Irelands Ancient East

Ireland’s Ancient East is a region that consists of many historical turns and twists! From Norman knights, High kings to Viking invaders, fleeing emigrants and monks: Ireland’s Ancient East boasts of great legends, mighty battles and strange tales. Experiences and entertainment for the entire family to enjoy.

On the hook peninsula just, a short drive from Hookless are two amazing attractions Hook Lighthouse the world’s oldest working lighthouse and Loftus hall Ireland most haunted house. Both are must-see tours for guests coming for a short stay with us. If guests are staying for up to a week or more and really have time to explore the Ancient East Hookless is less than an hour’s drive from Wexford, New Ross, Kilkenny and Waterford. Making it the ideal location for a self-catering holiday in Ireland.

Travel to New Ross which has strong ties to the USA with John F Kennedy visiting the town in 1963, his great grandfather’s home farm is still being farmed to this day and is open as a visitor centre. The town also boasts one of the largest tapestry in Europe. Each panel depicts a period in History of Wexford, Waterford & Kilkenny and the many battles throughout our troubled history. The Dunbrody Famine Ship is an essential stop for every visitor of New Ross an authentic replica of a coffin ship offering visitors an insight into the hardship emigrants went through in their journey towards a better life.

Wexford is another town steeped in history which is home to the National Heritage Park that takes you on a journey through time from the Dark Ages, through Early Christian Settlements, to the Vikings & Normans. The heritage park outlines what life was like in Ireland but for more of a taste on how hard Ireland fought to protect our land from the British Vinegar Hill in Enniscorthy is the place to visit.

Kilkenny the ‘Marble City’ famous for its medieval streets and the stunning cityscape is a day trip worth taking. Kilkenny Castle in the heart of the city is a magnificent Norman Castle. Built in 1195 by William Marshal to control the fording of the River of the River Nore, 3 out of 4 of the original towers can be seen today. Looking for fine dining achieving 3rd place in Ireland’s Top Foodie Destinations, there is no end to the number of wonderful places to eat in Kilkenny.

A day trip to Waterford Ireland’s oldest city can start by taking a short ferry ride from Ballyhack, Wexford to Passage East Waterford. Waterford’s history has very strong links to the Vikings and the best place to experience this is the Viking Triangle, the city’s historical & cultural centre. For someone looking to experience the natural beauty of Ireland look no further than the Waterford Greenway. 46km of spectacular off-road cycling and walking along a converted, disused railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan.

Waterford is also home to Winterval, Ireland’s premier Christmas festival. From 17th November until the 23rd December the city transforms into a winter wonderland pack full of activities for all the family. The festival is a sight to behold and will be a highlight of your trip if you are staying in Hookless over the festive season.