Hook Lighthouse in County Wexford 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 Waterford Harbour for at least 2,000 years.
Hook Lighthouse & Heritage Centre
A ‘MUST SEE’ IN THE THINGS TO DO IN COUNTY WEXFORD…
Pass the rugged cliffs, the bright sea pinks, ancient ruins and traditional villages until you reach the Peninsula’s southernmost tip and you will be rewarded with a rare sight; a breathtaking panoramic coupled with Ireland’s ancient heritage. As you turn the last bend in the road and spot the iconic black and white striped lighthouse tower sitting majestically at the very tip of the Hook Peninsula you will immediately fall under its hypnotic spell.
The tapering headland of Hook Head, located in the south-western corner of county Wexford, forms the eastern boundary of the great estuary known as Waterford Harbour. The headland is sometimes called a peninsula which means “almost an island”.
Explore the oldest operational lighthouse in the world. Voted one of Ireland’s favourite attractions, Hook Lighthouse in Wexford is truly one of a kind. Purpose-built 800 years ago by Knight William Marshal, take a step back in time and enjoy a guided tour hearing tales of medieval times and life as a lightkeeper.
Today you can be guided up the 115 well worn spiral steps of the tower and explore the thick-walled chamber, with each ascending step trail the daily and nightly ritual of every lightkeeper who served at Hook Lighthouse.
Journey through the ages of the world’s oldest working lighthouse and learn the tales and fascinating stories of those who spent their lives watching over the safety of those at sea from your first meeting with the life-sized hologram figure of St. Dubhan, who tells of perishing nights spent with his fellow monks in the 5th century warning sailors against the dangers with a beacon they kept alight on the headland.
Take in the spectacular view from the balcony with miles of sea rolling out before you. Enjoy the visitor centre with gift shop, art workshop, exhibits and café.
Guided tours are on offer 7 days a week sharing with visitors one of the greatest experiences on Ireland’s Ancient East.
Guided tours of the lighthouse tower are on offer 7 days a week from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm sharing with visitors one of the greatest experiences on Ireland’s Ancient East.
Tours are open year-round every half hour from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm and later during peak season.
Bespoke and private tours are also on offer and don’t miss out on the regularly announced Sunset and Sunrise Tour Experiences.
Rated as a ‘must-see’ by TripAdvisor, Hook Lighthouse is waiting to welcome you and Treacys Enniscorthy Hotel is the perfect accommodation to discover this and other must things to do in County Wexford.