If you're hungry to learn more about Ireland's past, then New Ross should be next on your to do list. It's a quick half an hour drive from Waterford City and there's plenty of things to do in the area - One of our top picks is The Dunbrody Irish Emigrant Experience.
When famine struck Ireland in 1845, many faced starvation as the potato crop was failing and food prices began to soar. This led to widespread emigration and a huge surge in the need for passenger ships. Entrepreneurial merchants took up the opportunity and fitted their cargo vessels with bunks to meet the extra demand. One such merchant family was William Graves & Son in New Ross whom commissioned the original Dunbrody as well as 7 sister ships.
The Dunbrody Experience details the story of the many Irish people whom went on the journey across the unknown for the chance of a new life abroad. Visitors to this experience will be guided by an expert aboard the 3 masted bargue ship. During the tour, costumed performers will bring the experience to life, illustrating the harsh conditions many faced while taking the journey on a famine ship. The tour finishes in the arrivals hall, revealing the fate awaiting those who survived the journey. For more information and booking details, visit dunbrody.com.
Looking for more things to do in New Ross? How about a trip to Duncannon Fort & Beach? Duncannon is an impressive presentation of a bastioned fortress situated along the Hook Penninsula with wonderful views of the Waterford estuary. Visitors can pre-book a 45 minute guided tour to learn more.
Maybe you'd rather explore the magical woodlands of Dunbrody Forest? There are four different trails to choose from - The Forest of Dunbrody Trail, Lacken Hillside trail, Scarke Loop and Millstream Trail. All vary in distance and have wonderful surroundings rich in wild herbs, fungi, berries and wildlife. From the summit of Lacken Hill you'll find panoramic views of the Comeragh Mountains, Brandon Hill, the Blackstairs Mountains and the Barrow estuary.