Wexford, Kilkenny & Waterford

This fascinating holiday of contrasts is based in the charming riverside town of Enniscorthy in leafy County Wexford: the corner stone of Ireland’s Ancient East with a landscape steeped in heritage and featuring miles of sandy beaches. We spend time in its capital, Wexford, a metropolis founded by the Vikings in 800 AD and home to a lively arts centre. We venture out to wonderful Waterford, a thousand year old city with a medieval flavour, atmospheric streets, a lively waterfront and the eponymous crystal factory. Here we include a guided tour of Waterford Treasures Museum where we enjoy a walk through history. On another day we visit the bijou, yet charming city of Kilkenny which abounds with historical treasures and is home to a truly magnificent castle. A holiday highlight is our visit to New Ross where we explore the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic reproduction of an 1840s vessel where costumed characters tell the story of the Irish famine emigrants heading to a new life in America.

Day One. We journey to Cairnryan for our ferry crossing to Ireland then continue to the Riverside Park Hotel where we check in for our five night stay.

Day Two. Ancient Waterford is our treat today. This graceful city has a medieval flavour, a lively waterfront and the famous Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre. We include a guided tour of Waterford Treasures Museum, walking in the shadow of history with real characters in period costume, bringing the museum's treasures to life.

Day Three. Kilkenny is our destination today. Perhaps step behind the imposing stone walls of Kilkenny Castle, see the soaring eaves of St Canice’s Cathedral, view the shimmering stained glass of twelfth century Black Abbey or explore Rothe House – a unique sixteenth century merchant’s townhouse.

Day Four. After a relaxing morning at leisure we head to stunning seventeenth century Wells House & Gardens. This landmark attraction has an intriguing history encompassing Cromwell, passionate rebellions and the Great Famine and is blessed with beautiful grounds.

Day Five. The county’s ancient capital of Wexford is our first destination where you’ll find a pretty marina, winding streets, grand churches and reminders of its Norman past. From here we head to New Ross where we explore the impressive Dunbrody Famine Ship – a beautiful and authentic recreation with mighty masts and billowing rigging. Here you will discover the sights, sounds and smells of a tall ship along with experiencing life as a famine emigrant through costumed characters and world class themed exhibits.

Day Six. After breakfast we head for our ferry then onwards home.

This modern, luxurious hotel with a circular stone tower enjoys an enchanting location on the banks of the River Slaney, less than a ten minute walk from Enniscorthy Castle. It boasts a sumptuous interior with a lounge where entertainment is hosted and a promenade bar with views of the river.

(where applicable)

For departures from Scotland (Glenton)

Where advertised our door to door service is available to customers living within ten miles of Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dunfermline and Hamilton. On our AIR & CRUISE holidays we offer an extended service with a radius of 35 miles from the listed points, for departures from Scottish ports and airports. Please call 08000 24 24 24 to check if you are eligable for our Door to Door service.

For departures from England (Glenton Palmer)

Our much-loved free Door to Door service is available on all Glenton Palmer Select coach tours of four days or longer and many of our AIR & CRUISE holidays. Available to customers living in the collection area. Please click here to view maps of the pick up areas. Please call 01924 895 849 to check if you are eligable for our Door to Door service.

Important information:

A home collection may still be available from outside these areas but a supplement will apply.

Where advertised this free service it may be necessary to share your vehicle with other passengers on your tour. The pick-up will be at the address of the lead name on your booking. Additional pick-ups may be requested at a supplement of £20 per person. You will be driven from your home to a coach pick-up point and, on occasion, you may have to transfer to another vehicle before boarding the coach. Unfortunately, for operational and administrative reasons, Door to Door service may not be available for bookings made within 21 days of departure.