DK Travel : Dublin : Places of interest

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Tullynally Castle

Originally constructed in the 17th century, most of Tullynally today is a result of the second Earl of Longford’s remodelling of it as a rambling Gothic Revival castle, housing a collection of Irish furniture and portraits. Outside are romantic grounds and walled gardens.
Ulster-American Folk Park and Ulster History Park

Many Americans can trace their roots back to 19th-century rural Ulster, and many, like local-born millionaire Thomas Mellon, did very well in their new home. The Folk Park, built around Mellon’s birthplace, reconstructs their lives on both sides of the Atlantic. The nearby History Park tells the region’s rich story from the Stone Age up to the Protestant Plantation.
Valentia Island and the Skelligs

The Skellig Experience museum, near the causeway linking Valentia Island to the mainland, includes exhibits on the history of the Skellig Michael monastic site and a range of information on local flora and fauna. Valentia is a popular holiday spot and is particularly good for watersports, but the only inhabitants of the Skelligs now are the birds. Cruises circle the islands but do not land.
Viking Splash Tour

A costumed driver gives a lively tour on land in a military amphibious vehicle before splashing into the waters of the Grand Canal Quay. Passengers are encouraged to let out Viking roars.
Waterford City Centre

Surviving sections of Waterford’s city walls show clearly the limits of the original Viking settlement, also bordered on one side by the River Suir. Today that waterfront, with its lively and attractive quays, is the focal point of the town. The 18th-century City Hall houses important local memorabilia, and hosts the Waterford Show, an entertainment about the town’s history.
Waterford Crystal Factory

Most visitors to Waterford come specifically to see its famous glassworks – and buy whatever they can afford of its renowned “crystal”. First opened in 1783, closed in 1851 and reopened in 1947, the factory has always used the same production methods, every item being individually hand-crafted. A 40-minute tour and a film show off the astonishing skill of the glassblowers and cutters, while the Crystal Gallery displays an array of what is made.
Waterford Treasures at the Granary Museum

This old stone grainstore has been cleverly and attractively converted to house an extraordinary interactive museum revealing Waterford’s impressive Viking and Norman history. It gets in the mood with an invader’s-eye view from a wave-tossed Viking ship. Kids love it, and there’s a lot that is just for fun, but the more serious-minded can ignore the wizardry and focus on the archaeological finds.
Wax Museum

Small children enjoy “The World of Fairytales and Fantasy”; older children prefer the Chamber of Horrors and models of pop idols (see National Wax Museum).
Westport

Busy, popular Westport is still small enough that countryside can be seen at the end of the main streets. Originally built in 1780 by the Earl of Altamont as an adjunct to his mansion Westport House, this is a good example of a planned town, with its dignified central Octagon and tree-lined Mall. It was all paid for by the slave-worked West Indian sugar plantations of the Earl’s wife. Westport House remains imposing and grandly furnished, although touristy, with added attractions such as video games and an animal park.
Youghal

About 30 km (18 miles) east of Cork, Youghal (pronounced “Yawl”) has a great location on both the Atlantic Ocean and the tamer banks of the River Black-water’s estuary. The impressive walls enclosing the town are evidence of its vulnerability to attack from France and Spain – it was once one of the most heavily fortified seaports on the British coast. Queen Elizabeth I bestowed Youghal on Sir Walter Raleigh in gratitude for faithful service. Under Cromwell, however, the town became an English Protestant garrison.