Did you know that Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city? The history of Waterford dates back to the 9th century when it is said that Vikings founded the city we know today. It was subsequently invaded and occupied by Anglo-Norman invaders in the 12th century and in Medieval times it was one of the most important Old English centres. If you’d like to visit the oldest city in Ireland, but would like modern, spacious accommodation that offers great value for money, stay in the Viking Hotel Waterford and learn more about our namesake.
Medieval Museum
One of Waterford’s true treasures and a must-do, when you visit our gorgeous city, is the Medieval Museum. It’s a virtual treasure trove of artefacts and exhibitions showing you exactly who and what helped to shape the Waterford we know today. The 13th-century Choristers’ Hall and the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault are incorporated into the structure of the building making the architecture as impressive as the contents. Visiting the museum is a fun and informational day out for all, from families to couples.
The Viking Triangle
The Viking Triangle is a culturally and historically significant settlement area in Waterford, so-called because of the 1000-year-old Viking walls which once surrounded it. A walking tour of the triangle means you can experience 1100 years of Waterford’s history from the Vikings to the Victorians in just 45-minutes! The tour includes visiting five national monuments dated between 1190AD to 1783 and is a great way for visitors to experience historical and archaeological treasures from Irish History. You’ll also witness the developments in architecture over a period of a thousand years. The visit includes Reginald’s Tower first mentioned in 1088, Greyfriars Medieval Franciscan friary 1240, Choristers’ Hall 1270, the Mayor’s Wine Vault 1448, the Bishop’s Palace 1743 and Christ Church Cathedral 1783.
King of the Vikings
We’ve taken advantage our of rich Viking heritage here in Waterford and some of our talented locals have built the world’s first Viking reality adventure! Each 30-minute tour allows you to explore the world of the Vikings in Waterford – formerly known as Vadrafjord. Enjoy a visit to a handcrafted replica of a traditional Viking house and the authentic ruins of a 13th-Century Franciscan Friary so you can get a feel of what life was like in those days. The King of the Vikings Experience even won Trip Advisors travellers choice award in 2018 so you can trust that you will have an excellent experience.
Reginald’s Tower
Reginald’s Tower is Waterford’s landmark monument and Ireland’s oldest civic building. It has been in use for over 800 years. The first tower on the site was built by Vikings around 914AD and was the centre point for the Viking Triangle, a popular settlement area at the time. Inside, as well as a very impressive spiral staircase, you’ll find ancient artefacts such as a Viking warriors’ sword, a decorative brooch, gaming pieces and a gaming board and an ancient dog collar. The tower is a fascinating insight into the Viking culture and how they lived from day to day.
If you want to visit the original home of the Vikings this year, avoid overpriced city centre hotels. When you stay in Viking Hotel on the fringe of Waterford City you can enjoy our stylish Wooden Pestle Bar & Restaurant, our comfortable bedrooms and save money on expensive city parking rates with our ample free parking for guests. You can also enjoy a leisurely cycle on the closeby Waterford Greenway. For our best available rates, always book directly on our official website or by contacting one of our friendly team.
If travelling to Waterford to see any of these Viking attractions, the Viking Hotel Waterford is conveniently located just off the M9 Motorway from Dublin and the N25 from Cork. Offering ample free car parking, Wi-Fi and newly renovated Bar, Restaurant & Lobby area; it is the perfect base to explore these wonderful locations from. Contact us today on 051336933 to make your reservation or log onto the website www.vikinghotelwaterford.ie for more.
