Johnstown Castle & Gardens
The exquisite 19th century Victorian castle, which gives the estate it's name, is nestled within 50 acres of ornamental grounds. Stroll through the wooded grounds with over 200 different kinds of trees and shrubs, or relax by the castle lakeside with its Gothic towers and waterfalls. Ramble along the lake terrace walk lined with statues to the garden lake. Both lakes are home to a wide range of waterfowl e.g. swans and little grebes. Pass through the Devil's Gateway into the walled ornamental garden and hothouses. This hidden paradise provides a dazzling, colourful array of flowering plants. The sunken Italian Garden contains a shaded picnic area where one can sit and watch the peacocks strut by. Other attractions include the ruin of a medieval tower house called Rathlannon Castle and the old farm buildings which house the Irish Agricultural Museum. Please note that unfortunately Johnstown Castle itself is not open to the public.
Irish National Heritage Park
A Visit to the Irish National Heritage Park is like no other you can imagine. Surprises await around every turn as you explore 35 acres of this remarkable heritage trail. From campsite to CRingfort, from mill to fulacht Fiadh. from Crannog to Viking house, every activity is an unexpected adventure into 9000 years. The world you enter is an authentic recreation of Ireland’s heritage. Homesteads, places of ritual, burial modes and long forgotten remains will enlighten the casual visitor and, interest the scholar. The Park, Restaurant & Shop are open everyday, all year round. Opening Times May-August 9.30-6.30 (last Admission time 5pm) / September-April 9.30-5.30pm (last admission time 3-4pm.
John F Kennedy Arboretum, Wexford
John F. Kennedy Arboretum is dedicated to the memory of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th president of the United States of America until his assassination on 22nd November 1963. It consists of 622 acres including 4,500 types of trees and shrubs, 200 forest plots, rhododendrons, and dwarf conifers. We offer exhibitions, guided tours, signposted walks, lake, cafe & miniature railway (seasonal), pony & trap service, also a playground and picnic area.
Enniscorthy Castle & 1798 Rebellion Centre
Enniscorthy Castle explores the development of the Castle and town from its earliest Anglo-Norman origins, with a special focus on the Castle of a Family Home. The Exhibition also explores 1916 rising in Enniscorthy (the only town to rise outside of Dublin), as well as the work of the renowned Irish Furniture designer and architect Eileen Gray. The roof of the castle is also accessible with spectacular views of the surrounding Countryside & Vinegar Hill. (Access to the roof only available during guided tours). The National Rebellion Centre is located in the shadow of Vinegar Hill. The Centre tells the epic and heroic tale of the 1798 Rebellion and its aftermath using the latest multi-media and interactive exhibits.
Wells House & Gardens
Located in Ballyedmond, Gorey Co. Wexford just over a 20 minute drive from the Hotel and waiting to be explored is Wells House & Gardens, a Great Victorian House and Gardens in the heart of Wexford. Wells House has something for all generations to enjoy and share with their Woodland Walks, Victorian Terrace Gardens, Adventure Playground, Living Victorian House Tour, Wells House Archery, Wells House Falconry, The Oak Tree Restaurant, and Craft Courtyard. Come to wander and explore all this historic estate has to offer and witness how the house and Arboretum, Lake, and Ha Ha’s are further restored for future generations.
