View MapView Map
HomeDestinationsWexfordFernsFerns Castle
Ferns Castle
Ferns, Co. Wexford
Family friendly
Rainy days
Ferns Castle, located in The Square, Ferns, County Wexford, is an Anglo-Norman fortress dating back to 1220. The castle has a magnificent vaulted ceiling, considered to be the finest of its kind in Ireland, and is a popular visitor attraction on any holiday in Wexford.

An Anglo-Norman fortress in north County Wexford, Ferns Castle was built in the 13th century, possibly by William Marshal, First Earl of Pembroke. Only half of the castle now remains, but a modern visitor centre located on-site features information about the historical site as well as the well-known Ferns Tapestry.

Depicting the history of Ferns in stitch work, from the arrival of Saint Aidan in 598 AD to the coming of the Normans in 1169, the Ferns Tapestry remains a valuable historical artefact today.

Originally Ferns Castle formed a square, with large corner towers; today the most complete tower contains a fine circular chapel, with carved ornaments. The tower also features several original fireplaces and a vaulted basement, while archaeological excavations have revealed a rock-cut ditch outside the castle walls.

Tips from locals

Visit and view the Ferns Tapestries in the attached Visitor Centre.

Contact details
Ferns Upper, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 1.5 hours here.

Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.