There are many things to do across the Emerald Isle, but why not try your hand in south-east Ireland, a stunning sect of the country which attracts thousands of tourists every year.
In recent years, south-east Ireland has been highlighted and showcased as a tourism hotspot as part of Ireland’s Ancient East promotion. As there is no shortage of things to see in the area, it should come as no surprise that it has become one of the most popular regions to visit in Ireland.
From castle ruins to national parks, and from domineering mountains to cascading waterfalls, this particular portion of the country is one of the most scenic across its four provinces and is a must for any Irish bucket list.
In this article, we will rank what we believe to be the 10 best things to see in south-east Ireland.
10. Huntington Castle, Co. Carlow – take a trip back in time
Visiting Huntington Castle, one of the best things to do in Carlow, is like taking a trip back in time where you can immerse yourself into the 17th century. One of the main attractions at the castle is the centuries-old gardens which contain beautiful French lime trees, ornamental lawns and a stunning fish pond.
Address: Huntington Castle, Huntington, Clonegall, Co. Carlow, Y21 K237, Ireland
9. Brownshill Dolmen, Co Carlow – one of Ireland’s most ancient burial sites
Brownshill Dolmen is one of Ireland’s most ancient burial sites and the largest of its kind in Europe. This prehistoric burial site is said to have belonged to the megalithic people and weighs a huge 103 tonnes, making it one of the best things to see in south-east Ireland.
Address: Hackettstown, Hacketstown Rd, Carlow, Ireland
8. Loftus Hall, Co. Wexford – one of the most haunted places in Ireland
If you are feeling adventurous and looking for a scare then there is no place better to visit than Loftus Hall, which is located on the beautifully scenic Hook peninsula. Loftus Hall has a long and storied history with the most famous event being that the devil was said to once appear there.
Address: Hook Head, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland
7. The Irish National Heritage Park, Co. Wexford – a 9,000-year journey through Ireland’s history
The Irish National Heritage Park in Wexford is the largest open-air archaeology park in the country and takes visitors on a journey through 9,000 years of Irish history through the use of full recreations of old Irish settlements which are spread over a 180m trail.
Address: Ferrycarrig, Co. Wexford, Ireland
6. Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny – one of the best things to see in south-east Ireland
Kilkenny Castle and gardens are a beautiful spectacle that can be found within the heart of Kilkenny city. Kilkenny Castle is one of the best places to see in South-East Ireland and attracts visitors both young and old to enjoy the sights it has to offer.
Address: The Parade, Collegepark, Kilkenny, R95 YRK1, Ireland
5. Smithwick’s Experience Brewery Tour, Kilkenny – grab a taste of the world-famous beer
The Smithwick’s Experience Brewery Tour offers visitors an insight into the brewing process of Smithwick’s beer and a history of it within Kilkenny. The tour is family-friendly and those over 18 will even be offered a complimentary pint of Smithwicks at the end of the tour.
Address: 44 Parliament St, Gardens, Kilkenny, R95 VK54, Ireland
4. The Comeragh Mountains, Co. Waterford – an area surrounded by rugged beauty
The Comeragh Mountains contain incredibly beautiful views of County Waterford which make it a must-see for any avid hikers looking for an adventure in south-east Ireland. When at the Comeragh Mountains you can also witness Coumshingaun Lake, which was formed as a result of a glacier thousands of years ago.
Address: Curraheen, Co. Waterford, Ireland
3. Reginald’s Tower, Co Waterford – the gem in Waterford’s Viking Triangle
Reginald’s Tower is an ancient tower which dates back to the 12th century and is a part of the historical tour of the Viking Triangle and is one of six towers which were said to have aided in the defence of the Viking city.
Address: The Quay, Waterford, Ireland
2. Powerscourt Waterfall, Co Wicklow – a mesmerizing waterfall
Powerscourt Waterfall, located on the Powerscourt Estate, is a 121m-high waterfall that has a fairy tale atmosphere as it is surrounded by tall leafy trees that are complemented by the sound of roaring water as it falls graciously down from the cliff.
The waterfall can also be viewed in all its glory from the gardens beneath which are home to a playground for children and also a café for those wishing to get a bite to eat.
Address: Powerscourt Demesne, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
1. Glendalough, Co Wicklow – the best thing to see in south-east Ireland
Number one on our list of the 10 best things to see in south-east Ireland is Glendalough, which contains a 6th-century medieval settlement of strong Irish religious and historic importance and is nestled in the rolling green hills of the Wicklow Mountains. There is enough beauty and history here for any adventurer to enjoy.
Address: Unnamed Road, Derrybawn, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
That concludes our list of the top 10 best things to see in south-east Ireland. How many of them have you done already?
