If you are considering an Autumn Break with the family before the kids return to school, what about Wexford? Located on the south east of Ireland, often regarded as the cornerstone of Ireland’s Ancient East, home of the Vikings and full of heritage and history. “The Model County” boasts a number of beautiful beaches to be found such as Ballymoney, Rosslare Strand and Duncannon and for the avid walker, you will find a great selection of walking trails such as Tintern and Kilmore Quay which show the diverse landscapes of Wexford.
You will find plenty of things to see and to do and places to go in Wexford; whether you are taking a day trip with the family or longer. Here is just a taster of things to do -
THE FAMILY GETAWAY
Before you set off with the family make sure you apply for Wexford’s “Passport to Fun” at: https://www.visitwexford.ie/wexford-children-passport-to-fun-download/ to keep the little ones happy on the car journey or when you need simple need to take a break from the adventures
Wells House and Gardens
Wells Estate is situated on grounds of 450 acres and is located around 7km outside of Kilmuckridge in Wexford. The house is a magnificent Victorian property which is situated amongst stunning grounds and offers a variety of things to do for all the generations such as woodland walks, an animal farm, adventure playground, - climbing frames, swings and slides. Craft Courtyard, 3D Archery and tea-room! It was opened to the public in 2012 and is one of Wexford’s most visited attractions.
August is also a great month to visit Wells House where family events are held each weekend Friday to Sunday, no booking required and ideal for keeping the children entertain. August 18th even boasts their biggest event of the year – The Little Festival at the Big House.
Vinegar Hill – If history is your thing look no further than Vinegar Hill. The Battle of Vinegar Hill fought on 21st June was an engagement during the Irish Rebellion of 1798. This was the largest rebel camp and the headquarters of Wexford United Irishmen and their supporters. Visit the 1798 Centre and meet the key figures of the Rebellion, participate in the state of the art 4D battle of Vinegar Hill Experience.
Somewhere to stay - If you want to combine your visit into a break for all the family, try the Talbot Wexford which is less than a 2 hour drive from Dublin and is a great location for all the family, is good value and also boasts a leisure centre and great family deals.
Aug/Sept Prices
Double Rooms from €100
Family Room B&B from €119
THE ROMANTIC GETAWAY
Hook Lighthouse – has been voted the number one lighthouse in the world and is an enduringly popular attraction in south east Ireland. One of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world, the present structure dates back to 800 years as a medieval tower of Hook. Today there is a visitor centre, a café, a gift shop and the tower itself to discover.
Somewhere to stay - After that adventurous visit – why not spent a few days in Brandon House Hotel and Solas Croi Eco Spa? Located between Wexford and Waterford in New Ross this hotel is perfect for the romantic break and is near New Ross Golf Club for the golf enthusiasts.
Stay Aug/Sept
Family Room from €129
B&B Double from €111
http://bit.ly/BrandonHseWexford
Ferns Castle – only half of the castle still remains, but a modern visitor centre located on site features information about the historical site as well as the Ferns Tapestry. Originally Ferns Castle formed a square, with large corner towers; today the most complete tower contains a fine circular chapel, with carved ornaments.
Somewhere to stay – The relaxing Riverside Park Hotel may be just the trick for loved up couples who need a break. This quiet hotel is located not far from Wexford town and overlooks the Slaney and boasts a large veranda for the lazy summer days. Just a stroll away is Wexford Town where you can shop until you drop or have a lazy pint listening to traditional music or simply explore the Slaney River Estuary.
Stay August / Sept
Double Rooms from €134
Family Room (2 adults, 1 child) from €139
http://bit.ly/RiversideWexford
Seafield Hotel and Spa Resort, located a 10 minute drive from Ballymoney Beach and is half an hour from Courtown is the perfect place to getaway. The hotel has a great selection of bedroom to accommodate families, from deluxe or executive rooms to two or three bedroomed courtyard suites. There is a selection of food offerings to suit all little tastes! Don’t forget to check out their award winning spa when you visit.
Stay August / Sept
Deluxe Double with Balcony from €180
One Night Dinner, Bed and Breakfast Deluxe Double from €230
And don’t forget –
Dunbrody Famine Ship
Loftus Hall
Tintern Abbey
Irish National Heritage Park
Pirates Cove