Ireland's Ancient East

Ireland’s Ancient East

Co Wexford is often referred to as the cornerstone of Ireland’s Ancient East!  Here in Gorey and North Wexford we are delighted to add to the mix of stories and experiences as part of this offering!

This year relive your memories of Wexford and create more on a trip to one of our many attractions where our history lives on, enjoy fun activities and the finest local produce served in creative dishes with the friendliest of staff! 

Listen to our stories and get to know our soul! North Wexford – and Ireland’s Ancient East – pulsates with stories. Come and get to know us – we live it, you’ll love it!

ÁR MBRÉACHA HOUSE OF STORYTELLING

Storytelling has enjoyed a renaissance in County Wexford. 

Ár mBréacha House of Storytelling, Raheen, Ballyduff, Camolin runs on the first Tuesday of each month.

You are invited to tell your story, sing your song, and listen to the stories, songs and experiences of other guests.

No admission. All welcome

BYGONE DAYS STORYTELLING HOUSE

This original thatched house of well over 200 years in Oulart, with a big welcoming open fire and no electricity hosts story-telling sessions on the second Monday of every month, 8pm-11pm.

It has stood more or less in its present form since the 1798 Rebellion and was lived in up until 1992. It was restored in 1995 – 1996 to its original form.

Local man John Dempsey is the resourceful Fear a’ ‘Tí  for story telling events.

FERNS

Home to a number of national monuments, Ferns’ most iconic attraction is the magnificent Ferns Castle. Today, about half the castle still stands, originally it was square shaped with a drum tower at each angle. This Norman castle dates back to the 13th century and you can still see evidence of its origins, with its chapel considered to be one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The 360 degree view from the top of the Castle is astounding. The latest visitor experience addition to the village is the Medieval Ferns Experience

GREENS BERRY FARM

Mention Wexford and one of the first words that comes to mind is strawberry. John Greene is an accomplished grower of seasonal soft fruit. At Greens Berry Farm in Tinnock, Gorey, Co Wexford (just off junction 22 for Gorey on the M11), John is putting into practice his childhood upbringing on the strawberry farm his father owned. He has twenty years’ experience growing a variety of summer berries for the retail soft fruit market and his own two outlets (one of them located here at the entrance to the farm).

MARLFIELD HOUSE

Marlfield House is a Regency period house steeped in history which opened its doors to guests in 1978. 

Originally the dower house of the Courtown Estate, Marlfield House later became the principal residence of the Earls of Courtown.  It was built in 1820 making it a Regency style house. 

Owning two mansions was not uncommon for wealthy families in the Ireland of those days. Aristocratic families hosted parties regularly, entertaining other landed gentry from all over the British Isles.

THE BOOK CAFÉ

The Book Cafe and Bistro Gorey is a Wexford institution loved by locals and visitors alike. Situated in the heart of Gorey’s main street, this is a cafe with a difference, with shelves upon shelves of fantastic old and new books, that you can take to sit and read and enjoy over a homemade tasty, breakfast lunch or snack.

This charming cafe is run by Ann and Ben who are loved for their warm and friendly welcome, their dedicated team of helpful staff and their freshly prepared food.

UPTON COURT HOTEL, KILMUCKRIDGE

Every Tuesday night, Upton Court hosts a ‘ Traditional Irish Night’. A group of local musicians get together to play Irish music, dance in the Irish set dancing style and tell stories of times gone by. 

WELLS HOUSE

Wells House was first built in the 1600s and has seen many changes in its 400 year history.

As part of Ireland’s Ancient East, it has lived through wars, acted as a barracks, been home to generations of the same family and has invited in guests from all walks of life throughout Ireland and further afield. You only need to step inside the house to feel its rich history and as the house and gardens are being restored to their original design by renowned architect Daniel Robertson – it really does feel like a step back in time.

Looking for a better work life balance - Gorey offers you an opportunity like no other

You won’t want to leave! We live it, and you’ll love it!