Things to do in Waterford

Donna

From Donna's guidebook

Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week from 9am - 6pm. Last tour at 4pm. New Ross, County Wexford, Y34 A786, Ireland Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience & Restaurant New Ross, Co. Wexford *Tours will resume Mid June*   The Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience is a spectacular feature of the New Ross quayside. There are some tourist attractions that cant be missed and The Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience In New Ross, Co. Wexford is one of them. The Dunbrody Famine Ship & Irish Emigrant Experience visitor centre is the perfect stop on any tour of the south-east of Ireland. This ship is an authentic reproduction of an 1840’s emigrant vessel, it provides a world class interpretation of the famine emigrant experience.   Moored on the bank of the River Barrow this award winning and world unique tourist attraction allows visitors to take a trip with a difference by travelling in time. From the moment of departing on a tour, the visitor is transported back to the 1840s and given a personal sense of the sadness and excitement felt by the famine emigrants setting sail for a new life and leaving behind poverty and despair.   Explore the spectacular Dunbrody Famine Ship above and below deck, step back in time as costumed performers set the scene for a journey that transformed the lives of thousands and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a real life famine ship.   As well as the ship’s tour, the Dunbrody Visitor Centre houses a charming river-view restaurant and the Irish America Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame commemorates the critical contribution made by Irish men and women to U.S history, as well as acknowledging the continuing contribution of contemporary Irish Americans.   The guided tour of the ship features costumed performers and themed exhibitions of the highest quality and provides a unique insight into the bravery and fortitude with which Irish people faced up to a desperate situation.   Stroll along the newly developed quayside featuring public art and sculptures, incorporating The John F. Kennedy memorial wall and statue and the spectacular Emigrant Flame, which was lit from JFK’S grave at Arlington National Cemetary.

Laura

From Laura's guidebook

Experiencing The Dunbrody Famine Ship As you arrive into the exhibition, we establish an illusion that you are an emigrant passenger by creating a theatre set with audio of voices from the past and a seamless interaction with live interpreters. Our exhibition is divided into three parts: Departure, Voyage and New World. Looking up at the tall masts of the Dunbrody Famine Ship As you enter the exhibition, you arrive on the dock at New Ross Quay. The scene in front of you is William Graves’ ticket office and you overhear Ann Morrissey, a 25-year-old housekeeper from Glenmore, paying the balance of her fares. Departure Hall With Boarding Pass in hand, you join the throngs of emigrants gathering in the Embarkation area. Here you get a vision of what impoverished refugees, who risked everything they had, including their lives, might have felt as they stepped on board a ship setting sail for a dangerous journey to an American life. Guides in Period Costumes The next section of the exhibition, Voyage, takes place entirely on board the ship. Here, in the steerage accommodation, you meet fellow “passengers”, Mrs Anne White and Mrs Mary O’Brien, who engage you in conversation, freely sharing their opinions and experiences of the journey. Aboard the Dunbrody Close by is the crew’s quarters, the captain’s cabin and the much plusher accommodation for the “cabin” passengers. One area is given over to a selection of the cargo which the Dunbrody carried on her return journeys from America, the other half of the ship’s story. In the New World Eventually arriving in the New World of Savannah Georgia, you will hear heartrending tales of the tragedy at the quarantine station of Grosse Ile, and see how fellow emigrants adjust to their new environment. With a million and a half people migrating during the Great Hunger, it would take generations and much hard work for the Irish to define themselves with respect and dignity in North American culture. American Hall of Fame The American Hall of Fame at the end of our tour reflects the realised dreams of impoverished emigrants—the large numbers of Irish Americans who have made significant contributions to our world—the Kennedy dynasty, Henry Ford, Georgia O’Keeffe, Eugene O’Neill, James Watson, Grace Kelly… The Dunbrody Souvenir Shop After a memorable metaphorical pilgrimage on the Dunbrody, our museum shop has a large selection of Irish heritage books, prints, crystal, jewellery and other memorabilia. The Captain’s Table Restaurant The Captain’s Table Restaurant, overlooking vibrant New Ross Quays, is the perfect place to relax and absorb the experience of the ship. Our menu offers everything from Breakfast to Main Meals and Light Bites to Sweet Treats—all to be enjoyed in this wonderful river view setting.

Dolores

From Dolores's guidebook

About Dunbrody Dunbrody Famine Ship is one of the premier tourist attractions in the South East of Ireland. Centred on an authentic reproduction of an 1840’s emigrant vessel, it provides a world-class interpretation of the famine emigrant experience. Incorporating guided tour, costumed performers and themed exhibitions of the highest quality, ‘The Dunbrody’ provides a unique insight into the bravery and fortitude with which Irish people faced up to a desperate situation.

Terrie

From Terrie's guidebook

The Comeragh Mountains in Waterford provide the perfect backdrop for adventure. Whether you want something quick and easy or would like to spend the day exploring, there is something to suit everyone in this magnificent glaciated mountain range. If you don’t know where to start, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Mahon Falls. Mahon Falls is an 80 metre waterfall, formed by the River Mahon as it cascades from the Comeragh Plateau over the sandstone cliffs and rocks below. The scenery approaching Mahon Falls is spectacular and is similar to the rugged and wild landscape of Connemara. It’s pretty breathtaking. Easy, Family Friendly Trail I was aware that it wasn’t a very long trail into the falls but it was even more straightforward than I expected. The falls are clearly visible from the parking area and a gravel path leads you all the way to them. The walk isn’t very strenuous. It’s more a gently undulating trail and is well maintained, making it very family friendly

Aisling

From Aisling's guidebook

Less than an hour from the cottage, The Mahon Falls Walk is a 4km looped trail that features a magnificent waterfall. The difficulty of the walk is moderate and there’s plenty of parking nearby. Rising up to 80 metres and offering striking views across the county and beyond, Mahon Falls is part of the gorgeous Comeragh Mountains range. There is also the Magic Road, on the road leading up to the Mahon Falls Car Park. You will cross a cattle grid and shortly after that you will have to keep your eyes peeled for two stones with the inscription “Magic Road”.  You will also see a “Fairy Tree” covered in rags and other paraphernalia.  This is where you can stop your car and put it in neutral and wait for it, you will begin to roll backwards up the hill!! You will have to see it to believe it!

Nicola

From Nicola's guidebook

A walk up to the Mahon Falls in the Comeragh Mountains is a must-do if you have the time. This a 2km path walk from the car-parking area to the base of the Mahon Falls. If you're an experienced hiker and feeling a little more adventurous, you can hike up the side of the Waterfall for a majestic view of the Comeraghs. Wear warm clothing as it can be quite cool and breezy at the top of the mountain. If you like seeing sheep roam free, this is the ideal trail for you.

Louise

From Louise's guidebook

Located on The Mall in the heart of the Viking Triangle in Waterford City centre, the House of Waterford Crystal offers you a journey through more than 200 years of history. Enjoy a fully guided tour that lasts approximately 50 minutes. You can also visit their large gift shop selling all their products and cafe serving food, homemade sweet treats and fresh coffee. (24 minutes by car)

Mount Congreve Estate

From Mount Congreve Estate's guidebook

Feel the heat of the furnace... The House of Waterford is located in the Viking Triangle in the heart of Waterford City. A unique highlight of a visit is the factory tour which gives an up-close insight into the centuries old tradition of crystal making. Feel the heat of the furnace and marvel at the skills of the master craftsmen. The factory tour includes the following traditional production areas; wooden mould making, crystal blowing and furnace, crystal cutting and quality inspection and finishing. Yet more stages to creating this beautiful product include crystal sculpting, engraving and design inspiration. After the tour indulge your passion for the world’s most famous crystal in a lavish retail store, which houses the largest collection of Waterford found anywhere in the world. An exhibition of sporting trophies and statement pieces is an absolute must-see attraction. During your visit to the House of Waterford why not treat yourself to an Afternoon Tea Experience? Take the time to relax and indulge with luxurious treats and specialty teas or coffee, served in a beautiful ‘Butterfly Bloom’ tea set. The complimentary visitor retail experience includes the largest display of Waterford Crystal in the world, a retail store, exhibition, and crystal installation areas, a coffee shop and a worldwide shipping facility. Adjacent car parking is also available. The House of Waterford is a key attraction in Ireland’s Ancient East.

Justine

From Justine's guidebook

20 mins drive to Waterford city from Dunmore east , why not visit the beautiful Waterford crystal showrooms and fabulous cafe, or take a tour .

D

From D's guidebook

The Waterford-Kilmacthomas-Dungarvan Greenway is one that you can dip into and enjoy parts of rent a bike and ride it all. Highlights include an exhilarating cycle over a towering viaducts in Kilmacthomas with the Commeragh mountains as your backdrop, Durrow bridge which is sure to take your breath away rain or shine and also the postcard views of the beautiful Clonea beach from the Greenway.

Mount Congreve Estate

From Mount Congreve Estate's guidebook

The old railway line from Waterford City to Dungarvan is a spectacular 46km off-road cycling and walking trail which travels through time and nature across eleven bridges, three impressive viaducts and a long atmospheric tunnel all the way from the River Suir to Dungarvan Bay. Along this route in Ireland’s Ancient East is the site of a 9th century Viking settlement; the world renowned ornamental gardens at Mount Congreve; Waterford & Suir Valley narrow gauge heritage railway; former woollen mills and railway stations; and beautiful landscapes along the River Suir, Comeragh Mountains, The Copper Coast and Dungarvan Bay. Enjoy the beautiful journey.

Maggie

From Maggie's guidebook

The Greenway is a long stretch of old unused railway lines which have been turned into a cycle path. If you feel like a day out cycling this is the perfect place. As you cycle along you get stunning sea views and views of the beautiful Comeragh Mountains. I painted this view of the Comeragh Mountains. I took this photograph while cycling on the Greenway and wanted to capture it in oils on my return to London.

Maggie

From Maggie's guidebook

The Copper Coast Geopark is in Co Waterford and is an outdoor museum of geoglogical records. It stretches along the coast from Kilfarassy Beach, near Fenor in the east to Ballyvoile Beach near Stradbally to the West. Volancos, oceans, deserts and ice sheets all combined to create the rocks which provide the physical foundation of the natural and cultural landscapes of the area. Follow the self-guided "Copper Coast" trail and walking cards available from The Copper Coast Geopark Centre in Bunmahon.

Mount Congreve Estate

From Mount Congreve Estate's guidebook

The stretch of coast between Tramore and Dungarvan is known as the Copper Coast and it’s one of the most beautiful, unspoilt scenic drives in Ireland. It’s a scenic drive with stunning coastal landscape that would rival the Wild Atlantic Way. The Copper Coast Scenic Drive goes through six villages and winds its way along the coast, revealing secret beaches and hidden coves, so pack a picnic and bring your swimming togs and set off to explore on of Ireland’s hidden secrets. The Copper Coast Scenic drive also takes in explores Waterford’s coastal UNESCO Global Geopark. The villages on the Copper Coast Scenic Drive include Annestown, a picturesque tiny village on the slope of a hill. It overlooks the rugged Atlantic Bay and the Anne Valley and Bunmahon, a small village at the mouth of the River Mahon. Copper was mined here in the 19th Century and there is a mining museum still on the site. Stradbally is an award-winning village with stunning scenery being sheltered between the Comeragh Mountains and the Atlantic ocean. Departing Waterford, the R675 brings you to Tramore, Ireland’s premier seaside resort. Driving towards Newtown Head, look for the Metal Man perched on one of three pillars on the headland. From here, continue west (via R675) along the Copper Coast. You will arrive in Dungarvan.

Jackie

From Jackie's guidebook

Unrivalled views of the Irish coast with lots of small beaches.

Mairead

From Mairead's guidebook

Hook lighthouse is about 50mins drive but it is worth the time to see the beautiful views. You can take a tour of the lighthouse, walk the cliff to Slade village or just visit the coffee shop and enjoy the great food and service.

Kathleen

From Kathleen's guidebook

The oldest working twinkly in the world , complete with whale watching platform , coffee shop , craft shop . Take the guided tour and climb to the top where you can see the route by which Cromwell vowed to conquer Ireland " By Hook or By Crook " naming the 2 headlands on either side of Waterford Harbour

Leeanne

From Leeanne's guidebook

Wexford's most popular tourist attraction and the oldest lighthouse in Europe. Stunning views and for the fortunate few , Whales and dolphins have been spotted there. The lighthouse runs hourly tours, arts and crafts programme and a wooden pirate ship for children and other special events (check out their insta page). Fresh cooked food served from 10am daily. Would recommend the seafood chowder and Irish soda bread.

Mairead

From Mairead's guidebook

The Abby is 31 Km from Wexford Town and located on the Hook Peninsula. The abbey itself presents lots of striking original features. The decorated corbel tables located high up around the outside walls of the chancel are a prime example. Among them are 22 carved heads, in the form of humans monsters and fantastical hybrids. On the east side of the building, small carved ecclesiastical figures can be seen. The north wall of the chancel contains three low arches, possibly intended to be burial places for abbots or other important people. The cloister was used for spiritual readings and meditation. Each evening the monks and abbot assembled there to read sacred readings and then eat a small collation together. At the north side of the cloister we find the remains of the abbot’s seat and the collation bench. The arched gateway on the west range is the only surviving trace of the medieval domestic buildings. Dating from the thirteenth century, it was the main entrance to the cloister and led into the chambers to the south.

Christiane

From Christiane's guidebook

Tintern Abbey, nestled in the scenic Hook Peninsula, is a captivating example of Cistercian architecture. The abbey's stone ruins are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through the abbey's cloisters and admire the intricate Gothic windows. The nearby Tintern Woods offer enchanting walking trails that lead you to the banks of the Tintern River.

Matthew

From Matthew's guidebook

A Cistercian Abbey which has been partially restored. Visitors can participate in 45-minute guided tours of the property to view the remains of the nave, chancel, tower, chapel and cloister. There are lovely walking paths all around the grounds and the "Tintern Tea Rooms" cafe/restaurant serves lunch and pastries also.

Louise

From Louise's guidebook

Experience the beauty of the Suir Valley from a period carriage and take in the wonderful panoramic views of the River Suir. This family friendly railway runs mostly along the picturesque banks of the River Suir offering views of the world famous Mount Congreve Gardens. This is an area rich in history and is only accessible by train.

Mount Congreve Estate

From Mount Congreve Estate's guidebook

Discover the story of rail at Waterford Suir Valley Railway, Ireland’s longest narrow-gauge railway! Start your journey at Kilmeadan Station in 1878, the year this railway line opened, check-in at the ticket office, a converted Mark 11 railway carriage and meet the volunteer train drivers as you approach the platform. They will escort you to your private compartment on the train. Enjoy the panoramic views of the River Suir, watch out for the Cormorants as they fish in the river, get a glimpse into Mount Congreve Gardens, make a wish in the Magic Wood and journey on to Carriganore where the merchants of Waterford are said to have hidden their treasures from Cromwell’s soldiers. The trip takes 40 minutes, travelling at 16km per hour on 6.5km of track and returning the same way between the River Suir and Waterford Greenway. Children can enjoy a treasure hunt before and during the train trip. Relax at the outdoor seating at the beautifully refurbished Kilmeadan Station and enjoy delicious home-baked treats or a creamy 99 ice cream from the Whistlestop Café.

Terrie

From Terrie's guidebook

A community heritage project, the Waterford Suir Valley Railway has enabled the magic of rails golden age to be brought to life in Kilmeadan. A heritage narrow gauge railway runs along 17 kilometres of the abandoned Waterford Dungarvan line

Paula

From Paula's guidebook

Mount Congreve House & Gardens – A Blooming Beauty 🌿🏡 These historic gardens, now under government care, are being beautifully redeveloped—well worth a visit! 🍽️ Great restaurant for a bite to eat 🛍️ Lovely shop to browse for gifts or treats 🌸 Best time to visit? May–June for the stunning azaleas 🌺 Later in the season for the vibrant rhododendrons 🌿 A peaceful and picturesque spot to enjoy nature and a bit of history! ✨If you are on the Waterford Greenway you can assess from the cycle route.

Katie

From Katie's guidebook

The gardens consist of around 70 acres of intensively planted woodland garden and a 4 acre walled garden. The owner, the late Mr Ambrose Congreve, was inspired by Mr Lionel de Rothschild’s exceptional garden at Exbury in Hampshire, England. The entire collection consists of over 3,000 different trees and shrubs, more than 2,000 Rhododendrons, 600 Camellias, 3000 Acer cultivars, 600 conifers, 250 climbers and 1,500 herbaceous plants.

Daphne

From Daphne's guidebook

Mount Congreve House and Gardens is one of "The Great Gardens of the World" and the house, home to six generations of Congreves, was built in 1760 by the celebrated architect John Roberts. Explore the gardens and relax afterwards in The Stables Cafe.

Tomás

From Tomás's guidebook

Opportunities for hillwalking abound in the Comeragh mountains. Set off from the Nire Valley or from Mahon Falls at the Waterford side. Drive to Lemybrien and take the short walk into to Comshingaun lake-the biggest corry lake in Europe.

Louise

From Louise's guidebook

Located 40 minutes away from Waterford City centre, this easy to access mountain range offers wonderful vistas across the county and down to the sea. Described by some as Ireland’s best kept secret, the Comeraghs offer everything from a dramatic waterfall down a cliff face to the mystery of the ‘magic road’ which runs through the gap of the range. There are many different walks you can take, from easy to moderate and difficult. Check the links on the entry. (50 minutes by car)

Francis

From Francis's guidebook

A walk in the Comeragh Mountains is a great day out. A 15 minute drive from Kilmacthomas.

Donna

From Donna's guidebook

Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm Ballysop, New Ross, Co. Wexford Y34 KA48 Dedicated to the memory of U.S President John F. Kennedy, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park stretches across 623 acres, near New Ross in County Wexford. This tranquil arboretum features over 500 different rhododendron and azaleas and an internationally important collection of over 4,500 different trees and shrubs, some of which are very rare. A small islet-studded lake on the site is home to large numbers of mallard, moorhen and rudd, while a nearby magnolia collection contains some outstanding specimens. Forest plots at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park are divided into areas containing trees from each of the five continents of the world. The ideal place for a reflective ramble, the park features woodland walks, a playground, tree houses and a lake with ducks and fish. A miniature train and a pony and trap operate during high season, while six different counties can be seen from the spectacular viewing points on nearby Slieve Coillte. Group guided walks of the memorial are provided by arrangement in advance.

Dorothy

From Dorothy's guidebook

John F. Kennedy Arboretum on the Hook Peninsula is near New Ross. It is set on a 622 acre Irish heritage park with thousands of species of trees, plants and flowers. Two visitor exhibitions are dedicated to President John F. Kennedy.

Geraldine

From Geraldine's guidebook

Beautiful parkland with thousands of varieties of trees, shrubs and flowers, trees from every country in the world and also every species of native Irish tree. Named in honour of John F. Kennedy whose family came from nearby. A beautiful spot to spend a few hours close to nature, also houses interesting exhibition on the life of JFK and other exhibits about the trees and history of the arboretum. Nice kids playground and plenty of picnic tables nearby to enjoy along with coffee van serving refreshments. Just across from entrance to park is the trail to viewing point of Slieve Coillte (3 km hike) or short drive with car park at summit. Absolutely amazing views looking out over six surrounding counties, well worth the short drive or if you’re feeling energetic the hike up.

Onagh

From Onagh's guidebook

Tramore is a quick drive away and known for its wide sandy beaches (excellent for swimming) and surf schools. There’s also a skate board park and award winning Inclusion Playground, Amusement Park/ fairground (in season) and arcades. We love the Japanese Gardens in Tramore The original Seagull Bakery is also in the town. The recently opened Beach House restaurant is superb and you can believe all the excellent reviews! This needs to be booked well in advance. If you visit Guillamene Cove in Tramore for a dip you can enjoy a coffee & sausage blaa from Sea Brew Coffee. There is an area for the brave to dive from and another easier area for swimmers like me! Look out for the Unbeetable Food Truck for healthy lunches with vegan options. It’s at the Pickardstown petrol station on the way into Tramore and one of my favourite places to eat. And for a coffee / drink with a view, visit the recently opened One Waterfront is in Tramore town. We saw a lizard scampering up the wooden steps from the beach there!

Margaret

From Margaret's guidebook

Long sandy blue flag beach for walking, swimming and surfing. There are lots of surf schools along the promenade where you can hire a board or take a surfing lesson. Lots of cafes and restaurants on the promenade.

Jackie

From Jackie's guidebook

Whether a short stroll or a walk around the sandhills (1-2hrs) there is something for everybody here. Take time to get a coffee, sambo or more, in one of the many coffee/cafes along the prom on the way back.

Daphne

From Daphne's guidebook

Caumshingaun Lake is a spectacular corrie lake located in the Comeragh mountains. It is a moderately challenging hike to the lake with breathtaking views. You can also do a much more challenging hike , The Caumshingaun Loop, that takes you up around the top of the lake.

Eithne

From Eithne's guidebook

This is a great hiking trail with different trails which range from moderate to difficult. I have completed the moderate trail myself with little hiking experience and it is very achievable. I would recommend hiking boots and layering up on a breezy day. The final destination is absolutely worth it.

Caroline

From Caroline's guidebook

We would definitely recommend this lake because it is a great destination for families and solo hikers because it is a good hike up to the lake and when you get up there you can enjoy the views while unpacking a picnic. You could go for a little swim in the lake while you’re there as well. In the spring to summer months frogspawn can be seen dotted around the sides of the lake. It is also the best example of a Corrie in Europe.

Clo

From Clo's guidebook

Absolutely beautiful walk with breathtaking views of the coastline from Dunmore East to the beautiful stoney Portally Cove with crystal clear water. Top tip in summer take swimming togs and a picnic!

Paula

From Paula's guidebook

Dunmore East Cliff Walk – A Little Slice of Heaven Dunmore East holds a special place in my heart—it’s where I spent my childhood holidays, and I still think it’s one of the best spots to spend a whole day. 🏖️ What’s there to do? A great choice of restaurants 🍽️ Beautiful beaches for a dip 🌊 A playground to keep the little ones happy 🎠 ☀️ Sunny day tip: Grab a seat on the terrace of The Strand Hotel—it’s a perfect spot to soak up the view with a drink in hand. 🍷 🌿 Hidden Cove: If you walk through the park opposite The Haven Hotel, you’ll find steps down to a lovely little cove—great for exploring or a swim. 🚶‍♀️ My favourite thing to do? Pack a picnic and swim gear, then take the Dunmore East Cliff Walk to Portally Cove. On a sunny summer’s day, it’s an absolute slice of heaven. 🌞🏝️ Whether you’re after food, adventure, or just a bit of nostalgia, Dunmore East has it all! 💙

Onagh

From Onagh's guidebook

Starts from the harbour in the village. It’s a lightly trafficked out and back easy trail. It is suitable for children, but it’s exposed in places and close to cliff edge. Walk to Portally for an evening swim in a stunning and quiet cove. Dunmore to Portally Cove and back - 5 km - 1 hour Dunmore to Rathmoylan Cove and back - 6 km – 1.5 hours Dunmore to Ballymacaw and back - 8 km - 2 hours

Colleen

From Colleen's guidebook

Tramore has a huge amusement park. "Tramore Amusement Park is an absolute Must to visit. A fifty acre wonderland situated just 6 miles from Waterford City in the South East of Ireland. It is the ideal place to go for a day trip, a midweek getaway, or a weekend break with the family. For all you thrill seekers check out some of the best rides in Europe including a gigantic Ferris Wheel, The Classic Mega Spin Waltzer, The Extreme Afterburner, The Crazy Mouse Spinning Roller Coaster and The Super Paratrooper. Swing to the beat on the future dance miami"

Caroline

From Caroline's guidebook

Tramore is one of the must go places if your going to Waterford, With long golden beaches, an amusement park and a water park it is a great spot to visit with the family and if your by your own you could try out a few surf lessons.It has lots of great food places as well including Dooleys the chipper and lots of good ice cream places as well and it is only about half an hour or less from the lodge

Mairead

From Mairead's guidebook

50km about 70 min drive. A favourite seaside town, 10 minutes from Waterford, with water sports and amusements for the children