessions. Culturally Wexford is world renowned for its annual Opera Festival which takes place during late October and early November, but the town is also involved with year round festivals of music, light opera and art exhibitions. More information is available from the Art Centre in Cornmarket Street. The centre is always worth a visit with ongoing exhibitions and a good coffee shop attached.

Other areas worth visiting are Selskar Abbey, built circa 1190 and the Westgate, one of five medieval entrances to the town, where an audiovisual presentation of the towns history is shown on the hour between 10am and 4 pm. The Cornmarket, Bullring and Main Street are also worth spending time, for exact details of buildings to watch out for contact the Tourist Information Office on the Quay Front.

Coach Hire for Executive Travel - Scheduled Services - Novelty and Special Occasions.
 
Web: http://www.dualwaycoaches.com

Personalised itineraries and dedicated guides. Small Escorted Tours of Ireland are experienced in creating custom tours of Ireland for discerning visitors. On a private escorted tour of Ireland the itinerary and choice of accommodation are tailored precisely to the requirements of your group and you have the services of an experienced driver/escort throughout. Groups of 2 or larger accommodated on a private tour
 
Web: http://www.irelandescorted.com • Email: info@irelandescorted.com • Tel: +353-(0)56-7727322 • Fax: +353-(0)56-7727844

Official tour guides of Medieval Kilkenny.
 
Web: http://www.tynantours.com • Email: info@tynantours.com • Tel: +353-(0)56-65929 • Fax: +353-(0)56-65929

floral pride
 
Web: http://www.carlowfloralpride.com

Unique comedy festival
 
Web: http://www.thecatlaughs.com

Major musical and Arts Festival
 
Web: http://www.carlowartsfestival.ie

Traditional Music Weekend
 
Web: http://www.feilenandeise.com

Welcome to the festival and enjoy!
 
Web: http://www.artists-in-glass.com

Dates: 7th, 8th and 9th February. Non Stop Jazz all weekend. Artists to include: Joe Mac, The Gunness Jazz Band, Cluskey Hopkins, Some Like It Hot, The Ulster Jazz Band and many more.
 
Web: http://www.lawlors-hotel.ie

Web: http://www.jfkdunbrodyfestival.com

Classical music in elegant surroundings
 
Web: http://www.kilkennyarts.ie

Heritage Ireland
 
Web: http://www.heritageireland.ie

Feile Pan Cheilteach
 
Web: http://www.panceltic.com

Four day Racing Festival in Tramore, Co Waterford
 
Web: http://www.tramore-racecourse.com

Powerboat Grand Prix
 
Web: http://www.powerboatracingireland.com

Waterford Light Opera - a classic among events
 
Web: http://www.waterfordfestival.com

Web: http://www.waterfordmaritimefestival.com

Electric atmosphere during Spraoi Festival
 
Web: http://www.spraoi.com

There is a magic during this Opera Festival
 
Web: http://www.wexfordopera.com