Enniscorthy Castle

Enniscorthy Castle is a Norman fortress in County Wexford with four corner towers and a rectangular keep rising four stories above the River Slaney. The solid stone structure dominates the old town center and now serves as a museum with extensive gallery spaces.

Stone construction began in 1190 under Philipp de Prendergast and his wife Maud, replacing an earlier wooden stronghold. During the 1798 Rebellion, it served as a prison holding both Irish rebels and British soldiers at different points.

The Wexford County Museum displays collections showing local crafts and the daily life of people who lived here over the centuries.

You can tour the castle through guided visits and explore special exhibitions showing how it evolved from a working fortress to today's museum. It is best to arrive earlier in the day when it is less crowded and you can walk through the rooms at a comfortable pace.

The fortress held both Irish rebels and British soldiers as prisoners during the 1798 Rebellion, with control shifting between the two sides. This intense period left visible marks on the building that visitors can still see today.

Location: Enniscorthy

GPS coordinates: 52.50145,-6.56716

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:01