Viking Triangle
The Viking Triangle, Waterford, Waterford
Viking walls once marked the boundary of this historic district of Waterford. Though the walls no longer stand, the past still echoes loudly, with centuries-old landmarks such as the 13th-century Reginald’s Tower and attractions including the Medieval Museum painting an evocative picture of Waterford in times gone by.
The basics
The Viking Triangle is home to three museums—Reginald’s Tower, the Medieval Museum, and Bishop’s Palace—collectively known as the Waterford Treasures. Exhibitions in Reginald’s Tower detail the city’s Viking and early medieval history, while the Medieval Museum documents Waterford in the Middle Ages. Bishop’s Palace covers the period from 1700 through to the 1970s.
You can join a walking tour around the lanes of the Viking Triangle, some led by costumed actors. Guided tours often incorporate visits to the 13th-century Choristers’ Hall and 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault (both part of the Medieval Museum), as well as other key landmarks such as the ruins of the 13th-century Franciscan Friary, which hosts a 30-minute virtual reality experience in a replica Viking house.
Things to know before you go
*Restrooms can be found in all Waterford Treasures museums. *Bishop’s Palace has a café, and plenty of alternative dining options dot the streets of the Viking Triangle. *Tourist information offices are situated on the Mall and at Parade Quay. *The Medieval Museum and Bishop’s Palace are wheelchair-accessible. The upper floors of Reginald’s Tower are not.
How to get there
The Viking Triangle is in the center of Waterford, just south of the River Suir. Walking from Waterford train station will take about 10–15 minutes. Upon exiting the station, cross Rice Bridge then turn left onto Merchants Quay.
When to get there
Summer (June–September) is high tourist season in Waterford. This is when the Viking Triangle is busiest. It’s also when the district is most lively, with events, including outdoor art exhibitions, the Waterford Viking Marathon, and Spraoi International Street Arts Festival, taking place. The museums are quietest on weekday mornings.
The House of Waterford Crystal
Sitting at the periphery of the Viking Triangle is the House of Waterford Crystal, the manufacturing facility of the world-famous Waterford Crystal. Founded in 1783, Waterford Crystal is known for its elegant glassware and decorative pieces. Join a tour of the factory to see master craftspeople blowing and manipulating glass into intricate and delicate shapes.
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