Wexford, Ireland

For this weeks city, I chose a personal one for me. I’m a quarter Irish (which isn’t a whole lot but it’s a lot more than most people these days) which has been a very important part of my life growing up. My great grandma (who was an Irish New Yorker through and through) instilled a love of the Irish culture in our family and this is my dream trip. I chose Wexford rather than your generic Irish cities like Dublin or Galway because I prefer historical and rural Ireland over the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas, and Wexford is where my family immigrated to New York from.

~History~

Wexford was initially inhabited by a German tribe in early centuries until it was taken over by Vikings. The Normans (Scandinavians) then took it over until the Celts showed up. The landscape and buildings of Wexford show the changes in control of power. There are many Norman style buildings, including a stone castle on Barrack Street.

~Top Places to Visit~

1. Hook Lighthouse

Hook Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world that is still being used, at over 800 years old. It has 115 steps that climb to a balcony. There’s a cafe, a visitors center, and a gift shop.

Guided tours are available at just under $7 for adults, under $5 for seniors and students, and free for children under 5 years old.

Site: http://hookheritage.ie/

2. Irish National Heritage Park

The Irish National Heritage Park is 35 acres of an outside museum that has to scale replicas of buildings and places within Irish history, including dolmens and Christian monasteries. There are activities available including gold panning and rock art.

The cost is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, $5 for children ages 5-12, just over $5 for youth ages 13-16 and free for children under 4.

Site: http://www.inhp.com/

3. Johnstown Castle and Gardens

This is the remains of the Norman stone castle mentioned in the history section of this post. There are many beautiful gardens and flowers throughout the park surrounding the castle.

Touring the castle costs $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, and $2 for children and students.

~Free Things to Do~

1. Kilmore Quay Harbor

This is a harbor in Wexford where the Irish Sea meets the Atlantic. There are cottages and fishing ports lining the harbor.

Site: http://kilmorequaymarina.com

2. Seal Rescue Ireland

Seal Rescue Ireland is a not for profit organization that rehabilitates 60-80 seals a year in Ireland. The facility is open for visitors to come see the seals and watch the rehabilitation work.

Site: http://www.sealrescueireland.org/visit

~Best Restaurants~

1. D’Lush Cafe

D’Lush Cafe serves daily specials using organic produce and serves coffee sources by ethical traders.

Site: http://www.dlushcafe.ie/phone/index.html

2. Kelly’s Cafe

Kelly’s Cafe serves breakfast and lunch using only Irish suppliers. They serve popular pizza and pies. They have been named one of the top casual restaurants in Ireland.

Site: https://www.kellys.ie/kelly-s-cafe-contact-us.html

3. Green Acres