Things To Do
in New Ross
New Ross, in County Wexford, sits along the River Barrow and blends maritime history with a charming market-town atmosphere. The Dunbrody Famine Ship and Ros Tapestry Centre anchor a walkable riverside core filled with pubs, cafes, and shops. Fresh seafood from nearby Kilmore Quay and scenic coastal day trips to Hook Peninsula add a coastal dimension to the town experience.
With friendly locals and a relaxed pace, New Ross offers a quintessential Irish town escape with plenty of photography and storytelling opportunities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the heart of New Ross by visiting the Ros Tapestry Exhibition Centre, where you can marvel at the stunning tapestries that depict the town's rich history. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the Quayside, soaking in the fresh air and the beautiful views of the River Barrow. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Irish breakfast to fuel your day!
In the afternoon, head to the Kennedy Homestead, the ancestral home of President John F. Kennedy's family. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the fascinating life of the Kennedy clan in Ireland. Spend some time discovering the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs and authentic Irish crafts.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of New Ross's charming restaurants, where fresh local produce takes center stage. Explore the vibrant nightlife by visiting a traditional pub to listen to live music while mingling with locals. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the river, soaking in the last moments of the day.
Start your morning by visiting the John F. Kennedy Arboretum, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by an array of trees from around the world. The stunning views from the top of this hill are a perfect backdrop for some memorable photographs. After your nature walk, visit a nearby bakery to savor fresh scones and a cup of Irish tea.
Spend your afternoon exploring the local culture at the Roscommon Castle, where you can learn about the town's past and its strategic importance. The guided tour features stories from history that will captivate your imagination. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a café nearby, trying some local specialties.
For an immersive cultural experience, attend a local theatre production or folk dance performance in town. The energy and creativity of the performers will make for a memorable night. Wrap up your evening with a casual stroll back to your accommodation, reflecting on the stories and experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer at pub | $6-9 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $10-20 |
| 🛒Basic groceries | $30-60 per week |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic heritage sites (Dunbrody, Ros Tapestry) within a compact, walkable town
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace with easy access to coast and countryside
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Seasonal tourism can affect availability of some services and prices
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Sláinte" - Cheers/Good health
- "Cá bhfuil an leithreas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cabhair le do thoil" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in New Ross
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic ship with the River Barrow as a scenic backdrop – great for harbor and maritime shots.
Colorful tapestry displays and lively market life offering vibrant street photography opportunities.
Riverside views and reflections; ideal at sunrise or sunset.
Medieval abbey ruins perched above the river valley, offering dramatic architecture and landscape photography.
Food in New Ross
New Ross Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder with locally landed haddock, mussels, and prawns, often served with brown bread.
Must-Try!
Fresh lobster prepared simply with garlic butter or served as a seafood platter.
A hearty, well-seasoned stew using local beef and dark stout, ideal for cooler days.
Seasonal seafood selections from the coast served with traditional Irish soda bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh seafood, dairy, cheese, baked goods, and seasonal produce.
Seasonal stalls along the riverfront offering fish sandwiches and simple Irish snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; a warm greeting in Irish is appreciated.
Small talk about weather, football, and local news is common; avoid overly assertive topics in first meetings.
Pubs are friendly social spaces; tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service.
Safety
Tipping in New Ross
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ireland, 10–15% is typical in restaurants if service is not included; pubs rarely expect tips beyond small change.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild temperatures (roughly 15–21°C), occasional showers; ideal for outdoor exploring and harbour walks.
Crisp air and vibrant hedgerows; rain is common but colors are spectacular for photography.
Cool and damp with shorter days; cosy pubs and hearty meals provide comfort.
Mild days with fresh greenery and spring blooms; showers interspersed with sunny spells.
New Ross at Night
Hiking in New Ross
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside walk with historic ruins and expansive views.
Coastal cliff walks and lighthouse views a short drive away.
Rural forest and farmland trails offering diverse scenery.
Airports
How to reach New Ross by plane.
Small regional airport about an hour away with domestic flights; rental cars available.
Major international hub about 2–3 hours by road/train from New Ross; frequent international and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small town with a mix of families, long-time residents, and commuters; growing number of visitors influences the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local sport with clubs and matches throughout the year.
Common team sports with active community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Ross.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Note: Many venues offer veggie stews, salads, pasta, and veggie mains; ask about local cheeses and bread.
Many venues can accommodate gluten-free needs; ask about cross-contamination and request gluten-free bread or salads.