Discover Waterford

From our vibrant city life, to the rural charm of inland towns and villages, to our stunning coastline, Waterford has something for everyone. Below is a little taste of what Waterford city, county and hinterland has to offer.

A taste of the Culture & Heritage of Waterford City

City Walks Waterford

Waterford City the oldest city in Ireland, is the perfect blend of ancient and modern. Take a City walk with Jack Burtchaell to hear more about our remarkable history.

Waterford Museum of Treasures, The Quay, Waterford City

The Museum of Treasures is both a treasury and treasure trail that takes you through 1000 years of history of Ireland’s oldest city. The treasure trail and personal sound guide allow you to encounter the past at your own pace, to stop and marvel at the rare and beautiful artefacts and to explore them in depth through a series of interactive and audiovisual presentations.

Edmund Rice Heritage Centre, Barrack St., Waterford City

Experience this new interactive museum and visitor centre dedicated to Edmund Rice. Live the Edmund Rice story through an atmospheric and interactive experience; see where Christian and Presentation Brothers and their colleagues respond to the greatest needs in the World; and pray at the tomb of Edmond Rice in a new chapel named for him.

Reginalds Tower – The Mall, Waterford City

A tower has stood on this site for over a thousand years. The present structure from the 12th century with a second phase in the 15th century, is the oldest urban civic building in the country.

Christ Church Cathedral, Waterford City

Christ Church Cathedral has been at the heart of Waterford City since the 10th Century when the vikings built the first Church on the site. The restored and refurbished cathedral is a magnificent 18th Century building designed by John Roberts. The building is steeped in the heritage and history of Waterford with medieval tombs, memorial wall plaques, and beautiful stucco plasterwork ceilings.

The Irish Handmade Glass Company, Kite Design Studio, Henrietta St., Waterford

Irish Handmade Glass is Ireland's newest glass company which is based in the newly developed Viking Quarter in the heart of Waterford City. Following the closure of the world renowned Waterford Crystal Factory in Kilbarry in 2009, four craftsmen decided that their unique talents should no be lost forever. Master Cutter, Danny Murphy, along with Master Glass Blowers, Derek Smith and Tony Hayes and renowned Master Glass Blower Richard Rowe put their plan into action and their efforts has produced a dynamic new Irish Glass brand with an innovative and exciting product range.

Sean Egan Art Glass, Kite Design Centre, Henrietta St., Waterford.

Sean Egan Art Glass was set up in April 2009 by, Sean Egan, a Master Engraver with Waterford Crystal for 35 years. When Waterford Crystal ceased manufacturing in Waterford City in January 2009, Sean opened his own business, as a freelance crystal engraver.
His aim is to keep the age old skill of copper wheel engraving on crystal alive in Waterford and Ireland. An age old craft which has been practiced in Waterford for many decades, Sean was passionate that the skill would not be left to die.

9/11 Tribute Piece

In 2006 whilst working at Waterford Crystal, Sean Egan a Master Engraver was creating the 9/11 Sculpture. While touring the Waterford Crystal factory Michael O’Rourke, a 26 year veteran of FDNY, was amazed to see the image Sean was engraving was that of FDNY chaplain, Father Mychal Judge, being carried from the World Trade Center on 9/11. Sean explained that he wanted to do a tribute piece for all those who died on 9/11 and was working on the creation in his own time.

House of Waterford Crystal, The Mall, Waterford City

The House of Waterford Crystal includes a Guided Factory Tour and an Opulent Retail Store featuring the largest collection of the world's most coveted crystal.

A taste of the natural beauty of Waterford

The Copper Coast UNESCO European Geopark, Bunmahon, Waterford

Discover the ancient story behind the formation of the rock, cliffs and inlets of this spectacular coastline. It is a place rich in mining heritage, geology and archaeology and home of the National Nature Reserve Fenor Bog.

Lismore Castle Gardens and Art Gallery, Lismore, Waterford

The castle gardens are set in seven acres within the 7th century outer defensive walls and have spectacular views of Lismore Castle. The west wing of the castle has been converted into a contemporary art gallery.

Mount Congreve Gardens, Kilmeaden, Waterford

A beautiful eighty acre garden consisting of extensively planted woodland, 2000 different rhodendrons, magnolia walks, a Camellia collection and a Georgian green house.

Tourin House and Gardens – Cappoquin, Waterford

Situated 3 miles south of Cappoquin, the main house was built in 1840 in the Italianate style with a magnificent hall and staircase. The original tower house still stands surrounded by mature trees and a walled gardens.

A taste of the varied leisure activities in Waterford

Golfing in Waterford

Think Golf – think the South East.
Home to the world famous, Jack Nicklaus designed, Mount Juliet, the South East boasts a staggering 37 excellent golf courses. With the best weather and value for money to be found anywhere in the country, it’s little wonder Ireland’s South East is such a popular destination for natives and visitors alike. Here’s a sample of a few:

• Waterford Castle Golf Club
• Faithlegg Golf Club
• Mount Juliet Golf Club
• Tramore Golf Club
• Dunmore East Golf Club

Horse Riding in Waterford

The going is always good for horse riding and racing enthusiasts in the South East. The region is famed for its long history in breeding some of the finest bloodstock in the world and is the ideal destination for any equestrian fan. Stonehaven equestrian centre is very close to the city centre of Waterford.

Horse racing

in the South East, you’re never too far from a race meeting. Meetings are held throughout the year. Check out www.hri.ie for race schedules.

Greyhound Racing

is an exciting night out. Kilcohan greyhound stadium is our local track and offers a full catering service for individuals and groups. Check out www.igb.ie for dates and bookings.

Gaelic Games

are our native sports including the thrilling game of Hurling, famed for its break-neck pace and exciting encounters. Gaelic Football, Camogie, Hurling and Ladies Football are played in every town for at least nine months of the year. Why not experience the excitement and thrill of great club and county rivalry first hand by going along to any of the local Gaelic Games events held throughout the region. Visitors are always welcome to come and watch – it’s a unique experience you won’t forget! Check local press for fixtures or www.gaa.ie

Walking & Cycling in Waterford

Walking and cycling are great ways to get off the beaten track and enjoy all the beautiful scenery the South East has to offer.

Walking Destinations:
City Walks Waterford
Waterford City the oldest city in Ireland, is the perfect blend of ancient and modern. Take a City walk with Jack Burtchaell to hear more about our remarkable history.

The Nire Valley, Co. Waterford has terrain to suit every grade of walker from complete beginner to experienced mountaineer.
The Glen of Aherlow, Co. Tipperary has plenty of opportunity for walking, rambling, horse riding, cycling and fishing
Check out Discover Ireland walking for more detailed routes and destinations

Karting

Kiltorcan Raceway Karting Circuit for more information. A perfect combination to a weekend in Waterford. Relive those Formula 1 moments.

Waterford Farmers' Markets

Take in the atmosphere of our farmers' markets, by browsing around and sampling the local and organice produce such as farmhouse cheeses, salmon, meats and a wide range of organic fruit and vegetables.

• Ardkeen Artisan Market, Ardkeen Shopping Centre - Every 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month from 10am - 2pm
• Waterford Food & Craft Market, John Roberts Square - Saturday 10am - 2pm
• Tramore Country Market, Coastguard Station - Sunday 2:00pm - 4:00pm

A taste of Children's Activities in Waterford

Rain or shine, Waterford has activities for all. The free Cool for Kids Fun for Families guide has lots of details. Below is a list of some local children's activities.

• Visit the Copper Coast Mini Farm
• Visit Splashworld in Tramore
• Take a train drive on the Suir Valley
• Learn to surf
• Try some outdoor activities at Dunmore Adventure Centre
• Run Amuck
• Pirate's Adventure
• Try your hand at Sea Kayaking, fun all the family
• Go Bowling in Waterford, Kidzone also available
• Take in the speed and excitment of some Karting
• Blast the folks away with some Laser Blast

Book a break away in Dooley's Hotel Waterford city centre