Enniscorthy Castle

A 13th-century castle standing on a rock at the head of the Slaney's navigable tideway. Probably built by Gerald de Prendergast during the 1230s. In 1253 it passed through marriage to the Rochford family, and by the 15th century was held by the MacMurrough Kavanaghs. It was captured by Cromwellian troops in 1649 and was used as a prison during the 1798 Rebellion. During the early 19th century the castle suffered a restoration by the Earl of Plymouth, and yet another at the end of the century by a local MP who enlarged it and used it as a residence. The building now houses the county museum. It has been renovated in 2011, with displays and tour exploring the development of the Castle and town from its earliest Anglo-Norman origins (12th Century) through to the 20th century with recreations of the last resident's rooms. The exhibition also explores the 1916 Rising in Enniscorthy when it was occupied by members of the Irish Volunteers during the Easter Rising. Visitors may also access the roof during a guided tour, offering spectacular views of the surrounding buildings, Vinegar Hill, and the Wexford countryside. Group size on tours is limited to 25. Facilities include craft & gift shop, wheelchair access to all floors and a visitor information point.