With the Waterford Crystal factory tour not being offered, is it worth spending a day in the Waterford/Wexford area? I need to trim my itinerary and I think that this might be the least painful place to cut. Thanks.
Since we don't know the rest of your itinerary it's hard to say. Only you can tell if it's the least painful place to cut. There are many things of interest in the Wexford/New Ross area, but they might not be things that interest you. If it feels like the place to cut, cut -- and plan to come back again for what you missed.
I didn't care much for Waterford city (including the crystal factory). In my opinion the city doesn't have much to offer a tourist - better offerings abound.
However, I loved Waterford county, so wouldn't disuade you from going there. Just depends on what else is on your plate and whether you want a city vs. country experience. You can't fit all of Ireland in a typical 1-2 week trip. Make your choice, and resolve to visit again.
Thanks for the replies. The crystal factory was the main reason to spend a day in the area. I realize that there are many other attractions in the area, but I just don't feel that they are going to be worth a day of my itinerary. There is always next time I guess. I believe that there are a couple of other crystal factories in Ireland. Does anyone know where they are located and if any of them offer tours. Thanks.
We drove past the Tipperary crystal factory several times in past visits. They offer tours, and it actually looks like it might be a bit more personalized than Waterford.
http://www.goireland.com/tipperary/crystal-glass-in-tipperary-county-page1.htm
There are better options , I am believe not sure your route so I won't suggest.
John from Brangwin WA -
I've lived in Washington for over 50 years and have never heard of Brangwin. Also cannot understand your post, as it has several grammatical errors. Where do do you live and what are you trying to say?
John, I would really like to hear what the other "better" options are. Please expound!
In my pkg trip there is a free tour of Waterford Crystal Factory.
I was there in the late 1980s and we toured the factory and saw the glass cutters etc.
I had heard that the factory tour has been closed - so I'm wondering what my "free" Waterford Crystal Tour is????? Does anyone know????
Thanks
Frances, you should contact your tour company to find out.
There is a gift shop at the Waterford factory that, if I recall, also had some displays set up. In tour language, that could be the free tour.
Overall Waterford wasn't at all memorable and I could have easily skipped it.
Take my(our) opinion(s) with a grain of salt. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences. Something I didn't like at all may be the highlight or your trip and vice versa.