Johnstown Castle, Gardens & Museum
The exquisite 19th century Victorian castle, which gives the estate it's name, is nestled within 50 acres of ornamental grounds. Enjoy a stroll through the wooded grounds with over 200 different kinds of trees and shrubs, or why not relax by the castle lakeside with its Gothic towers and waterfalls. Ramble along the lake terrace walk lined with statues to the garden lake. Both lakes are home to a wide range of waterfowl e.g. swans and little grebes. Pass through the Devil's Gateway into the walled ornamental garden and hothouses. This hidden paradise provides a dazzling, colourful array of flowering plants. The sunken Italian Garden contains a shaded picnic area where one can sit and watch the peacocks strut by. Other attractions include the ruin of a medieval tower house called Rathlannon Castle and the old farm buildings which house the Irish Agricultural Museum.
Please note that unfortunately, Johnstown Castle itself is not open to the public.
L: Murrintown, Co Wexford | T: + 353 (0) 53 9171200
Enniscorthy Castle & 1798 Rebellion Centre
Ennsicorthy Castle explores the development of the Castle and town from its earliest Anglo-Norman origins, with a special focus on the Castle of a Family Home. The Exhibition explores the 1916 rising in Enniscorthy (the only town to rise outside of Dublin) and the work of the renowned Irish Furniture designer and Architect Eileen Gray. Spectacular views are visible from the roof of the castle (accessible only during guided tours) of the nearby countryside and Vinegar Hill. The National Rebellion Centre is located in the shadow of Vinegar Hill. The Centre tells the epic and heroic tale of the 1798 Rebellion and its aftermath using the latest multi-media and interactive exhibits.
L: Enniscorthy, Co Wexford | +353 (0) 53 9237596
The Irish National Heritage Park
If visiting Wexford, a visit to the Irish National Heritage Park is a must. Surprises await around every corner as you explore 35 acres of this remarkable heritage trail. From campsite to Ringfort, from mill to Fulacht Fiadh, from Crannog to Viking house, every activity is an unexpected adventure into 9000 years. This world you enter is an authentic recreation of Ireland’s heritage. Homesteads, places of ritual, burial modes and long forgotten remains will enlighten the tourist and interest the scholar. The Park, Restaurant & Shop are open every day, all year round.
Opening Times: May-August 9.30-6.30 (last Admission time 5pm) September-April 9.30-5.30pm (last admission time 3-4pm
L: Ferrycarrig, Co Wexford | T: +353 (0) 53 9120733
Wells House & Gardens
Located in Ballyedmond, Gorey, Co. Wexford is just over a 20 minute drive from Talbot Suites at Stonebridge and waiting to be explored is Wells House & Gardens, a Great Victorian House and Gardens in the heart of Wexford. Wells House has something for all generations to enjoy and share:
Woodland Walks - Discover hidden treasures in a verdant landscape of mature plants and trees on our two woodland walks: The Lady Frances Woodland Walk & Mogue’s Woodland Walk.
Victorian Terrace Gardens - Relax in the beautiful formal gardens based on the original Daniel Robertson plans of the 1830’s.
Adventure Playground - Swings, slides and climbing frames, perfect for all kids!
Living Victorian House Tour - Experience real life in a Victorian Great house through the eyes of Lady Frances and the residents of Wells House
Wells House Archery - Let the resident Archer show you how to shoot a bow at the only 3D course in Ireland open to the public.
Wells House Falconry - Come and meet our Falconer’s majestic birds on a hawk walk – booking required
The Oak Tree - Enjoy morning coffees, hearty lunches and delicious desserts. For a special treat Afternoon Tea is also available.
Craft Courtyard - The old stables at Wells House have been converted into a welcoming Craft Courtyard and provides the perfect showcase for contemporary arts, crafts & a recently opened art gallery. With numerous Crafters displaying and selling their crafts this is the perfect place to come and buy a special gift for friends, family or even for yourself!
Come wander and explore all this historic estate has to offer and witness how the house and Arboretum, Lake and Ha Ha’s are further restored for future generations.
T: +353 (0) 53 9186737
The Dunbrody Famine Ship
The visitor experience provides a unique insight into a period of history which shaped modern day Ireland and America. Begin with a 9 minute audio-visual presentation which gives the historic background to the Great Famine, and the reason why so many people were forced to emigrate to America on sailing ships like Dunbrody in the mid-19th century.
See fascinating footage of the building of the replica Dunbrody, the emotional day of her launching and her maiden voyage in 2005. Follow in the footsteps of a group of Famine emigrants as you board the Dunbrody. Become a passenger with a ticket issued to you as if it were 1849 allocating your space and food rations for the voyage ahead. Explore the ship fitted out exactly as it would be for a voyage. You will encounter actors, playing the role of emigrants, in their cramped quarters with their meagre possessions, fleeing as they are a worse catastrophe. Hear their harrowing stories of being forced to emigrate. A member of the crew will tell you the story of other voyages and all about life on board a sailing ship.
L: New Ross, Co Wexford | T: + 353 (0) 51 425239
John F Kennedy Arboretum
This amazing arboretum of 623 acres (252ha) is dedicated to the memory of U.S. President John F Kennedy. Containing over 500 different rhododendron and azaleas, part of an important international collection of over 4000 different trees and shrubs, some vary rare, and a small islet studded lake home to large numbers of mallard, moorhen and rudd. A magnolia collection nearby has some outstanding specimens. Facilities include woodland walks, a playground, tree houses, and a lake with ducks and fish to feed. A miniature train operates during the summer months and a pony and trap during high season. Six different countries can be seen from the spectacular viewing points on Slieve Coillte. The forest plots are divided into areas containing trees from five continents. A particularly colourful feature is the ericaceous garden with rhododendrons, azaleas and heathers.
L: Dunganstown, New Ross, Co Wexford | T: + 353 (0) 51 388172
Hook Lighthouse
Explore the oldest operational lighthouse in the world. Voted one of Ireland’s favourite attractions, Hook Lighthouse in Wexford is truly one of a kind.
Purpose built 800 years ago by Knight William Marshal, take a step back in time and enjoy a guided tour hearing tales of medieval times and life as a lightkeeper.
Take in the spectacular view from the balcony with miles of sea rolling out before you. Enjoy the visitor centre with gift shop, exhibits and café. Guided tours are on offer 7 days a week sharing with visitors one of the greatest experiences on Ireland’s Ancient East.
L: Hook Peninsula, Co Wexford | 353 (0) 51 397055
