Wexford

Planning Your Wexford Getaway

Essential Information

– Country: Ireland

– Timezone: GMT +0 (GMT +1 during Daylight Saving Time)

– Languages spoken: English, Irish (Gaelic)

– Currency: Euro (€)

Wexford Weather & Climate: A Month-by-Month Guide

• January-February: Coolest months, average temperatures 5-8°C (41-46°F). Expect rain and occasional frost.
• March-May: Temperatures gradually increase, averaging 8-15°C (46-59°F). More sunshine, but still a chance of showers.
• June-August: Warmest months, average temperatures 15-20°C (59-68°F). Long daylight hours and relatively less rain.
• September-October: Mild temperatures, averaging 12-17°C (54-63°F). Autumn colors emerge, and rainfall increases.
• November-December: Temperatures drop to 5-10°C (41-50°F). Increased rainfall and shorter daylight hours.

City Overview: A Taste of Wexford

Wexford, nestled in the southeast corner of Ireland, is a vibrant town steeped in history and brimming with culture. It’s a coastal gem with a rich maritime heritage, beautifully preserved medieval streets, and a welcoming atmosphere. The town’s story is etched into its ancient walls and historic sites, from the iconic West Gate Heritage Tower to the haunting remains of Selskar Abbey. Wexford is particularly known for its annual Opera Festival, a world-renowned event that draws music lovers from across the globe. Beyond its historical significance, Wexford offers stunning coastal scenery, picturesque beaches, and a thriving culinary scene featuring fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. The town is easily walkable, making it perfect for exploring its charming streets and soaking in the laid-back Irish ambiance. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply a relaxing escape, Wexford promises an unforgettable experience. Consider Wexford for your next Irish holiday!

When to Visit Wexford: Seasonal Pros & Cons

• Seasonal pros and cons:
• Summer (June-August): Pros: Warmest weather, long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. Cons: Higher prices, more crowded.
• Shoulder Season (April-May & September-October): Pros: Mild weather, fewer crowds, reasonable prices. Cons: Possibility of rain, some attractions may have limited hours.
• Winter (November-March): Pros: Lowest prices, fewer tourists. Cons: Coldest weather, shorter daylight hours, some attractions may be closed.

Getting to Wexford & Visa Information

• Flights: The closest major airport is Dublin Airport (DUB), approximately 2 hours north of Wexford by car or bus. Search for flights to Dublin to start your Wexford adventure.
• Trains: Irish Rail operates regular train services from Dublin to Wexford. Book your train tickets online for the best fares.
• Visa Details: Ireland is part of the Common Travel Area with the UK, so citizens of the UK do not require a passport. Citizens of many other countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and EU member states, do not require a visa for short tourist stays. Always check the latest visa requirements for your nationality before traveling. You can find the latest information on the Irish Immigration Service website.
• Airport Transfers: Bus Éireann and private taxi services offer airport transfers from Dublin Airport to Wexford. Consider pre-booking your transfer for a hassle-free journey.

Wexford: History, Culture & Fun Facts

A Glimpse into Wexford’s Past

Wexford played a pivotal role in the 1798 Rebellion, a significant uprising against British rule in Ireland. The town was captured by the rebels, who held it for several weeks. The rebellion ended in a bloody battle at Vinegar Hill, just outside Enniscorthy, resulting in a defeat for the rebels and a tragic loss of life. This pivotal moment in Irish history is remembered throughout Wexford.

Famous Faces of Wexford

• Eoin Colfer (Author of Artemis Fowl)

Top Wexford Attractions & Things to Do

Must-See Wexford Landmarks

• Irish National Heritage Park – Outdoor museum showcasing 9,000 years of Irish history.
  • Address: Ferrycarrig, Wexford, Y35 Y384
• Wexford Opera House – World-renowned opera house hosting the Wexford Festival Opera.
  • Address: High Street, Wexford, Y35 X673
• West Gate Heritage Tower – Restored medieval gate offering panoramic views of Wexford town.
  • Address: Westgate, Wexford, Y35 F284
• Selskar Abbey – Ruins of a 12th-century abbey with historical significance.
  • Address: Selskar Street, Wexford, Y35 C973
• Curracloe Beach – Stunning sandy beach featured in the movie “Saving Private Ryan”.
  • Address: Curracloe, Co. Wexford
• Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens – Beautiful castle estate with a museum, gardens, and lake.
  • Address: Johnstown, Co. Wexford
• Hook Lighthouse – One of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world.
  • Address: Hook Head, Fethard-on-Sea, Co. Wexford
• Tintern Abbey – Cistercian abbey founded in 1200
  • Address: Ballyhack, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Y34 KX23
• Wexford Wildfowl Reserve – Bird sanctuary and wetland area perfect for birdwatching.
  • Address: North Slob, Wexford, Co. Wexford, Y35 Y668
• Raven Point – Scenic nature reserve with walking trails and coastal views.
  • Address: Curracloe, Co. Wexford

Discover Wexford’s Hidden Gems

Off the Beaten Path in Wexford

• Tacumshane Windmill – Ireland’s only intact windmill with its original thatched roof.
  • Address: Tacumshane, Co. Wexford
• Forlorn Point – A secluded, windswept headland offering panoramic coastal views and a sense of solitude. It’s a great spot for a quiet walk and connecting with nature.
  • Address: Not easily accessible, requires local knowledge or detailed maps. Near Kilmore Quay
• Kilmore Quay – Picturesque fishing village with colorful houses, a charming harbor, and excellent seafood restaurants.
  • Address: Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford

Wexford Festivals & Events Calendar

Experience Wexford’s Vibrant Culture

• Wexford Festival Opera (October/November): International opera festival with unique and rarely performed operas.
• Wexford Maritime Festival (June): Celebration of Wexford’s maritime heritage with boat races, food stalls, and live music.
• Strawberry Fair (Late June/Early July): A family-friendly festival celebrating the strawberry harvest with stalls, events and food.

Day Trips from Wexford

Explore Beyond Wexford Town

• Kilkenny (1 hour 30 minutes): Medieval city with a magnificent castle and vibrant cultural scene.
• Waterford (1 hour): Ireland’s oldest city, known for its Viking history and crystal production.
• Enniscorthy (30 minutes): Historic town with Vinegar Hill and Enniscorthy Castle.

Wexford’s Best Photography Spots

Capture the Beauty of Wexford

• Curracloe Beach: Wide sandy beach, perfect for sunrise and sunset shots.
• Hook Lighthouse: Dramatic coastal scenery and the iconic lighthouse.
• Johnstown Castle Gardens: Picturesque gardens, lake, and castle backdrop.
• Wexford Quayfront: Colorful buildings reflected in the River Slaney.

Wexford Accommodation & Transportation

Plan Your Stay & Getting Around

Recommended Length of Stay

• 3-4 days

Top Places to Stay (Sorted by Budget)

• • Budget:
    • Wexford Townhouse:
      • Address: 10 Redmond Rd, Wexford, Y35 XR84
    • Whitford House Hotel (budget rooms available):
      • Address: New Line Rd, Whiterock, Wexford, Y35 Y611
  • Mid-Range:
    • Talbot Hotel Wexford:
      • Address: The Quay, Wexford, Y35 Y5X2
    • Clayton Whites Hotel:
      • Address: Abbey St, Wexford, Y35 Y443
    • Kellys Resort Hotel & Spa (Slightly pricier, but worth it):
      • Address: Rosslare, Co. Wexford, Y35 AE06
  • Luxury:
    • Monart Destination Spa:
      • Address: Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 YD77
    • Marlfield House Hotel:
      • Address: Marlfield House Hotel, Ballycanew, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Y25 YY24

Navigating Wexford: Getting Around

• • • Public Transport: Bus Éireann operates local bus services within Wexford town and county.
    • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Wexford town.
    • Bikes: Several bike rental shops offer bicycles for exploring the town and surrounding areas.
    • Walking: Wexford town is easily walkable, allowing you to explore its charming streets on foot.

Wexford Travel Tips & Essentials

Be Prepared for Your Wexford Adventure

What to Pack for Wexford

• • • Essentials based on weather and culture:
    • Layers of clothing (even in summer)
    • Waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes
    • Adapters for Irish plugs (Type G)
    • Sunscreen and sunglasses (especially in summer)
    • Respectful clothing for visiting religious sites

Useful Travel Apps for Wexford

• • • Navigation: Google Maps, Maps.me
    • Local Guides: Discover Ireland
    • Food: TripAdvisor, Yelp
    • Translation: Google Translate
    • Transport: Transport for Ireland (TFI) Journey Planner

Wexford Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

• • • Do’s & Don’ts:
    • Do be polite and friendly.
    • Do engage in conversation with locals.
    • Do try the local cuisine.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for directions.
    • Don’t litter or damage the environment.
    • Scams to Avoid: Be wary of unsolicited offers or overly friendly strangers. Use reputable taxi services.
    • Respectful Behavior: Respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas.

Wexford Food & Entertainment

A Taste of Wexford Life

Top Wexford Restaurants

• • • La Côte Seafood Restaurant: Upscale seafood dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
      • Address: Custom House Quay, Wexford, Y35 Y8N1
    • Aldridge Lodge: Award-winning restaurant serving contemporary Irish cuisine with stunning coastal views.
      • Address: Duncannon, Co. Wexford
    • Greenacres: Bistro and restaurant in a beautiful setting on Wexford’s quayside
      • Address: 22 North Main Street, Wexford

Must-Try Wexford Dishes

• • • Seafood Chowder: Creamy soup with a variety of locally sourced seafood.
    • Wexford Strawberries: Fresh, sweet strawberries, especially during the summer months.
    • Guinness Stew: Hearty stew made with beef, Guinness, and vegetables.

Wexford Nightlife & Entertainment

• • • The Sky & The Ground: Traditional Irish pub with live music sessions.
      • Address: 112 S Main St, Wexford, Y35 DK81
    • Crown Live: Live music venue hosting local and international bands.
      • Address: Monck Street, Wexford
    • The Centenary Stores: Bar with craft beer selection and comfortable vibe
      • Address: Charlotte Street, Wexford

Wexford Souvenirs & Local Markets

• • • Wexford Lavender Farm: Lavender-based products, including soaps, lotions, and essential oils.
      • Address: Ballyinaboola, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Y25 K280
    • Local Craft Shops: Handcrafted items, such as pottery, knitwear, and jewelry.
    • Wexford Farmers’ Market (Friday mornings): Fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.