Things To Do
in Enniscorthy
Enniscorthy is a historic town perched along the River Slaney in County Wexford, Ireland, where medieval heritage meets riverside charm. The town grew around a Norman fortress and a vibrant market, and its narrow streets are lined with colorful shops, pubs, and cafes. Visitors can explore Enniscorthy Castle, stroll along the river, and visit nearby Tintern Abbey for a glimpse into Ireland’s layered history.
With easy access to Wexford’s coastline and the Blackstairs Mountains, Enniscorthy makes a compact base for culture, history, and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a stroll through the charming Georgian streets of Enniscorthy, admiring colorful storefronts and historic architecture. Pop into local cafés for a hearty Irish breakfast of soda bread, eggs, and Black ’n’ White pudding. Chat with friendly shopkeepers to learn about the town’s proud traditions and community spirit.
Head to Enniscorthy Castle for an immersive look at medieval life, with interactive displays and panoramic views from the battlements. Wander the adjacent Butter Market square and sample artisan cheeses, jams, and craft beers at a bustling outdoor market. Take time to meander along the River Slaney, watching kayakers navigate gentle rapids.
Dine at a riverside bistro serving fresh local produce, from Wexford mussels to lamb stew. Catch a performance at the Wexford Opera House or enjoy live traditional Irish music in a cozy pub. End the night with a leisurely riverside walk under stars reflected in the water.
Drive or cycle up Vinegar Hill to survey the battlefield of the 1798 Rebellion and soak in sweeping views over Enniscorthy. Listen to a narrated tour explaining the pivotal events that shaped Irish history. Wander through memorials and learn about the local heroes who fought for freedom.
Descend to the nearby Tomnafinnoge Woods for a forest walk on shaded trails, discovering hidden ruins and birdlife. Pack a picnic of artisan bread, local cheeses, and freshly picked apples to enjoy beside a woodland stream. Visit the Battle of Vinegar Hill visitor center to view artifacts and interactive maps.
Return to Enniscorthy for dinner at a family-run pub, sampling hearty Irish stew and freshly baked soda farls. Join a ghost tour through dimly lit streets to hear eerie legends of fallen rebels. Conclude the night with a pint of craft stout by a roaring peat fire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch at cafe | $9-15 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $6-12 |
| 🍷Pint of beer at pub | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic town with riverside beauty
- Compact size makes it easy to explore on foot
- Good access to coast, forests, and the Blackstairs
- Warm local hospitality and traditional music scene
- Nightlife is modest compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds can affect availability of some services
- Public transport options outside town center can be limited
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Sláinte" - Cheers
- "An bhfuil Gaeilge agat?" - Do you speak Irish?
Places to Visit in Enniscorthy
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic castle grounds with graceful lawns, mature trees, and a reflective vibe ideal for portrait and landscape shots.
Scenic hilltop with expansive views over the River Slaney valley and surrounding countryside, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Riverside paths and bridges offering photographic opportunities of water, wildlife, and gentle town life.
Medieval ruins set in a tranquil river setting, perfect for atmospheric wide shots and moody lighting.
Vibrant storefronts and market life provide candid street photography opportunities.
Food in Enniscorthy
Enniscorthy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mutton or beef stew with potatoes and root vegetables, a comforting staple in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Creamy soup featuring fresh local fish and shellfish, often served with crusty bread.
Tender smoked salmon served on thick slices of Irish brown bread, a popular seaside-influenced option.
Rich beef stew encased in a flaky pastry, a classic Irish comfort dish.
Traditional potato dishes mashed with cabbage or scallions, a staple alongside many meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering seasonal produce, bread, pastries, and artisan goods on market days, with a friendly village vibe.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Irish people are generally friendly and welcoming; a polite greeting and a smile go a long way. First names are commonly used in casual settings.
Queue for service, avoid interrupting staff, and be mindful of space in busy pubs. Traditional music sessions are common and enjoyable to join with a polite, respectful attitude.
Being on time for events is appreciated, though casual social meetups may be flexible.
Safety
Tipping in Enniscorthy
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, but not mandatory. If a service charge isn’t included, 5-10% is common in restaurants; pubs often rely on tipping for live music tips or after meals.
Cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still commonly used in smaller venues. ATMs are readily available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days, blooming trees, and lighter crowds. Great for riverside walks and photography of fresh greenery.
Warmest period with longer daylight hours, occasional showers. Ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and riverside dining.
Colorful foliage and crisp air, shorter days. Excellent for scenic drives, hill walks, and moody photography.
Cool and often damp, with the possibility of frost and occasional sleet. Great for cozy pubs, fireside meals, and quiet, atmospheric scenes.
Enniscorthy at Night
Hiking in Enniscorthy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside route that combines historic ruins with tranquil water views.
Multiple trails in the Blackstairs range offering moderate to challenging climbs and panoramic views.
A short, rewarding ascent near Enniscorthy with sweeping valley views.
Airports
How to reach Enniscorthy by plane.
Major international hub about 120-140 km north with extensive domestic and international connections; accessible by road or rail via Dublin.
Regional airport about 80-90 km southeast, offering domestic flights and some seasonal international connections.
Major regional gateway about 160-180 km southwest, with a range of European routes and some transatlantic links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Enniscorthy, with good schools and community activities.
A number of students utilize local schools and nearby towns for study and recreation.
A noticeable population segment that values slow-paced exploration and local culture.
Visitors drawn to history, riverside scenery, and nearby Tintern Abbey.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
GAA is widely played and followed in the region, with local clubs and matches drawing community support.
Local clubs and school teams provide regular fixtures and social play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Enniscorthy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer veggie soups, salads, and vegetable-forward mains; look for vegetable stews, mushroom dishes, and goat cheese additions. When in doubt, ask for the chef's recommendations or a customized dish.