Direction Ireland

Reginalds Tower

Southeast Ireland | County Waterford

Reginald's Tower is oldest and most characteristic building of Waterford. It was built in 1003 by Reginald (or Ragnall), the viking leader of Waterford. Initially it was a wooden building being a part of the defensive wall of the area known as the Viking Triangle. In 12th century, when Anglo Normans took control over the city, tower was re-built, wood was replaced by stone, and two more levels were added in 15th century, since remains unchanged. The round tower is 17m high and has diameter of 13m. A spiral staircase ascends within the walls, which are 3m thick at the base, tapering at the top to 2m. There is walking space between conical roof and tower's wall, creating additional defensive feature. During its existence Reginald's Tower had many different functions and have long and interesting history. It was place of historical marriage of Richard de Clare (nicknamed "Strongbow") with Aoife MacMurrough. The mint was established here twice, first in 1185, and then in 1463. Also twice it became a temporary royal seat, by hosting King John and Richard II. It was a military storehouse, a prison, and since the mid-19th century until 1954 it was residence for Chief Constable of Waterford. Since 1955, converted to museum which reveals the whole history of the tower and is a home for Viking Exhibiton, which holds a lot of interesting props and information from VIking Era of Watreford.

• OPENING HOURS :
  • Jan - Mid March:
    • Wed - Sun: 9.30 - 17
  • Mid March - Dec:
    • Daily: 9.30 - 17.30
  • 24th Dec - 6th Jan: Closed
  • Last admissions 30 mins before closing
• TICKET PRICES :
  • Adult: €4
  • Senior/Group: €3
  • Child/Student: €2
  • Family: €10
• CONTACT :
  • Phone: +353 51 304 220
• CAR PARK :
  • City car park