Autumn is a great time to visit Waterford. Our character-filled and compact city can feel a little crowded during the busy summer months and it fills up quickly at Christmas for Winterval. Autumn is a great time to enjoy the attractions, the change in season and the relatively quiet atmosphere in the city and surroundings. You’re more likely to get a table at your favourite restaurants and there are no queues for our best tourist attractions. The weather may not always cooperate with your plans but there are plenty of things to do in Waterford for all ages, indoors and outdoors. Book a couples, group or family break in Viking Hotel Waterford on our official website to enjoy our best available rates, guaranteed.
WATERFORD GREENWAY
Enjoy the change in seasons from a unique vantage point when you travel the Waterford Greenway this autumn. Ireland’s longest greenway, this 46km walk and bike trail runs past castles, a Viking settlement and takes in some of the most stunning scenery of the east of Ireland. During the summer months, it’s usually packed with riders trying to get that picture-perfect shot and that’s if you’re lucky enough to secure a bike rental from a local company during the high demand. During autumn, you can take your time exploring the area, stopping in local cafes, and admiring the sights including the aqueduct, rolling hills and fields and so much more. If you’re travelling with your bike, Viking Hotel Waterford provides free-of-charge bike parking to guests and we’re a short distance from the Greenway.
VIKING TRIANGLE
One of the highlights of the city centre is exploring the fascinating Viking Triangle –it’s a bonus that most of it is indoors! Waterford’s Medieval Museum is a striking building housing a 13th-century choristers’ hall and a 15th-century wine vault. If you’re there at the right time you can enjoy costumed reenactments as part of a guided tour. Pair this with a visit to Reginald’s Tower, a circular 13th-century waterside defence tower with a large collection of archaeological artefacts. Close by, the stately Bishop’s Palace showcases 1600s artefacts. Waterford Crystal is a more modern and very important of the tapestry of Waterford culture. Enjoy guided factory tours of the high-end crystal makers ending with a large store selling their products.
HALLOWEEN IN WATERFORD
Did you know that Ireland is the home of Halloween? The roots of Halloween can be traced back 2000 years to the Celtic Samhain festival, which celebrated the end of summer. These days it’s a whimsical holiday for children to dress up and eat sweets but Waterford has a spooky side that’s great to explore during your Autumn break. As the oldest city in Ireland, Waterford is also said to be the most haunted. A ghost tour is a great way to learn about the city’s spooky past and visit some of the spookiest spots in Waterford. You’ll visit haunted pubs, graveyards, and other eerie locations, and hear stories of ghosts, witches, and other supernatural beings.
AUTUMN FESTIVALS IN WATERFORD
There is always something going on in Waterford if you know where to look. Festival season doesn’t stop after summer and there is still plenty to look forward to. The Festival of Architecture happens in October and works towards enhancing the understanding and appreciation of architecture with a varied programme of events. The Harvest Festival happens every year in September and is a foodie’s paradise. The streets come alive with the sights, smells, and sounds of local producers and cooks. From 24th to 29th October, the Imagine Arts Festival brings together the infinite possibilities of all things creative in Waterford City. Enjoy theatre, music, visual art, dance, and more during this exciting week of celebrations.
HOTEL IN WATERFORD
The Viking Hotel is located on the Cork Road, 4kms from the city centre. Our location is ideal for guests visiting the Greenway or those who treasure a peaceful night’s sleep without the disturbances of the city. For those travelling with a car, The Viking Hotel has ample free parking for both cars and bikes. There is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel for all the guests. The Wooden Pestle Bar & Restaurant has a great atmosphere and is enjoyed by residents and locals alike with sumptuous dishes from lunch and light snacks to an evening meal.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is a resident writer for Viking Hotel Waterford, a modern hotel located 4km from the historic Waterford city, the oldest city in Ireland. Aside from traveling itself, this lady also enjoys writing friendly tips and tricks about travel, food, and lifestyle.
