Things To Do
in New Ross
New Ross is a historic town located in County Wexford, Ireland, situated along the banks of the River Barrow. It has a rich maritime heritage, evident in its vibrant port and the famous Dunbrody Famine Ship, which symbolizes the Irish emigration during the Great Famine. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the 19th-century New Ross Bridge and the impressive St. Mary's Church.
With a blend of history, culture, and beautiful scenery, New Ross serves as a gateway to exploring the surrounding countryside and coastal areas.
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "SlĂĄn" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atĂĄ tĂș?" - How are you?
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $25
- â Coffee: $3 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the JFK Arboretum, enjoying the scenic views and tranquility of the beautifully landscaped gardens. Take a leisurely stroll to connect with nature and perhaps have a picnic breakfast.
Head to the John F. Kennedy Museum to learn about the fascinating history of JFK and his family's connection to Ireland. Afterward, explore the local shops and cafes for lunch, and sample some Irish specialties.
Wrap up your day with a visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship, where you can take an informative tour about the Irish emigration. Conclude your evening with a cozy dinner at a local pub, enjoying traditional music and a warm atmosphere.
Begin with a morning visit to the New Ross Castle, soaking up the rich history and stunning architecture. The peaceful surroundings make for a perfect backdrop for some photos.
Explore the exciting exhibits at the Ros Tapestry, showcasing the history of the area through beautiful needlework. Have lunch in a nearby café, savoring the local delicacies.
Visit the local theater if there's a performance, or enjoy a walk along the River Barrow as the sun sets. Find a warm restaurant for dinner and relax after an action-packed day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including the famous New Ross Workhouse and the JFK Memorial Park.
- Beautiful scenic views along the River Barrow and surrounding countryside.
- A strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Access to various local festivals and cultural events throughout the year.
- Good transport links to larger cities like Waterford and Wexford.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Somewhat reliant on agricultural and tourism sectors, which can be cyclical.
- Public transport options may not be as frequent or direct compared to larger urban areas.
- Possibility of fewer educational and recreational facilities than in bigger towns or cities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with a lot of rain typical of the region.
Best Activities in New Ross
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic River Barrow with guided kayaking tours or rent a kayak and paddle at your own pace. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and observe local wildlife.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Barrow Way, a picturesque trail that follows the river, offering stunning views and historical sites along the route.
Enjoy a day out in the family-friendly Kennedy Park, featuring beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Ideal for families to relax and unwind.
Spend a day fishing in the River Barrow, known for its excellent salmon and trout fishing. Various spots are accessible for both seasoned anglers and beginners.
Take a short trip to the nearby Blackstairs Mountains for hiking adventures with trails suitable for all levels, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship to learn about the Irish Emigration story through outdoor guided tours and exhibitions. Experience the history firsthand in an outdoor setting.
Enjoy a round of golf at the New Ross Golf Club, which boasts beautiful views and well-maintained greens, perfect for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Ross with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Ross
Visit one of these nice places.
A replica of the original Dunbrody ship, it offers stunning views of the waterfront and the river, making it a perfect backdrop for photography.
A scenic walking path along the River Barrow, providing picturesque views of the river, surrounding countryside, and the historic town.
This iconic bridge offers great vantage points for photographs, especially at sunset, with views of the river and the town.
The historic architecture and panoramic views from the church's grounds provide numerous photo opportunities, especially of the surrounding area.
This expansive park features beautiful landscapes, gardens, and the River Barrow, perfect for capturing nature and leisure in photos.
Offering majestic views across the river, this historic site is ideal for history buffs and photographers alike.
The quayside area is vibrant with boats and bustling life, providing a lively backdrop for capturing the essence of New Ross.
Featuring charming streets and historic buildings, the town center offers numerous opportunities for street photography and capturing local life.
Food in New Ross
New Ross Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dish made with tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, simmered to perfection. Not to be missed!
Must-Try!
A creamy, comforting chowder packed with fresh fish and shellfish, best enjoyed with homemade brown bread.
A traditional Dublin dish featuring sausages and bacon simmered with potatoes and onions, offering a hearty flavor.
An Irish potato pancake, typically served with various fillings or as a side, representing the creativity of Irish cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Ross better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held weekly, this market showcases local produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade bread, and gourmet street food vendors, offering a taste of Wexford's agricultural bounty.
An annual event featuring a lineup of food trucks and stalls serving a variety of cuisines, from Asian fusion to traditional Irish fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting locals, a firm handshake and making eye contact is common. It's polite to greet with 'hello' or 'hi', and many enjoy chatting about the weather or local news.
Being on time is appreciated in New Ross, especially for business meetings or social events. However, a slight delay is often excused in casual settings, but it's best to communicate if you're running late.
If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift such as wine or flowers. During meals, wait for the host to start before eating, and please remember to thank them for the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Ross with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Ross
Ensure a smooth experience
In New Ross, Ireland, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill if the service is good. However, some establishments may include a service charge in the bill. Tipping is less common in casual dining or pubs, although patrons often round up the bill or leave small change. In bars, it is usual to buy a round of drinks for friends or leave a euro or two as a tip when paying for drinks.
Most businesses in New Ross accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Contactless payments are widely used and accepted at many establishments. In some smaller shops or markets, cash may still be preferred. Itâs advisable to have some cash on hand for small purchases or in case a merchant does not accept cards. Additionally, many places now provide the option to pay via mobile payment apps.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Ross.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in New Ross (March to May) sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities. Expect occasional rain but also longer days with more sunshine, perfect for exploring the scenic countryside and local attractions.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest season in New Ross, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). This is the peak tourist season, renowned for festivals, outdoor events, and vibrant local life. Expect plenty of sunshine alongside occasional showers.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and a stunning change in foliage color. It's a quieter time to visit, ideal for enjoying the natural beauty and local culture. Expect crisp air, occasional rain, and the harvest season's charm.
Winter (December to February) in New Ross can be cold and damp, with temperatures averaging around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). While tourist traffic slows, this season offers a cozy atmosphere to enjoy local pubs and cultural experiences, along with festive decorations during the holiday season.
New Ross at Night
Hiking in New Ross
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop trail that offers stunning views of the Blackstairs Mountains and the surrounding countryside, suitable for hikers of all levels.
A popular hiking destination providing various trails with panoramic views of County Wexford and easy access from New Ross.
Features several trails that cater to different skill levels, with breathtaking views from the summit and diverse terrain options.
Offers a combination of historical and natural beauty, with well-marked paths that weave through woodlands and gardens.
A flat, accessible trail that runs alongside the Slaney River, ideal for walkers and casual hikers, with beautiful riverside scenery.
Aiports
How to reach New Ross by plane.
Cork Airport is the second largest airport in Ireland and serves as a hub for international flights from the southern region of the country.
Shannon Airport is located in County Clare and offers a range of international flights, making it an important gateway for the western part of Ireland.
Dublin Airport is the largest airport in Ireland, serving numerous international destinations and acting as a major hub for both domestic and international travel.
Waterford Airport is a small regional airport that serves mainly domestic flights, but it is relatively close to New Ross.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in New Ross, consisting of individuals who identify as ethnically Irish and are part of the majority population.
Includes individuals from other European countries and groups who identify as white but are not Irish, such as British, Polish, or other nationalities.
A smaller percentage of the population, including individuals of Asian descent, such as Chinese, Indian, and other Asian nationalities.
Includes individuals of African descent, contributing to the multicultural fabric of New Ross.
Individuals who identify as belonging to more than one ethnic group, representing a diverse background.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Ireland that combines elements of soccer and rugby, played with a round ball and featuring two teams of 15 players each.
An ancient Gaelic sport that involves hitting a small ball with a wooden stick called a hurley, played on a grass pitch with two teams of 15 players.
A team sport played with an oval ball by two teams of 15 players each, popular in Ireland and featuring both union and league formats.
Football as it is known in most of the world, played by two teams of 11 players each, with a focus on scoring goals by getting a ball into the opponent's net.
A collection of sports that involve competitive running, jumping, throwing, and walking, with various events held throughout the year.
A sport that involves riding bicycles, either competitively or recreationally, enjoyed by many in New Ross for both leisure and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Ross.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafés and restaurants in New Ross provide vegetarian dishes, such as salads, vegetable curries, and hearty soups.
Vegan options are increasingly available, particularly in health-conscious eateries like The Olive Tree and at local markets.
A number of restaurants offer gluten-free dishes and can accommodate dietary needs upon request, including gluten-free breads and other baked goods.