Sunday 15th: Early departure for Fishguard for the sailing to Rosslare. Spend the three-and-ahalf-
hour crossing enjoying the excellent facilities on board your Stena Line super ferry,
and then on arrival in Ireland rejoin the coach for the short journey to your hotel in the
picturesque town of Enniscorthy on the banks of the River Slaney.
Monday 16th: Today we take a visit to a great Victorian House and Gardens in the heart of
Wexford boasting over 350 years of history. Experience real life in a Victorian Great house
through the eyes of Lady Frances and the residents of Wells House, relax in beautifully
restored formal gardens and discover hidden treasures in a verdant landscape of mature
plants and trees. We take a guided tour of this magnificent building whose storied history
encompasses Cromwell, Rebellions and the Famine with an emphasis on the everyday
lives of not just the families who lived in the estate. The tour of Wells proceeds through the
ground floor of the house, taking in the traditional visitor’s areas including the spectacular
Versailles drawing room, Lady Frances writing room, the Library and the spectacular
Robertson designed stairwell and dining room. Wells aims to be a living house tour, with no
‘do not touch’ signs and guests are encouraged to take a seat, and examine objects in the
house throughout the tour as well ask any questions they may have. Once we finish our
visit we return to Enniscorthy for free time.
Tuesday 17th: This morning head to New Ross, where we discover the unique Dunbrody
Famine Ship, an authentic full-scale reproduction of an 1840’s emigrant vessel. Here we
step back in time as a guided tour, costumed performers and themed exhibitions will depict
life on board and provide a personal sense of the sadness and excitement felt by the
famine emigrants setting sail for a new life. We continue on for free time for lunch at
Kilkenny Ireland’s most historic and compact city, with medieval heritage evident in the
city’s historical buildings and landmarks and an impressive castle which dominates the city.
We have also included an afternoon visit to Smithwick’s Experience offering a guided tour
and a tasting of Smithwick’s ale. Located in the heart of Kilkenny city, Smithwick's
Experience Kilkenny is a multi-sensory experience that immerses you in the history of
Ireland's oldest ale. Get a flavour for how our famous ale has been crafted over
generations and finish with a cool refreshing pint in the comfort of our Smithwick's
Experience Bar.
Wednesday 18th: Today’s visit starts at Waterford Crystal, Originally founded by George and
William Penrose in 1783, Waterford crystal is world-renowned for quality and beauty. The
House of Waterford Crystal allows visitors to witness the creation of crystal stemware,
giftware and masterpieces right before their very eyes. The tour of the visitor experience
and factory will take approximately 1 hour 30/40 minutes and includes a visit to all aspects
of the production of Waterford Crystal including, crystal blowing and mould making quality
inspection and finishing crystal cutting, sculpting and engraving. We spend time exploring
Waterford town before returning to the hotel.
Thursday 19th: We say farewell to our host in Enniscorthy and head north to Dublin for our
homeward ferry to Holyhead before continuing our journey home.