Welcome to Ireland’s Sunny South East! This gorgeous region includes Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford, and Wexford. But here’s the real question: Is it actually sunnier than the rest of Ireland? Well apparently, yes! According to Met Eireann – the extreme southeast gets around 7 hours of sunshine per day in early summer, while the rest of Ireland only gets between 5-6.5 hours! But it’s not just the sun that makes this area shine. The South East is packed with must-see spots just waiting to be explored!
Wexford
Wexford is famous for its annual Opera Festival, which is famous for bringing long-forgotten music to the stage. But that’s just the start! Take a drive around the stunning Ring of Hook, where you’ll get to visit the world’s oldest operating lighthouse. If you like history, visit the Irish National Heritage Park, where you can walk through replicas of ancient Stone Age, Early Christian, and Viking homes.
The ultimate Irish Castle experience can be found in Wexford’s Johnstown Castle– an extraordinary Gothic Revival Mansion. And, don’t miss out on the Dunbrody ship in New Ross, a full-scale replica of a ‘coffin-ship’ used during the Great Famine.
Waterford
Waterford City has deep Viking roots—so deep, in fact, that its name comes from the old Norse word ‘Vedrarfjiordr.’ Explore the Viking Triangle, where you’ll find lots of interesting museums. Reginald’s Tower has an exhibition that displays a superb collection of historic and archaeological artefacts. The Bishops Palace, built in 1743 by Richard Castle, offers a peek into the past, while the Medieval Museum showcases stunning medieval structures like Chorister’s Hall.
Before you leave Waterford city, we recommend stopping at the wonderful Waterford Crystal Museum. Here, you can see one of Ireland’s most famous exports in the making. Venture a bit further southeast, and you’ll find Dunmore East—a picturesque fishing village. Then, just a short trip away is the heritage town of Lismore, where you can explore beautiful period buildings like Lismore Castle and St. Carthage’s Cathedral.
Kilkenny
If you’re into sport, try go to a Hurling match! Kilkenny is most famous for its fantastic hurlers, having won the All-Ireland Hurling Championship 35 times! Kilkenny City itself is a lively spot—whether it’s a hen or stag party, or a family holiday, there’s always something happening here. Don’t miss Kilkenny Castle, the grand ancestral home of the Butler family, and Saint Canice’s Cathedral, where you can climb its round tower for incredible views of the city.
Further north, check out Castlecomer Discovery Park which has walking trails, kids’ play areas, and fishing lakes. And, in Thomastown, you can explore the impressive ruins of Jerpoint Abbey and Jerpoint Park. They are Ireland’s best example of an abandoned 12th Century medieval town.
South Tipperary
Tipperary is bursting with historic gems! The Rock of Cashel stands dramatically above Cashel town and was once a symbol of religious and royal power. In the early 5th century, it was the seat of the Kings of Munster, famously ruled by Brian Boru. Later, the fortress was handed over to the church, leaving religious sites to explore like the Hall of the Vicar’s Choral and the ruins of an ornate gothic cathedral.
Just a short distance away in the charming town of Cahir, you can visit Cahir Castle. The castle retains so much of its original character that it has been featured in many films including Excalibur! Inside, you’ll find a renovated great hall filled with authentic period furniture, giving you a real taste of medieval life.
Carlow
Carlow town is picturesquely situated where the River Barrow and the Burrin River meet. At one point, it was believed that there were four lakes here, hence the Irish word Ceathar Loch, or Four Lakes. Though Carlow is a smaller county with fewer attractions compared to other parts of Ireland, the few available are well worth a visit. Borris House in South Carlow is the ancestral home of the MacMurrough Kavanaghs, who were once kings of Leinster. The house has a rich history tied to Ireland’s royal families, and a tour will take you through centuries of fascinating stories.
One of Ireland’s newest museums, Carlow County Museum gives a fascinating insight into history of Carlow. Exhibits include a wonderful 19th century hand carved pulpit from Carlow Cathedral. And if you’re a fan of gardens, don’t miss Altamont Gardens. Stretching across a 100-acre estate, these gardens are often called Ireland’s most romantic—perfect for a peaceful stroll through nature.