Dunbrody Abbey

 

Founded in 1210, Dunbrody Abbey is one of the finest examples of a Cistercian monastery in Ireland. Located in Campile, County Wexford, today the abbey features a visitor centre and small cafe specialising in delicious home-baked goods. 

Dunbrody Abbey and Visitor Centre in County Wexford are built on the site of one of the most impressive ruined Cistercians abbeys in Ireland. It was founded by Herve de Montmorency in 1170 on the instructions of his nephew Richard de Clare (also known as Strongbow), after the Norman invasion of Ireland. And even today, the ruins contains one of the longest churches in Ireland!

 

The abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1536 and granted to the Etchingham family in 1545, at which point part of the church was converted into a residence. A massive collapse occurred on Christmas Eve in 1852, destroying the south wall of the church and some of the monastery.

Next to the abbey lies Dunbrody Castle and a visitor centre, hear you can gain access to the castle gardens. These feature an intricate yew hedge maze called the Dunbrody Abbey Maze. Made up of 1,500 yew trees and gravel paths, it is one of the only two full-size mazes in Ireland. You’ll also find a fun mini-golf course and plenty of places to sit and enjoy a picnic. 

But if you rather someone else looks after the food, Gretta’s Tea Rooms produce home cooking at its finest with a selection of freshly baked cakes daily.

The visitor centre is also packed with locally produced plants and crafts for sale throughout the summer.

There is ample car parking and disabled access.

Opening Times:

May to September – 11.00am to 5.30pm and in July and August closing time is extended to 6.00pm.

October to April – Closed