Waterford, Ireland

Martha,

As always, it depends on your interests and priorities.

My wife and I stopped by during our two week tour of Ireland just to see the Crystal Factory. Now that this is closed to tourists, I don't think it's worth it unless you have something specific you want to see there.

With the closing of the crystal factory, I, too, would skip it. Too many other places to see /go to. Many other options for a castle stay other than Waterford Castle.

It depends how long you have. I had 7 weeks in Ireland so I don't regeret going to Waterford, but with only a week or two for instance it would not be high on my list of things to see. If you do go to Waterford, you could also stay in Tramore which is a seaside village about a 20min bus ride away. It has a lovely walk you can do on the edge of the Irish Sea.

Does anyone know if the crystal factory will re-open soon? Our trip is in October and I am hopeful it will be back in operation by then.

Thanks.

We have been to Waterford twice and toured the crystal factory. The town is not very attractive--has an industrial feel to it. However, if you need to see Waterford and want to spend a night I highly recommend Foxmount Farm B&B. It is located outside the town, is a working farm, and is lovely. The owner serves a wonderful dinner.

Susan's right about Foxmount - a truly exceptional B&B. A lovely home in a quiet setting with large bedrooms and a great breakfast.

Gail, I don't think there are any active plans to re-open the crystal factory. From a cultural/historical perspective I think it's a shame that it closed. On the other hand, as much as I could appreciate the incredible workmanship I didn't really like most of the products that the factory produced - too fussy and old-fashioned for my tastes. But that's just a personal taste thing.

Regardless, I wouldn't hold out hope that it will re-open any time soon if ever.

I googled "Waterford Bankruptcy" and one of the articles (from earlier this year) was titled "Waterford Crystal Closed Amid Crippling Debts". Sounds like there isn't much hope....

When in Waterford in June my walking tour guide told me that the crystal factor was bought out by an American company. Therefore, it can now be manufactured anywhere in the world and be called Waterford Crystal - very sad. It didn't sound like it would be opening anytime soon, or that if it did it would even open in Waterford.

At the site, it says Opening in June 2010. I know this is mostly a showroom at a mall, but does anyone know WHEN in June or if it is open? We'll be through the area this Sunday and even if it is not the factory, would like to see this pseudo setup.

We were at the new Waterford Crystal place today and their Grand Opening is tomorrow. No General Public, It is located in the City Mall, 2 blocks up from the Tower Hotel. They domake stuff there, but do have a much smaller workforce than at the original factory,