Visit Wexford

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

Where to stay and eat

Wexford has so much to choose from when it comes to overnight accommodation. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodation with spa facilities, a boutique hotel or something in the way of a B&B, here are a few of the many great options available in Wexford town and County to help you make the most of your visit to the National Opera House.