Wexford

Wexford, a county in Ireland's sun-kissed southeast, offers a distinctive blend of enduring history, expansive coastlines, and a lively cultural landscape. Known as the 'Sunny South East' for receiving more hours of sunshine than any other Irish county, Wexford unfurls over 200 kilometers of coastline, featuring long sandy beaches and quaint fishing villages. From its Viking beginnings to its pivotal role in Irish rebellions, the county's past is etched into its landscapes and towns, providing a compelling narrative for those who explore.

The county town of Wexford, situated at the mouth of the River Slaney, serves as a gateway to exploring this captivating region. Beyond the historical sites, Wexford is also recognized for its agricultural bounty, particularly its strawberries, which are celebrated annually at the Enniscorthy Strawberry Festival. Whether seeking historical immersion, outdoor adventures, or a taste of local character, Wexford presents a unique Irish experience that often surprises those who venture beyond the more frequented tourist paths.

Wexford is a place where ancient ruins stand beside modern amenities, and where the sea is a constant, inspiring presence. Its relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere invite visitors to linger and uncover the many stories held within its towns, castles, and coastal stretches.

## From Viking Stronghold to Norman Conquest Wexford's story begins around 800 AD with the arrival of the Vikings, who established the town and named it 'Waesfjord,' meaning 'inlet of flat mud lands.' For approximately 300 years, the Vikings thrived as traders, governing the town independently. This era left a lasting mark, with the town's narrow, winding streets serving as a testament to their defensive planning against potential invaders.

## The Anglo-Norman Arrival and Medieval Period In 1169, the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland began in County Wexford. Led by Dermot MacMurrough Kavanagh and Robert Fitzstephen, the Normans besieged and eventually took control of Wexford town from the Vikings. This marked a significant shift, and Wexford became a predominantly English settlement during the Middle Ages. King John officially formed County Wexford in 1210 during his visit to Ireland. During this period, Cistercian monasteries, such as Dunbrody Abbey and Tintern Abbey, flourished.

## Cromwellian Era and the 1798 Rebellion The 17th century brought further turmoil, with Wexford heavily involved in the Confederate Wars. In October 1649, Oliver Cromwell and his English Parliamentarian Army sacked Wexford town, resulting in the massacre of soldiers and civilians, and the destruction of much of the town and its harbor. Cromwell famously stated that the inhabitants "were made with their blood to answer for the cruelties they had exercised upon diverse poor Protestants."

A pivotal moment in Irish history, the 1798 Rebellion against British rule, saw its heaviest fighting in County Wexford. The rebellion began in late May 1798, with rebels achieving victories at the Battle of Oulart Hill and taking Enniscorthy. Wexford town was held by the rebels, becoming the scene of a massacre of loyalists by the United Irishmen. The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy commemorates these events.

## Modern Wexford Following the 1798 Rebellion, County Wexford experienced a period of political stability, becoming an important port for trade. However, it also suffered during the Great Famine due to its reliance on potatoes as a food source. In the mid-19th century, the unique local language known as 'Yola' became extinct, though its influence can still be heard in the local accent. Today, Wexford embraces its layered past, blending its historical significance with a modern identity as a cultural and agricultural hub.

Begin your exploration in Wexford Town, wandering its Viking-influenced narrow streets that gently slope towards the harbor. Visit the Irish National Heritage Park, an outdoor museum spanning 40 acres, which brings 9,000 years of Irish history to life with reconstructed settlements from prehistoric times through the Viking and Norman eras. For a dramatic coastal experience, head to the Hook Peninsula to explore Hook Lighthouse, one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the world, offering guided tours and expansive views where the Irish Sea meets the Atlantic.

Discover the ancestral home of the Kennedy family at the Kennedy Homestead in New Ross, a museum and farm still run by descendants of John F. Kennedy's great-grandfather, Patrick Kennedy. Nearby, the Dunbrody Famine Ship offers a poignant look into the emigration stories of the Famine era. For beach lovers, Curracloe Beach, known as a filming location for 'Saving Private Ryan,' offers a vast stretch of sand and dunes. Consider a visit to Tintern Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian ruin with scenic trails and the restored Colclough Walled Garden.

The best time to visit Wexford is from May to September, when the days are longer and the weather is generally warmer and drier. Wexford is known as Ireland's 'Sunny South East,' receiving more sunshine hours than any other county. While July and August are the warmest months, with average temperatures between 14-16°C, they also mark the high season for tourism, leading to increased crowds and prices. Late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer visitors and potentially better accommodation rates. Even outside peak season, city breaks can be enjoyable, with many pubs and restaurants offering a cozy atmosphere.

Wexford is easily accessible, located in the southeast of Ireland. It's approximately a two-hour drive from Dublin, with scenic train routes also available. For getting around the county, while bus routes serve larger towns, renting a car is recommended to explore sights further afield and discover the more rural attractions. The local accent in Wexford is distinctive, influenced by the extinct Yola language. When packing, be prepared for changeable weather, even in summer. Layers are advisable, along with comfortable, waterproof shoes for walking and exploring. Sunscreen is recommended for clear days. Accommodations range from hotels along the quay to peaceful spots along the River Slaney, with options like The Talbot and Ferrycarrig offering good value.