From Viking Lore to Guinness Pour – Waterford Has It All
Waterford, a charming city in southeast Ireland, is known for its rich history, beautiful landmarks, and vibrant culture. It is the oldest city in Ireland, founded by the Vikings over 1,000 years ago. It offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s Viking past, admiring beautiful glassware, or enjoying the lively pub scene, there’s something for everyone in this fun hamlet.
Here are 8 Greats:
- Visit Waterford Crystal: Waterford Crystal is one of the most popular attractions in Waterford, Ireland. Visitors can take a guided tour of the factory and see skilled artisans creating beautiful glassware. There is also a showroom where you can purchase unique and stunning pieces of their Crystal.
- Explore the Viking Triangle: The Viking Triangle is a historic district that was once home to the Vikings. It’s now a cultural and arts hub with museums, galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Medieval Museum, housed in a 13th-century building that showcases Waterford’s history.
- Take a river cruise: The town is situated on the River Suir, and taking a river cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You’ll see historic landmarks, including Reginald’s Tower, the city walls, and the Bishop’s Palace.
- Visit the Waterford Treasures Museum: The Waterford Treasures Museum is a collection of three museums that showcase history and culture. The museums include the Medieval Museum, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Reginald’s Tower.
- Go on a walking tour: The town has many historical landmarks and sights, and a walking tour is a great way to see them. The Walking Tours company offers guided tours that cover the Viking Triangle, the city walls, and more.
- Take a trip to Dunmore East: Dunmore East is a picturesque fishing village outside Waterford. It’s a popular destination for day trips and offers stunning coastal views, great seafood, and outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking.
- Attend the Waterford Spraoi Festival: The Waterford Spraoi Festival is an annual event in August. It’s a three-day celebration of music, street performance, and art. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.
- Enjoy a pint of Guinness at a local pub: Ireland is famous for its pubs, and Waterford has many great options. Head to a local pub and enjoy a pint of Guinness or a traditional Irish meal while soaking up the atmosphere.
Did you know?
Waterford is home to Ireland’s oldest civic urban public park, known as the People’s Park. It was initially opened in 1857 and was designed by a well-known architect named John Skipton Mulvany.
The park is in the city’s heart and features a stunning fountain, a playground, and a Victorian bandstand. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a picnic, stroll, or relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
A little history:
Waterford’s history goes back to the Viking Age. The city was founded in 914 AD by the Vikings, who named it Veðrafjǫrðr, meaning “windy fjord.” The Vikings established a thriving settlement in the area, becoming an important trade and commerce center.
In the centuries that followed, the town changed hands several times. The Normans ruled it in the 12th century, and the English in the 1500s. During this time, it became an important port and center for trade with continental Europe.
The city played a crucial role in Ireland’s struggle for independence in the early 1900s. In 1916, a group of rebels led by Thomas MacDonagh occupied the city, but British forces quickly defeated them. It also played a role in the Irish War of Independence, which lasted from 1919 to 1921.
Waterford is is known for its beautiful landmarks, including the Waterford Crystal factory and Reginald’s Tower, as well as its lively pub scene and annual festivals.
