Wexford is the county town of County Wexford, Ireland. It is a hot spot for Dubliners and day-trippers. A perfect destination to escape the city. One can spend time on the many beaches dotting the coastline. Founded by the Vikings around AD 800. This town is relatively small. It’s said that this destination is a delightful town to explore. Especially around the waterfront and the Wexford Harbour area.
Here are the Best Tourist Attractions in Wexford
1. Johnstown Castle
Johnstown Castle is located on the Johnstown Castle Estate. It is 150 acres, located off the road between Murntown, Rathaspeck, and southwest of Wexford town. This is a stunning castle with beautiful gardens on the outskirts of Wexford. In 1945, it was a national heritage bequeathed to the Irish Nation. There’s so much to explore throughout the estate at Johnstown Castle. Visitors can find impressive ornamental gardens, and have a picnic by the lake if the weather’s fine. One can book a tour of the castle. Johnstown Castle’s major highlight is the old servants’ tunnel. It even has The Irish Agricultural Museum that showcases rural life in Wexford since the 18th century. That is complete with vintage tools and tractors.
2. Selskar Abbey
Selskar Abbey is a ruined Augustinian abbey in Wexford, Ireland. It was founded in the 12th century. This place provides an impressive history. Anglo-Irish treaties were signed, and in 1172, Henry II did penance here during Lent for purportedly ordering the killing of Thomas Becket. The abbey was left in ruins by Cromwell’s troops in 1649 during the notorious massacre and pillaging that took place. Selskar Abbey is located close to another popular tourist attraction, the Westgate Heritage Tower. Visitors can explore two attractions one after the other.
3. Wexford Lavender Farm
The Lavender Farm is a photographer’s dream. It is two sprawling fields of fragrant lavender that look every bit as good as they smell. This lavender farm has no entry fees. They are open in spring and summer. The Lavender Farm features woodland walks, crafting, plant sales, and play areas for kids. Such as the popular Billy the Bull quad barrel train ride.
4. The National Heritage Park
The National Heritage Park has 9,000 years of Irish history. It is an open-air museum. That brings Ireland’s ancient past to life with accurate reconstructions of the crannógs, forts, and portal dolmens. Visitors can explore life-sized buildings and settlements, forage like a pre-historic farmer, or even spend the night in their medieval ring fort, where they can party like it’s 2,000 BC.
5. The Saltee Islands
From Kilmore Quay, a 20-minute boat ride brings you to Great Saltee. It is a tiny private island. Where visitors can find seals, puffins, and thousands of noisy gannets gathered on rocks. Saltee Island is very famous for day-trippers and birders. These unspoiled outcrops are Ireland’s largest bird reserve. The nesting place of some 30 species, including cormorants, puffins, razorbills, and fulmars.
6. Hook Lighthouse
Hook Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the world that is still in use. The present structure has graced these shores for nearly 850 years. Visitors can find spectacular sea views from the top. It is worth every one of the 115 steps. They can even witness the fantastic sunset. However, Hook Lighthouse is regularly voted one of the top tourist attractions in Wexford.