Overview
Waterford Treasures Museum is a unique cultural hub occupying five distinct museums within the heart of the Viking Triangle, Waterford’s medieval quarter. Housed in a beautifully restored Granary on Merchants Quay, the complex tells the story of Ireland’s oldest city from its Viking foundations through the medieval period to the modern era of glass‑making, silversmithing and horology. Visitors can wander at their own pace or join a 45‑minute guided tour that weaves together the narratives of the five venues.
History & Background
The site sits on the historic quays where Viking settlers first established a trading hub in 914 AD. Reginald’s Tower, the city’s oldest civic structure, later became the focal point for the Viking Museum. Over the centuries Waterford grew into a major Norman port, a centre for glass‑making and, uniquely, a medieval wine‑importing hub. Evidence of this wine trade is displayed in the Medieval Museum’s wine‑vault exhibition, which was uncovered during 2010 restorations of the Bishop’s Palace.
The museum complex was created to celebrate Waterford’s rich heritage and has earned accolades such as All‑Ireland Museum of the Year (1999/2000) and the Irish American Cultural Institute Heritage Award (2000). Its collections are built around three national monuments and two medieval buildings that have been incorporated into the modern exhibition spaces. Highlights include the only complete medieval longbow in Britain or Ireland, a full set of pre‑Reformation vestments, and a world‑class silver collection.
What to See & Do
| Museum | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Reginald’s Tower | Viking treasures, warfare artefacts, everyday items of Hiberno‑Norse life |
| Medieval Museum | 13th‑century Choristers’ Hall, 1736 city painting by William Van Der Hagen, Great Charter Roll (1372), complete set of pre‑Reformation vestments (1480) |
| Bishop’s Palace | Masterpieces in Glass exhibition, Georgian interiors, 18th‑century silverware |
| Irish Museum of Time | Rare longcase clocks, table watches, a global collection of horological pieces spanning 5,000 years |
| Irish Silver Museum | One of the world’s largest Irish silver collections, illuminated medieval charters, 1361‑1649 Great Parchment Book |
Beyond the permanent displays, the complex features seven audio‑visual presentations and three interactive pods. Highlights include a virtual Viking boat voyage, a re‑enactment of the 1170 marriage of Strongbow and Aoife, and a 3‑D VR experience titled King of the Vikings that recreates a Viking house. Sound guides are offered in six languages and are included in the admission price.
Events & Exhibitions
- Wine Vault Exhibition (Heritage Week) – A temporary display in the Bishop’s Palace wine vault explores Waterford’s millennium‑long relationship with wine, from Roman amphorae to medieval customs. Talks and tastings are scheduled throughout Heritage Week (usually in May).
- Seasonal Audio‑Visual Shows – The museum rotates themed AV presentations, covering topics such as the Viking settlement, the city’s glass‑making legacy and the evolution of Irish horology.
- Guided Walking Tour of the Viking Triangle – Daily tours (11:45 am and 1:45 pm, March‑October) start at the museum and lead visitors past Reginald’s Tower, Christ Church Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace. Cost €7 per person and includes a complimentary audio guide.
Practical Information
Opening hours (subject to seasonal change):
- Summer (June‑August): Mon‑Sat 09:00‑18:00, Sun 11:00‑18:00
- Rest of the year: Mon‑Fri 10:00‑17:00, Sat 10:00‑17:00, Sun 11:00‑17:00
Admission (2026 rates):
- Adults €7
- Students & Seniors €5
- Families €15‑21 (depending on size)
- Children under 5 free
Parking – Limited on‑street parking is available on the quays. The nearby Waterford City Car Park (The Mall) offers paid spaces within a short walk.
Accessibility – Fully wheelchair accessible with level entrances and lifts. Sound guides in six languages are included.
Facilities – Restrooms, a café serving light meals and coffee, a gift shop, and a function gallery are on‑site.
Group bookings – Discounts for groups of 10 +; arrange in advance via bookings@waterfordcouncil.ie.
Getting there – The museum is a 5‑minute walk from Waterford’s main bus and rail stations. Regular city bus routes stop at the nearby Quay stop.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the Viking Triangle, consider a quick visit to the adjoining Bishop’s Palace Museum for its Georgian interiors and glass exhibition, or stroll to Christ Church Cathedral just a few minutes away. The lively waterfront promenade and the historic Reginald’s Tower also make for pleasant photo‑ops.
Contact
- Phone: +353 51 304500
- Email: mail@waterfordtreasures.com
- Website: https://www.waterfordtreasures.com