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The Irish National Heritage Park is an open-air museum near Wexford which tells the story of human settlement in Ireland from the Mesolithic period up to the Norman Invasion in 1169.

Description

The Irish National Heritage Park is an open-air museum near Wexford which tells the story of human settlement in Ireland from the Mesolithic period up to the Norman Invasion in 1169.

Posts

Staff are excellent here and, were most helpful even changing our ticket request to save us on admission. There are audio tours available for hire, but the free guided tours are fantastic too, and we joined that latter. The guide was excellent, but you can learn just as much by reading the information panels next to each exhibit, so don't feel the need to always keep pace and not spend enough time at something that really interests you, especially if you have children. There are loads of activities for children to undertake, you can have a go at weaving their own pre-historic home, panning for gold, carving your own mark in stone, or moving a large slab of stone. If you rush around you could do it all in an hour or two, as stated on the entry information panels, but if you take advantage of everything on offer, then you really need a full day here. Although not included in the admission price, archery is available for three euros, giving you ten shots. I really must compliment the instructor, for being most helpful and spending the time to teach correct stance, posture, and technique, rather than it just being fundraising sideshow. Bushcraft techniques are also taught here on a regular basism and there are many special guests who give demonstrations here throughout the year, so do check online to see what's coming up during your stay. When I visited there were Viking ladies going about their daily chores, and teaching everyone about their traditional dress, sock making techniques, and cookery skills amongst other things. At the same time in another area, a group of experts were demonstrating the knapping of flint, and sharing their passion for the ancient art. At the end of the visit, children that undertook the various challenges will receive a certificate and some colouring-in sheets, when they hand in their piece of panned gold. Although the history of Ireland and the structures used as houses in Ireland through the ages are the focus here, there is plenty of fauna and flora for nature lovers too. Don't miss the Round Tower either, as it has a great vantage point for some lovely photos.

Clive BilbyClive Bilby
00

Tastefully done and realistic hettage park which is educational and a joy to visit. It isn't overly thematic or tacky, rather it recreates how early Irish ancestors would have lived around the Viking/Norman periods. A great deal of interest is provided for children with a treasure hunt and panning for gold. They turn in their gold at the end to receive a badge. On our visit we went to the Aviary also, beside the tall round tower, and received a great chat with Jim, the bird keeper, who talked us through the various birds of prey and told us his two pet Macaws were brother and sister. Without asking he brought out a Tawny Owl and allowed the kids to let it perch on gloved hands. It was an unexpected surprise and showed how above and beyond the staff will go to make your visit memorable. Viking Susan was brilliant with everyone and entertained us with facts galore as well as impressing with her linguistic skills. What struck me about visiting the heritage park was how relaxing it was and we had a great day exploring the fabulous thatched buildings of old and reading about their history, from moat to monks and seamstress to Viking warriors. Highly recommended.

DD
00

We started the day with an age of invasion tour. Brilliant guide, marvellous historian, enthusiastic story-teller, really enjoyed the 35 minute tour with KIERON. We had to ask for the audio phones as they aren’t offered upon entry or advertised which is a pity as they are in 9 languages. The park should maintain these as the receptionist said they were old and mostly broken, she had only 12 in working condition. We loved the walk through the park, listening to the narrator on the audiophone. It certainly wouldn’t have been such a pleasureable visit without them. We were there for 5 hours including eating in the restaurant. Delicious food, very reasonably priced. The reason I give 4 stars and not 5 is because the management do not update the website. I specifically clicked on “Plan your visit, restaurant opening times” and read that it was open all day. What they do not specify is that breakfast is only until 12:30, lunch (hot meals) until 15:15 and cakes and coffee until 18:15. A BIG THANK YOU TO CATHERINE FOR FEEDING US AT 15:45

Michel VIPMichel VIP
00

After almost 10 years, and now with kid, we came back to what I think is one of the most beautiful and entertaining historical parks in Europe. It will easily take you 3 to 4 hours to visit it, even more if you fancy the nature paths. Only the road noise nearby regularly reminds you that you still are in the 21st century ! The guides are great, it’s really easy to join one of the tours during the day since they rotate the three periods every 45 minutes, from prehistory to the age of invasion. My favorite part is the early christian Ireland, especially the reconstructed monastery, which has a very nice atmosphere. And to climb up the hill to the Crimea War Monument, embracing a wonderful view on the River Slaney. Our 7 years old boy loved everything in this park, and we were really glad to rediscover the tumultuous past of this beautiful country. It’s probably not our last visit here.

Julien LavalJulien Laval
00

Had an amazing day at the national heritage park today with my mum and dog. We were a bit skeptical about going as neither of us would be mad history lovers, only have a mild interest. We had an amazing time and spent over 3 hours there. There is so much to see and do and the park is so beautiful. The park is very well laid out and every stage has a great description. We had a great time and learned so much. The park would also be perfect for kids, lots to keep them entertained. It's also very dog friendly with lots of dog water bowl along the trails. We had tea and scones from the cafe and the food was fresh and service was great. Finally they are doing a great job at ensure that covid regulations are being followed with hand sanitising points everywhere. Thanks for a great day. Will definitely be back.

MeganMegan
30

I saw on their website that the INHP will have Master Falconer, Jim O’Connor, bring a Harris’ Hawk to your wedding to deliver your wedding rings at the ceremony. The minute I saw that was a possibility, I knew it would be perfect for my now-husband, who is a huge birder, on our wedding day. Since this was a very unique experience, I didn’t really know what to expect. The experience was more than I could have ever hoped for!! Not only did Jim bring a Harris’ Hawk, he also brought two owls (one was a baby and absolutely adorable) and Peregrine falcon. We got to hold and interact with all of the birds which was a magical experience!!! I loved every minute of having Jim and the birds at our wedding! I highly recommend this experience!!!

Alexis GainesAlexis Gaines
10
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Overview

4.7(1.8K reviews)

Phone

+353 53 912 0733

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Website

irishheritage.ie

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Deep Dive

A deep dive into Irish National Heritage Park