County Wexford - Towns

This village was once the capital of Leinster. The see of Ferns was founded in the sixth century by St Maodhog (or Mogue). The religious settlement and the town which grew around it were often plundered by the Danes.

In the twelfth century the King of Leinster , Dermot MacMurrough, made Ferns his capital and founded the abbey there. After the Anglo-Norman invasion the town declined, and in 1406 the episcopal see was transferred to New Ross.

The present Church of Ireland church incorporates sections of the 13th century cathedral thought to have been built by the first Anglo-Norman bishop of the diocese.

There are some 8th/9th century High Crosses in the vicinity of the abbey ruin and the 12th century fragment of a High Cross reputedly marks the last resting place of Dermot McMurrough. The earliest identifiable headstone in the nearby graveyard dates to 1717.

Services in Ferns

Car Rental |  Vacation Packages

Services in Ferrycarrig

Car Rental |  Vacation Packages

Services in Ferrycarrig Bridge

Car Rental |  Vacation Packages

Services in Fethard

Car Rental |  Vacation Packages

Fethard-on-sea (The High Wood) is a quiet little resort on the eastern side of the Hook Peninsula, convenient to many fine sandy beaches. The Hook Tower is probably the oldest lighthouse in Europe, built in the twelfth century. Amenities include all types of sea fishing, sub aqua and water sports. It was once a town of some importance, being made a borough in the reign of James II. Although the place was almost deserted at the time of the Act of Union in 1800, its owners received £15,000 to compensate for its disenfranchisement.

Services in Fethard on Sea

Car Rental |  Vacation Packages

GoIreland.com operated by Gulliver Ireland, FEXCO Center, Killorglin, Co.Kerry, Ireland