Things to Do in Waterford

Waterford Crystal, the prestigious brand behind New York City’s Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball and the chandeliers at Westminster Abbey, was founded back in 1783. These days, the public can visit the main crystal factory complex to observe skilled craftsmen blowing the molten crystal or browse a collection of dazzling crystal pieces.

Though it’s housed in a modern building, Waterford’s Medieval Museum encompasses two historic sites: the 13th-century Choristers’ Hall and a 15th-century wine cellar. Rare artifacts, including 15th-century cloth-of-gold vestments and medieval-era records, reveal fascinating details about life in the port city during the Middle Ages.

Viking walls once marked the boundary of this historic district of Waterford. Though the walls no longer stand, the past still echoes loudly, with centuries-old landmarks such as the 13th-century Reginald’s Tower and attractions including the Medieval Museum painting an evocative picture of Waterford in times gone by.

Situated on an isolated peninsula overlooking the Celtic Sea, this large manor house has served as a private family residence, a Catholic school and convent, and a hotel. Now open to the public, Loftus Hall has a reputation as one of Ireland’s most haunted sights—local lore suggests the devil himself made a call here in the 18th century.