The Hook Lighthouse and Heritage Centre
Near Riverside Park Hotel
A visit to this hidden Irish gem is a must and is an ideal day trip within Wexford This Irish lighthouse sits at the top of breathtaking Hook Head, rich in history, character and natural beauty. The lighthouse is located in the south-western corner of County Wexford and forms the eastern boundary of the great estuary known as Waterford Harbour.
The Hook Lighthouse has been voted the number one lighthouse in the world and is an enduringly popular attraction in south-east Ireland. Described by Lonely Planet Guide as a “little plump lighthouse, the granddaddy of all lighthouses”, it has been marking the entrance to the Waterford Harbour for at least 2,000 years.
Today there is a visitor centre, a café serving light meals, a gift shop and the tower itself to discover. Hook Lighthouse offers guided tours of the lighthouse tower all year round—one of the top things to do in Wexford and Waterford. Climb the 115 steps to enjoy the spectacular view of the county coastline from the balcony.
A range of festivals and family events take place at Hook Lighthouse, including the Maritime Matters Festival on the May bank holiday weekend, the pirate festival in July, a series of summer lectures and Heritage Week Vintage Day. Themed cookery demonstrations, historical re-enactments, charity fundraisers and themed art workshops are other unique ways to enjoy the atmosphere of Hook Lighthouse.