Irish Silver Museum

Overview

The Irish Silver Museum sits proudly in Waterford’s historic Viking Triangle, occupying the medieval wine vault of The Deanery – a stone‑capped space that dates back to the 1440s. Opened in June 2021 by Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe, the museum houses one of the largest collections of Irish silver in the world. Its galleries trace the metal’s journey from the Viking age, through the Georgian era, and up to Ireland’s entry into the European Economic Community in 1973. The museum is part of the Waterford Treasures suite, meaning a single ticket grants access to five award‑winning museums across the city.

History of the Collection

Silver has long been a symbol of wealth and exchange in Ireland. The museum’s core collection was made possible by the generosity of the Frisby family, who donated many heirloom pieces. Highlights include a silver coin minted in modern‑day Iraq in 742 AD that arrived in Waterford via Viking trade routes, the iconic Waterford kite brooch, a sword presented to the city by Edward IV, and a silver cup that once belonged to Dean Jonathan Swift. The displays also explore the social rituals surrounding tea and coffee in the 17th century, showing how a simple cup could become a status symbol. Rare examples of work by 18th‑century female silversmiths underscore the often‑overlooked contributions of women to Irish metalwork.

What to See & Do

Beyond the static displays, the museum offers a live goldsmith workshop where Paul Sullivan demonstrates traditional techniques, allowing guests to watch contemporary jewellery being forged. Visitors receive a 10 % discount in his on‑site shop.

Events & Workshops

• Maritime Gallery Project – Open Days (May 9‑17, 10:00‑17:00) – part of a permanent maritime gallery development.
• Seasonal themed talks on Irish tea & coffee culture, Viking trade, and women silversmiths (check the website for dates).
• Family‑friendly craft sessions during school holidays, where children can try simple metal‑working techniques under supervision.

Practical Information

• Opening hours: Mon‑Thu 09:30‑17:00, Fri 09:30‑17:00, Sat 10:00‑17:00, Sun/Bank Holiday 11:00‑17:00 (times may vary for special events).
• Admission: €5 adults, €3 concessions, free under 5. The Freedom of Waterford ticket includes entry to all five Waterford Treasures museums and offers a small discount on the goldsmith shop.
• Accessibility: Ground‑floor galleries and workshop are wheelchair‑friendly; a lift provides access to the upper exhibition space. Tactile floor indicators assist visually‑impaired visitors.
• Facilities: Restrooms on each floor, baby‑changing facility near the café, a small café serving tea, coffee and light bites, and a gift shop with reproductions and contemporary jewellery.
• Guided tours: Free audio guides are available at reception; scheduled guided tours run twice daily during peak season (check the website for exact times).
• Transport:
  • Public transport: Bus routes 1, 2 and 3 stop within a two‑minute walk of Cathedral Square.
  • Train: Waterford Railway Station is a 10‑minute walk.
  • Car: Limited street parking; the nearby Waterford City Car Park (off‑street) is a short 5‑minute walk.
  • Taxi/Uber: Readily available from the city centre.
• Nearby attractions: A short walk brings you to the Bishop’s Palace Museum and the Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum – perfect for a day‑long cultural itinerary.

Getting There

• Address: The Deanery, Cathedral Square, Waterford City, Co. Waterford
• Public transport: Bus routes 1, 2, and 3 stop within a two‑minute walk.
• Car: Limited street parking; the nearby Waterford City Car Park (off‑street) is a short 5‑minute walk.

For up‑to‑date opening times, ticket information, and special events, visit the official site: Waterford Treasures – Irish Silver Museum.