Heritage runs deep in Wexford. It was founded by the Vikings in or around 800 A.D. They named it Veisafjoror, ‘Inlet of the mud flats’, and it remained a Viking town for approximately 300 years. In 1169, the Normans arrived into Ireland onto the shores of Wexford at the request of the recently ousted High King of Leinster. The Normans battled to reclaim his kingdom and as a ‘thank-you’, the King of Leinster, Diarmait Mac Murchada, gave his daughter Aoife’s hand in marriage to the Norman leader, Strongbow. Thus the Anglo-Irish relationship began. Today, Norse and Norman influences combine in Wexford, a town that has retained its compact, medieval feel – though the only invading hordes you are likely to encounter these days are the opera buffs descending on the town for the annual international Wexford Festival Opera. Presuming you are travelling by car rather than longboat, routes connecting the highlights of the Cornerstone of Ireland make for some great driving trips, ranging from the towns themselves to all the rivers, beaches, festivals, castles, forts, abbeys and cafés in-between. Find out more about our magnificent county at www.visitwexford.ie
Visit Wexford
The beautiful, historic and diverse county of Wexford is located on the most south easterly corner of the island of Ireland. Wexford is one of Ireland’s top places to visit and holiday, boasting 275 kilometres of coastline with golden sandy beaches, rocky headlands, cliffs and nature reserves plus vibrant towns and a calendar filled with festivals.
