Places To Visit

Carlow Brewing Company is an independent Irish brewery, founded by the O’ Hara brothers in 1996. The brewery was built on a keen interest in the craft of brewing and a desire to revive a tradition once common in every town and village in Ireland. Situated in the historical hop and malt growing region of Ireland, “the Barrow Valley” region, Carlow Brewing Company blends this heritage with modern production standards to produce premium quality beers with distinctive taste and flavour. A range of award winning stouts and ales are produced under the O’ Hara’s brand name along with the Celtic wheat beer, Curim Gold. Carlow Brewing Company we have gone back to basics and brew their beers as they used to be brewed, with natural ingredients and no artificial additives. This leads to a superior quality product, with robust body, taste, flavour and aroma. This is particularly evident by the many accolades and awards bestowed on our brews and in particular our O’HARA’S Irish Stout.

The Copper Coast gets its name from the 19th Century copper mines that lie at its heart. It comprises some 25 kilometres of spectacular coastline consisting of beaches and coves enclosed by rocky headlands. The area is a Geopark, which is not an enclosed park but an area of countryside which is geologically interesting and easy to get at. There is a European Geoparks network - over 30 Geoparks all over Europe; there is also a growing worldwide network of Geoparks associated with UNESCO. Copper Coast is the only European Geopark wholly in the Republic. (There is one which straddles the border - Fermanagh/Cavan). There is an office in Bunmahon in a former Church of Ireland church which the Copper Coast Geopark group are gradually turning into a community, cultural and interpretive centre. Here you can get walking cards and help and guidance on what to do in the area. Copper Coast Geopark. The Copper Coast Geopark is an outdoor museum of geological records. Volcanoes, 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. You can follow the self-guided "Copper Coast" trail and walking cards are available from the Geopark Office in Bunmahon. Guided tours for schools and other groups interested in learning about the geology of the area are also available

The Dunbrody is an exact replica of the original ship built in 1845. This impressive barque carried thousands of Irish people from the desperation of the Great Famine in Ireland to America, the land that offered them hope of a better life. Located alongside the New Ross docks, the Dunbrody famine ship is a full scale reconstruction of a 19th Century famine ship and authentic replica of the three masted barque built in Quebec in 1845 for the Graves family of New Ross. Board the Dunbrody and walk in the footsteps of a group of Irish famine emigrants on their journey of hope across the Atlantic Ocean. Go below deck and enter the confined spaces, which would be home for passengers and crew for the forty five day voyage. Descend in to the cargo hold, where the exhibition describes the endurance, struggle and triumph over adversity of those 19th Century emigrants as epitomised by the story of the most famous emigrant sons of New Ross, President John F. Kennedy.

Dunmore Cave boasts some of the largest and most impressive calcite formations in Ireland. The largest of these is known as the Market Cross, a name which in recent years was adopted by a shopping centre in nearby Kilkenny. The cave was once home to a large bat colony, and there are still bats there in some of the darker and deeper parts of the cave, though considerably fewer than in the past. The cave is open year round, from 9.30am – 6.30pm every day from June to September, with earlier closing in other months. The cave is reached via a long and pretty steep flight of steps, which is fine going down but quite a climb coming out, so a reasonable level of fitness is needed. There is no accessibility for wheelchairs or for children’s buggies. There is a small but informative visitor centre, and a tearoom which serves delicious cupcakes is open during the summer months.

Edmund Rice began his educational mission among the poor of Waterford. His work was strongly supported by the people of the city, though some of his friends thought he was mad to give up a successful business career. However, the people of Waterford always expressed their appreciation for his efforts. It is fitting then that the city should hold pride of place in honouring and telling the story of Edmund Rice whose spirit and mission has spread to all six continents. Knowing the historical and cultural significance of the place, one cannot help but feel motivated and inspired. It's a refreshing change from other visitor centres and a great place for people of all ages to educate and enjoy themselves. After all, it's not easy to find a tourist attraction which appeals to everyone. That's what makes this place so special. Edmund Rice was a man of courage and commitment with a lasting legacy and global appeal. If you're looking for somewhere new, look no further.

A 13th-century castle standing on a rock at the head of the Slaney's navigable tideway. Probably built by Gerald de Prendergast during the 1230s. In 1253 it passed through marriage to the Rochford family, and by the 15th century was held by the MacMurrough Kavanaghs. It was captured by Cromwellian troops in 1649 and was used as a prison during the 1798 Rebellion. During the early 19th century the castle suffered a restoration by the Earl of Plymouth, and yet another at the end of the century by a local MP who enlarged it and used it as a residence. The building now houses the county museum. It has been renovated in 2011, with displays and tour exploring the development of the Castle and town from its earliest Anglo-Norman origins (12th Century) through to the 20th century with recreations of the last resident's rooms. The exhibition also explores the 1916 Rising in Enniscorthy when it was occupied by members of the Irish Volunteers during the Easter Rising. Visitors may also access the roof during a guided tour, offering spectacular views of the surrounding buildings, Vinegar Hill, and the Wexford countryside. Group size on tours is limited to 25. Facilities include craft & gift shop, wheelchair access to all floors and a visitor information point.

Ferns Castle was built in the 13th century by the Normans to control their territory as part of a group of massive military castles built at strategic points. The castle at Ferns in its heyday must have been particularly imposing. The three storeys of the main block were divided into vast apartments, the upper floors of which were lit by rather splendid trefoil-pointed windows, mostly grouped in pairs beneath pointed and camber-headed embrasures. The Castle was destroyed by Cromwell in 1649. During excavations in 1972-75 a rock-cut ditch was discovered around the castle walls and a drawbridge structure was also found on the south side.

The Irish National Heritage Park, located north of Wexford and near an imposing tower house, the park aims to present a 9,000 years of Irish history. It covers 35 acres and features a trail of prehistoric campsites, ringforts, Fulacht Fiadh, crannogs, Viking houses and other historic landmarks. There is no better or more comprehensive glimpse into Ireland's past than in the Irish National Heritage Park. Among the highlights include: - a crannog, a Bronze Age homestead on an artificial island, - a rath or ring-fort, - a horizontal watermill, - a monastic settlement complete with painted high cross and - a Viking boatyard and farm on the lakeshore. The museum has a souvenir shop and a restaurant to round off your visit.

Jerpoint Park is a visitor attraction in Thomastown, Co.Kilkenny. A National Monument Heritage Site with footprints of 12th Century Medieval Town & the Tomb of St. Nicholas (Bishop of Myra). Tea Rooms in Country House serving Homemade Scones a delight. Fishing on the River Nore for wild Salmon & Brown Trout on our private Fishery is special. Pony & Trap rides are magical.

Lismore Heritage Centre uses audio-visual media to chart the history of Lismore accompanied by 'Brother Declan.' The award winning audio visual display is narrated by Niall Toibin who in the guise of a monk takes you on an entertaining journey through Monastic, Viking, Norman, and Medieval Lismore to the present day. Visitors can walk through the exhibition galleries and encounter historic figures from Lismore's past. One exhibition is devoted to Robert Boyle, 'The Father of Modern Chemistry' who was responsible for the scientific principle called 'Boyle's Law.'

Paddywagon Tours specialise in guided tours of Ireland. All tour drivers are all 100% Irish and are committed to giving their passengers a 100% Irish holiday experience. You can choose from a number of exciting and fun-filled day tours, 4-day tours of the south west of Ireland, New Years tours, and even backpacker guided tours. Paddywagon offer Free Dublin Airport Bus Transfers for all our guests who book a tour or stay in their downtown luxury hostel. If you are on a budget and interested in adventure and fun and want to see all the different and diverse sides of Ireland, then you will love our 1,3,6 & 10 Day action packed tours of Ireland. The legendary Paddywagons (a luxury sparkling Green Mercedes Midi-coach, driven by highly intelligent, experienced and traned Irish guides) travel North or South; 3 days, one week or two, all year round. They don’t hibernate for winter like most other tour companies. Experience the majestic splendour of the cliffs of Moher to magic and the Giants Causeway, the lonely silence of the Burren, the beat off the bodhrán; from relaxing in a hot seaweed bath to swimming with dolphins, not to mention the Guinness Brewery, Belfast, Galway! All in one unbeatable, all-inclusive price. Accommodation in the best genuine Irish hostels, breakfast, all entry fees and all travel is included. The independent traveller wins again!

With over 120 animals in 50 exhibits, from alligators to geckos, rattlesnakes to pythons, Reptile Village Zoo is Ireland's only reptile zoo, fully licensed by the Department of the Environment. Your chance to get up close and personal with animals you'd normally only see on TV. Situated in Gowran, Co. Kilkenny, Reptile Village Zoo is suitable for all age groups. Ideal day out for families, individuals and groups. Only large groups need to prebook, otherwise just turn up whenever suits! Offering a hands on approach, the staff give you the opportunity to handle some of the friendlier snakes, lizards and tortoise. They also have a mobile education team, suitable for parties, schools, corporate events etc. The "Zoo to You" service is part of their conservation through education program.

Rothe House & Garden, a historic house in Kilkenny in the South East of Ireland, is the only example of an early 17th century merchant’s townhouse in Ireland. Built between 1594 and 1610, Rothe House is steeped in rich local and national history and a visit is high on the list of things to do in Kilkenny. The House and Garden are owned by the Kilkenny Archaeological Society, and managed by Rothe House Trust. The House is open to the public as a Museum, displaying some of the 2,500 historic artefacts collected by the Society since its founding in 1947. These artefacts all relate to Kilkenny heritage throughout the ages and some date from pre-historic times.The Garden, newly opened in 2008, is a reconstruction of an early 17th century urban garden, and has become a very popular garden to visit in Ireland.

SeaPaddling.com offer sea kayak tours along Waterford's Copper Coast and is based just outside Tramore, County Waterford. Seapaddling.com allows you the opportunity to kayak on the most beautiful stretch of the Irish coastline. The spectacular sea arches and caves of Waterford's Copper Coast are accessible to anyone who can sit in a kayak with a spirit of adventure! No experience is required as the trips are all instructor led and all safety equipment is provided. In addition to our guided half-day trips they also offer introductory Irish Canoe Union kayaking courses for paddlers aged 14 years and upwards. Their sea kayaking courses are designed to make you a better paddler. Courses are tailored for those interested in learning sea kayaking basics, those who want to improve their paddling skill level and for those who intend to be responsible for others on the water whether as professional or recreational paddlers. Courses are approved by the Irish Canoe Union and certificates are issued upon the completion of each course. Activities include: Guided tours / Water sports accessories / Private tuition / Corporate paddles / Expeditions

Offering panoramic coastal walks in the South East from the Hook, Kilmore Quay, Carnsore Point, St Helens, Rosslare etc. Our aim is to offer 1.5/2 hr guided relaxed walks with local info on history and flora and fauna, followed by tasty lunch. Walks and Lunch €20. Walk only €10. Transport €10 extra from Wexford Tourist Office. Walks on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Ring Catherine 086.1508498