Ferrycarrig, Co. Wexford, Ireland

Irish National Heritage Park


The Irish National Heritage Park is an open-air museum near Wexford which tells the story of human settlement in Ireland from the Mesolithic period right up to the Norman Invasion in 1169.

Location

About

The Irish National Heritage Park Museum in the Republic of Ireland is an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore the country's rich history and culture. Located in Wexford, the park is a living history museum that showcases Ireland's heritage, from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with a warm welcome from the staff, who are knowledgeable and passionate about the park's history. The park is beautifully laid out, with winding paths leading through recreated ancient landscapes, from Neolithic settlements to Viking villages.

One of the most striking aspects of the park is the attention to detail. The structures and buildings are built using traditional methods, and the exhibits are well curated, giving visitors a real sense of what life was like in ancient Ireland. The park also has live demonstrations of ancient crafts, including woodworking, metalworking, and weaving, giving visitors a chance to see how these crafts were practiced in ancient times.

For those interested in prehistoric Ireland, the park's extensive collection of prehistoric monuments, including a Mesolithic fish trap, a Bronze Age burial mound, and a reconstructed crannóg, provide a fascinating insight into the country's earliest inhabitants. Visitors can also explore a replica of a prehistoric farmstead and watch demonstrations of ancient farming practices.

For those interested in Ireland's more recent history, the park's Viking village offers an immersive experience of life in a Viking settlement, complete with replica buildings, boats, and weapons. Visitors can also learn about the Norman invasion of Ireland and the medieval period through the park's recreated castle and town.

The park is also home to a beautiful woodland and wetland area, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The park's café offers delicious, locally sourced food, and the gift shop sells a range of souvenirs and crafts made by local artisans.

Overall, the Irish National Heritage Park Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Ireland's rich history and culture. The park's attention to detail, knowledgeable staff, and immersive exhibits provide a truly unique experience that is both educational and entertaining. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a day out with the family, the park is sure to delight and inspire.

Things to do nearby



Ireland is known for its rich cultural heritage, and the Irish National Heritage Park is one of the best places to explore the country's ancient history. Located in Ferrycarrig, County Wexford, this park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the culture and history of Ireland. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best places and things to do near the Irish National Heritage Park from a tourist perspective.

1. Visit Wexford Town

Wexford Town is a beautiful and historic town located just a few miles from the Irish National Heritage Park. This town is famous for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and medieval architecture. Visitors can take a stroll through the town, explore the local shops, and enjoy the many cafes and restaurants that line the streets. The town is also home to several historic landmarks, including the 12th-century Wexford Castle and the 13th-century Selskar Abbey.

2. Explore Hook Head Lighthouse

Located on the Hook Peninsula, just a short drive from the Irish National Heritage Park, Hook Head Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Ireland. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of the surrounding area, and learn about the history of the lighthouse and its keepers. The lighthouse is also a popular spot for fishing and water sports, with several boat tours available for visitors.

3. Take a Trip to the Saltee Islands

The Saltee Islands are a group of small islands located off the coast of County Wexford. Visitors can take a boat tour to the islands, which are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including puffins, gannets, and seals. The islands are also a popular spot for fishing and water sports, and visitors can explore the many beaches and coves that line the shores of the islands.

4. Visit Johnstown Castle Estate

Located just a few miles from the Irish National Heritage Park, Johnstown Castle Estate is a beautiful estate that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore the many gardens and lakes that surround the castle, and learn about the history of the estate and its owners. The estate is also home to several art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

5. Walk the Raven Nature Reserve

The Raven Nature Reserve is a beautiful nature reserve located just a short drive from the Irish National Heritage Park. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the reserve, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including red squirrels, badgers, and foxes. The reserve is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with several species of birds nesting in the area.

In conclusion, the Irish National Heritage Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Ireland. With so many great places to visit and things to do nearby, visitors can easily make a day or even a weekend out of their trip to the park. Whether you're interested in exploring historic towns, taking in the natural beauty of the area, or learning more about the culture and history of Ireland, there is something for everyone to enjoy near the Irish National Heritage Park.

Opening Hours

Thursday 9 am–5 pm
Friday 9 am–5 pm
Saturday 9:30 am–5 pm
Sunday 9:30 am–5 pm
Monday 9:30 am–5 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am–5 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am–5 pm

Bookmark This Place

3055 people bookmarked this place
Places nearby

You may also like

Ferrycarrig Park

Stadium

Ferrycarrig Park Stadium in the Republic of Ireland is a must-visit destination for football fans and tourists alike. With its modern facilities, beautiful location, and proximity to other tourist attractions, it is an ideal location to immerse yourself in the local sporting culture and take in the magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Easily accessible by car or public transport, Ferrycarrig Park Stadium is a perfect spot to explore the Wexford coast, Enniscorthy, or visit the famous Wexford Opera House. Don't miss out on this exciting destination!

Selskar Abbey

Historical landmark

Selskar Abbey is a must-visit historical landmark in Wexford town, Ireland. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey's beautiful Gothic-style architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the grounds for free, and guided tours are available for a deeper understanding of its rich history. Discover the fascinating religious history of Ireland by visiting Selskar Abbey.

Wexford (O Hanrahan)

Train station

Discover the charming town of Wexford and its surrounding attractions with Wexford (O'Hanrahan) Train Station as your starting point. This transportation hub provides easy access to historic landmarks, stunning natural attractions, and world-class cultural venues. Plan a multi-city trip or explore the beautiful region of Wexford with convenience and ease. Book your journey now and experience the best of Ireland with Wexford (O'Hanrahan) Train Station.

National Opera House

Theatre

Discover the beauty and cultural richness of the National Opera House Theatre in Wexford, Ireland. From its stunning modern architecture to its world-class performances, this venue is a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts. Explore its program of opera, ballet, classical music, and theater, including the renowned Wexford Festival Opera. Take a guided tour of the building or participate in a workshop to learn more about the performing arts. Plan your visit to the National Opera House Theatre today and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Wexford.

Ballast Bank

Historical landmark

Johnstown Castle

Castle

Discover the beauty and history of Johnstown Castle, located in County Wexford, Ireland. Explore the stunning gardens covering over 200 acres and marvel at the impressive Gothic and Tudor architecture of the castle. Take a guided tour and learn about the castle's rich past or enjoy family-friendly activities such as nature trails and picnicking areas. A visit to Johnstown Castle is a unique and memorable experience for anyone who appreciates history, culture, and nature.

Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens

Museum

Discover the stunning Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens in County Wexford, Republic of Ireland. Explore the magnificent neo-gothic castle, learn about the rich history in the museum, and stroll through the beautiful gardens, woodlands, and agricultural lands. A perfect destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. Don't miss out on this must-visit attraction in Ireland.

Wexford Wildfowl Reserve

Nature preserve

Discover the beauty of the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve in the North Slob, Ireland. With over 250 species of birds, fishing lakes, walking trails, and a visitor center, this nature preserve offers something for every nature enthusiast. Book your trip today and experience the stunning natural beauty of the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve.