Waterford

Factory & workshop tours

Step back in time and explore Irish history from the Viking to the Victorian era on this family-friendly walking tour of the Viking Triangle in Waterford. Follow your guide through this ancient Irish city and learn about the treasures of Waterford. See parts of the medieval urban defense system like Reginald’s Tower. Discover the 13th-century Greyfriars Friary, the 13th-century Choristers Hall and the 15th-century Mayor's Wine Vault. View where the Anglican bishops of Waterford used to reside at the Bishop’s Palace. Gain insight into Ireland’s colorful past and learn of the invasions, battles, and victories which shaped the country today. Admire archaeological treasures from centuries passed. Listen to stories told in an engaging way, making them popular choice with kids. Trace Ireland’s architecture through the generations on a tour that is offered multiple times throughout the day.

Visit the Medieval Museum in Waterford, Ireland’s only purpose-built medieval museum and the only building on the island to incorporate two ancient undercrofts. Step back into medieval Waterford as you begin your tour in the undercrofts. Continue to the 13th-century Choristers Hall and 15th-century wine vault. Be wowed by some of the greatest treasures of medieval Ireland, including the Great Charter Roll viewed by HM King Charles III and the Queen Consort and the 15th-century cloth-of-gold church vestments. Guided tours of the Medieval Museum are included with your ticket subject to availability.

Join our terroir tour, a unique opportunity to explore the creation of our terroir-driven, barley-forward, natural whisky. At Waterford Distillery, situated along the River Suir, you’ll be guided through each step of transforming purely Irish-grown barley into Waterford Whisky. Your journey begins at the Facilitator, a modern marvel of distillation. With complete transparency, we’ll answer all your questions. You’ll discover the origins of our whisky in the Map of Provenance, showcasing over 100 unique flavor sources from various Irish farms. Learn about the wonders of organic, biodynamic, and heritage barley. Witness our exclusive technological trinity, a unique setup in the distilling world, converting malted barley into the purest, sweetest wort. Understand the importance of cool and extended malolactic fermentations in unlocking flavors, and observe our meticulous low-and-slow distillation process as it flows through the spirit safe. As a special treat, if you’re well-behaved, we might offer a tasting of some of Head Distiller Ned’s finest creations. After your tour, enjoy a 10% discount in our distillery shop. This experience is designed for the curious, providing a comprehensive insight into the art and science behind Waterford Whisky.

Embark on a 6-day tour from Dublin and discover Glendalough, Kilkenny, Waterford, Blarney Castle, Dingle Peninsula, Cork, Slea Head, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, the Cliffs of Moher, Galway, and Connemara. Day 1: Dublin - Glendalough - Kilkenny Castle - Waterford City Begin the tour in central Dublin. Leave the capital behind and drive through rolling countryside to the Wicklow Mountains. Your first stop is the monastery ruins at Glendalough, the Valley of Two Lakes. Admire the natural beauty and enjoy the local walks and trails with views of ancient Celtic crosses and round towers. Afterward, continue to the medieval city of Kilkenny with its cobbled streets and famous red ale. Not far from Waterford Harbor on the southeast coast, Dunmore East is a relaxing spot to spend the evening with a handful of pubs and some great seafood restaurants. Day 2: Waterford City - Waterford Crystal - Blarney Castle - Dingle Peninsula Your day begins with a visit to the world-famous Waterford Crystal factory. Stock up on fine-cut glass at the outlet store or simply pause a while to watch the artisans at work. Continue with a scenic drive through County Waterford and a panoramic drive through Cork city. The highlight for many today is the world-renowned Blarney Castle. After lunch, continue on your journey to the Dingle Peninsula, where you will stay overnight at one of the westernmost points of Ireland. Day 3: Dingle Peninsula - Slea Head - Killarney Take the short drive to Dingle, a charming Irish-speaking fishing village. Famed in many films like Far and Away and Ryan's Daughter, Dingle is celebrated for having the most pubs in Ireland for a town of its size, 52 pubs and 2000 people. Then it's off on a wonderful pleasant trip around Slea Head with amazing views of Sleeping Giant Island, the Blasket Islands, and Beehive Huts. Day 4: Killarney - Ring of Kerry - Killarney Discover the amazing scenery of the Ring of Kerry. Begin with a horse and cart ride through Killarney National Park (optional) or a horseback ride through the park for the energetic and adventurous (optional). Your afternoon is packed with many highlights including Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Leprechaun Crossing, Killarney National Park, Lakes of Killarney, Torc Waterfall, and much more. Day 5: Killarney - Cliffs of Moher - Galway Visit the town of Killarney and Bunratty Castle in the morning. Then in the afternoon, continue north along the Wild Atlantic Way. Stop at the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the village of Doolin. Stay overnight in Galway, known as the city of the tribes and Ireland's cultural capital, with a vast array of fine seafood eateries, and home to an endless selection of traditional Irish music venues. Day 6: Galway - Connemara - Dublin Discover the rugged beauty of the Connemara region, located west of Galway city. Have time to visit Cong Abbey before heading off on your journey through the midlands back to Dublin.

Pick-up Location & Time Pick-Up Time: 8am Tour Departs From: Nassau Street, Dublin 2 (Opposite “The Kilkenny” store) Meet your Driver Guide and Travel through Ireland's majestic countryside on our Small Group Tour to Ireland's oldest city, while hearing all about the history and culture of Ireland. Arrive at The House Of Waterford Crystal where In front of your eyes, you will see red-hot molten crystal take shape, in a miracle of light, heat, and skill. The craftsmen are meticulous, and you can watch as they transform glowing balls of molten crystal into elegant shapes with skills that have made two hundred years of perfection visible in every piece. Afterward enjoy a light lunch in a Waterford café or shop the collection before departing for Kilkenny the Medieval Capital of Ireland See all Kilkenny has to offer on our private walking tour. From the 13th-century castle, historic laneways, medieval townhouses, and Ireland’s oldest brewery Smithwick’s. Great cafes, bars, and Kilkenny’s famous bar, Kytelers Inn, where Ireland’s only Witch Burning took place in 1324. Kilkenny Castle stands dramatically on a strategic height that commands a crossing on the River Nore and dominates the ‘High Town’ of Kilkenny City. Over the eight centuries of its existence, many additions and alterations have been made to the fabric of the building, making Kilkenny Castle today a complex structure of various architectural styles. Say goodbye to Kilkenny as your board your bus at 4pm for your trip back to Dublin for a 6pm drop off.

Day 1: Depart Dublin for Cork, driving through the lush farm counties of Kildare, Laois, and Tipperary. Make a short stop in the heritage town of Cahir to see the ruined abbey and impressive castle on an island in the River Suir. Continue to Blarney on the outskirts of Cork. Visit the castle and take one of the woodland walks to the mystical Rock Close. Explore the village of Blarney, stopping for lunch.  There may even be time to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. After this, there is a chance to discover Jameson Whiskey Distillery and taste one of Ireland's favourite exports. In the afternoon, tour the beautiful coastline of West Cork, and see some of the magnificent beaches, tiny inlets and coves. End the day in the fishing village of Kinsale, where you will be based for the night. Kinsale is famous for its food, and the evening is free to wander the narrow streets, popping into traditional pubs and restaurants. Day 2: Explore some of the highlights of southeast Ireland, starting with the historic port of Cobh, the main departure point for Irish emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. It was also from here that the Titanic ocean liner set forth on her ill-fated maiden voyage. Continue east to Waterford, traveling along the “Copper Coast” (a designated UNESCO geo-park for its spectacular beauty). Stop at the popular surfing beach of Tramore, before heading into Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city. Founded by the Vikings in the 9th century, it’s also famous for the Waterford Crystal Factory, which you are free to visit along with one of the excellent museums. Alternatively, explore the Viking Triangle on foot. In the late afternoon, depart for the busy city of Kilkenny with its fine castle and park, as well as some lovely riverside walks. Go to the National Craft Centre, or hang out in one of the pubs and enjoy a glass of Guinness! Day 3: Enjoy a free morning to explore Kilkenny before driving to the Wicklow Mountains. Marvel at some of Ireland’s highest granite peaks and see impressive valleys carved by glaciers. One of the area’s highlights is Glendalough, known as the “Valley of the Lakes.” Take one of the walking trails, or explore the ruins of the 6th-century monastery to see its round tower. The last section of your tour takes you into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, before crossing the famous Sally Gap to descend into Dublin for an approximate 18:30 arrival.

Discover the idyllic town of Kilmacthomas in County Waterford, Ireland, and its surrounding areas through an exceptional guided walking tour. Immerse yourself in the town's captivating history, splendid scenery, and genuine Irish culture and hospitality. Experience the diverse facets that make Kilmacthomas an idyllic location for a guided walking tour, engaging all your senses. Engage with a knowledgeable local storyteller who will share fascinating tales and introduce you to intriguing characters associated with the Kilmacthomas area. Witness the awe-inspiring architectural structures and natural beauty spots that adorn the landscape. Additionally, indulge in three locations for moments of mindfulness, providing an opportunity to pause, breathe, and fully appreciate your surroundings that come alive in front of your eyes. Prepare for an unforgettable journey where every stone has a remarkable story to tell. These are true stories from the heart. Time travelling tour that will bring you to ten points of intrigue in the heart of the stunning Waterford greenway and rural village that will open all the senses within a looped five kilometre route. I'll be in my obvious yellow hi vis jacket at the large Waterford Greenway signage at the greenway entrance near the red gates in the Car Park next to the Kilmacthomas Workhouse and Coachhouse (next to Eircode X42VF38) about 2 minutes drive outside Kilmacthomas village. Please arrive 15mins before your tour time so ticket validations can be made and the walk will start at the exact time shown. Late arrivals to guided walking tour will not be accepted. The tour is timed for 2 hours length, but because we can only walk at the pace of our slowest walker (in the group of 15) then please take this into consideration on the day of your tour.

ClueBreak is an outdoor activity in English, that takes place centrally in the city and cities around the world. Through the CLUEBREAK app, you will watch testimonies in videos with real actors to gain information about the case. Before each witness, you first have to answer a riddle, or question, to collect points. This way you get a nice walk through the city and get to do something fun by solving a murder mystery. We estimate that it takes at least 2h to complete the assignment. In Waterford, the game starts in William Vincent Wallace Plaza, and ends in Ballybricken Green. When booking, you will receive an email with instructions about the case, witness list and unique login code to access the game. Download the ClueBreak app where apps are available, enter the code and start the game. In the app you will find a map with marked places and witnesses. Visit the locations to get their testimonials and collect information that makes you eliminate suspects and weapons. Your mission is to find out who the guilty one is and which murder weapon that was used. THE CASE The game takes place in a fictional small town called Glenndale. A man and a woman named Carl Brown and Jennifer Wallin has been found dead in their own homes. Someone had called in noise from Carl Brown’s house, but no one had seen anything. When the police arrived, they found Carl laying dead on the living room floor, brutally beaten to death. Why did someone want to kill Carl? Who had the motive and opportunity? ** Good to know** When booking, you will receive all information via email a couple of days in advance, so check your inbox carefully.

Day One Your first stop is the Rock of Dunamase, a Celtic fort with tales of early Christian settlements and Viking invasions in 842. Enjoy free time to explore this historical marvel. Head south to Cashel, where the iconic Rock of Cashel perches dramatically on limestone, showcasing medieval grandeur. Explore colossal structures and the hauntingly beautiful Hore Abbey, remnants of Ireland's last medieval Cistercian monastery. Continue to Blarney Castle for woodland walks and a chance to kiss the iconic Blarney Stone. As the afternoon sun bathes the southern Cork coastline, Kinsale, a charming fishing village, welcomes you. Immerse yourself in its narrow lanes, colorful houses, and lively pubs during a leisurely evening. Day Two Start the day with a photo stop at the invigorating Old Head of Kinsale. Explore Ireland's ancient mysteries at the Drombeg Stone Circle, the Druid's Altar, and a Stone Age megalithic tomb. Each site bears witness to Ireland's ancient mysteries and sacred history. Head to Mizen Head, the Wild Atlantic Way's south-westerly point, capturing the raw beauty of the wild Atlantic Ocean and crossing the iconic bridge to explore the Signal Station. You conclude the day in Bantry Town's beautiful harbour setting. Wander quirky shops, meet locals, and visit Bantry House & Gardens, reminiscent of continental 'palazzos.' Return to picturesque Kinsale for another night. Day Three Discover the grandeur of Charles Fort, a star-shaped military installation steeped in Irish history. Next, immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Irish whiskey with a tour of Midleton Distillery Cork (formerly Jameson). And embark on a culinary journey in the beautiful town of Cobh, offering free time for exploration. The night unfolds in Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, with a scenic coastal route featuring flexible photo stops. Enjoy the mystery of unexpected sights, perhaps at Bunmahon Beach or Tankardstown Copper Mine. Day Four Marvel at Jerpoint Abbey's Cistercian wonders, its Romanesque and Gothic remnants echoing through time. Dive into Kilkenny, a city blending modernity with medieval charm. An interactive tour at Smithwick’s Experience offers insights into the 18th-century brewery. With ample free time, explore shops, restaurants, museums, and the grandeur of Kells Priory, revealing medieval military prowess. Return to Waterford for a night of exploration, dining, and merriment. Day Five Venture to New Ross, home to the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic 1840s emigrant vessel offering insights into the famine experience. Continue to the renowned Glendalough Monastic Site, where serene lakes and ancient ruins provide a historical pilgrimage. Conclude your journey with a visit to Powerscourt House and Gardens. Marvel at stunning views, landscaped gardens, and ornamental lakes, wrapping up your tour as you head back to Dublin.

Your premium small group tour is operated by Elegant Irish Tours, our 5 star daughter brand. You will enjoy a luxury Mercedes- Benz touring vehicle with maximum 25 passengers. The tour begins with a pick up from the cruise liner terminal in Dunmore East. Tours depart 30 minutes after the first tender arrives dockside. (Note: if for operational reasons your ship is not able to dock, your tour will be refunded completely). The tour begins with a drive to Kilkenny, the medieval capital of Ireland situated on the banks of the river Nore. Here we spend time discovering this lovely city with highlights including the St. Canice's Cathedral and of course the Kilkenny Castle (Norman Castle) dating back to 1195 (€12 entrance included). We will have time to visit Kilkenny design center where we see some traditional arts and crafts, and enjoy a fine lunch with great selections of all types of traditional and artisan foods (not included). We head back to Waterford where we see Reginald's Tower, the Viking Triangle and end up in Waterford Crystal factory and take an amazing tour where we can see the glass blowers in action crafting the fine pieces (€18 entrance included). We return to port 1h before departure after a wonderful day spent touring this region, and hopefully we will meet in the next port!