#explorewexford

Welcome back to Ireland’s Hidden Gems. We’re going to have a look at Wexford, and what secret spots the Sunny South East county has to offer off the tourist track. 

With an abundance of beaches and guarantee of more sun than most places, it is no wonder why Wexford has shown to be achieving twice the national average in growth of tourism numbers. Popular tourist attractions include Curracloe Beach, Wexford Town and the Irish National Heritage Park. But Wexford has more to offer that are nestled into small towns and along country roads. So here's the top 5 hidden gems that Wexford has to offer! 

(Website links have been added so you can look at the information and check out opening times!) 

No. 1 - Hook Lighthouse 

Voted the best hidden gem of Ireland by Lonely Planet, Hook Lighthouse is an attraction for all ages. Bring a picnic along and have it on the green area while the children play, or indulge in the Hook cafe that serves food and drinks alongside the visitor centre. They do guided tours every day for both inside and outside the lighthouse. Take in the spectacular view from the lighthouse balcony with miles of sea rolling out before you. It’s the perfect backdrop for a picture. It’s the perfect family day out - even the teenagers will love it! Spot seals and dolphins along the rocky coast. The lucky few might even spot a fin whale or a humpback in their annual visit to Hook. Hook Lighthouse hosts many events throughout the year such as haunted tours at Halloween and even Valentine’s Day. 

Website link: https://hookheritage.ie/

No. 2 - The Lavender Farms 

This gem is a great day out for all the family. With a large outdoor play areas consisting of giant snakes and ladders and a woodland forest for the kids, it’s a must for active and curious families. It’s only opened Saturday and Sunday, and is very popular amongst locals. Their Artist’s Attic is where you can purchase local crafts and the Woodland Walks are for explorers of all ages with three different walks. Their cafe is filled with yummy treats to feed the whole family.

Website link: https://wexfordlavenderfarm.com/

No. 3 - Yew Hedge Maze, Dunbrody 

Nestled behind Dunbrody Castle and Dunbrody Visitor Centre, this exciting maze is a must see for any curious person. It is one of only two full size mazes in Ireland and is made up of 1500 yew trees. This is open to the public to solve and explore, and even boasts a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course around it. Race your friends and family or team up and do it together, but either way, this is not to be missed when visiting Wexford.

Website link: http://www.dunbrodyabbey.com/

No. 4 - Loftus Hall 

A short distance from Hook Lighthouse lies one of the most haunted houses in Ireland. The guides run daily tours telling tales of hauntings that happened and in some cases, ask a special audience member to step in and play some of the haunted characters! People claim to feel odd sensations and random touches throughout the tours. They do lock-in tours also. If you're too scared to face the inside of the house, there is a cafe filled with a tasty menu and a beautiful walled garden to explore. 

Website link: https://www.loftushall.ie/

No. 5 - Ballycross Apple Farm 

Known to the locals as a great day out for the family, this farm let’s the young discover all sorts of animals from goats to llamas. The farm itself is home to the large apple orchid and makes their very own, and very famous, apple juice. At Halloween, they open up for pumpkin picking and at Christmas, Santa pays a very special visit to the little ones! They also have pedal go-karting, bouncy castle, tractor runs and special animal feeding. But be warned - wellies are essential!! For the adults, the cafe has an amazing selection of waffles and crepes, with a must try hot chocolate! 

Hook Lighthouse - A Wexford Treasure