Easy hikes and walks around Waterford City

Situated in Fenor, the getaway to the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, Ballyscanlon Forest is a nice place for a brisk walk. Among the wildlife you can expect to see here are foxes, rabbits, hares, red squirrels, badgers and myriad bird species.

Ballyscanlon Lake is a pretty little lake in the Ballyscanlon Forest region. The trails here have the Comeragh Mountains and Monavillagh as a pleasing backdrop. The lake has associations with folklore, including one tale of a man travelling on horseback who saw a castle nearby. He neglected to ring the bell and was told by the man who came to the gate that if he had he would have been the happiest man who'd ever been born. However, as he had not rang the bell, the castle then disappeared, along with his horse. I guess the moral of the story is that, if there's a bell, ring it.

Perched high above Tramore Bay, Coastguard Cultural Centre Tramore combines history, culture and some of the finest coastal views in County Waterford. Housed within a beautifully restored former coastguard station dating back to 1874, the centre now hosts art exhibitions, live events, workshops and a welcoming café overlooking the sea. Its clifftop location along the Doneraile Walk makes it a perfect place to pause for coffee while soaking up panoramic views across the beach and Atlantic coastline.

Perched right beside the seafront, O'Shea's Hotel by the sea has been welcoming visitors since 1968 and remains one of the town’s classic seaside stays. Just steps from the long sandy beach and promenade, it’s an ideal base for coastal walks, surfing and exploring the Waterford coastline. Many rooms enjoy sea views, while the lively traditional bar often features music and a warm local atmosphere

Deer Park Forest Recreational Area offers a network of peaceful woodland trails overlooking the River Suir and Waterford Estuary. The forest paths wind through mature trees and rhododendron-lined tracks, with several clearings opening onto beautiful views across the water towards Waterford Castle and the surrounding countryside.

Elegant 19th-century cast-iron clock on a fountain base, located between Cathedral Square and the Medieval Museum. An elegant landmark in the Viking Triangle that enhances the historic atmosphere of the city center.

Portrait Mural (O’Connell Street, Waterford) Large, expressive portrait mural in the Waterford Cultural Quarter. The realistic face fills the facade and forms a striking artistic anchor point on O’Connell Street, a street known for its street art and creative atmosphere.

is the most authentic medieval museum in Ireland, fully embedded in real 12th–13th‑century spaces such as the Wine Vault and the Mayor’s Hall. It tells the story of Waterford as Ireland’s oldest city through highlights such as the Viking treasure, the Great Charter Roll (1373) and the city’s ceremonial robes.