County Wexford
Nestled in the south-east of Ireland, Wexford not only has a fantastic coastline with plenty of attractions, but is also a county rich in history. Drawn by its handy proximity to the River Slaney, the Vikings arrived in Wexford Town some time around 850. The Norman's later captured the town and traces of their fort can still be seen in the National Heritage Park. The town was settled by the Normans in the twelfth century and becoming an English garrison town, was taken by Cromwell in 1649. During the 1798 Insurrection, the town saw brave rebel fighting against the English Crown, whose greatest concern was that the port might be used as a landing place by the French.
Today, Wexford is home to one of Ireland's biggest cultural events: the Wexford Opera Festival - a fun-filled extravaganza held every October. Ireland's premier opera event, houses are consistently full throughout the festival, with theatres hosting a selection rarely performed operas. For the duration of the festival, the town hosts a colourful programme of street theatre, poetry readings and exhibitions.
Kilmore Quay is a small fishing village on the eastern side of Ballyteige Bay. Famed for its quaint thatched cottages and maritime connection, the village hosts a Seafood Festival in the second week of every July, with a selection of sea-food tastings, music and dancing. The small local harbour has a well-equipped marina and is home to Ireland's only floating maritime museum. The quay is also the port of departure for trips around the nearby Saltee Isles.
Enniscorthy is another popular stop-off in the area. An old Norman settlement, the town is situated on the banks of the River Slaney and has a well developed crafts industry. The town also plays host to the famous Strawberry Fair held every June/July.
