Eat Your Way East: Hook Lighthouse and Local Brew

Day 1

2 hrs 27 mins / 99 km / 62 miles

Fearless ramblers, Kevin and Ellius kicked their day off with a delicious sampling of delights to come at one of Ireland’s fastest growing micro-breweries.

First on the itinerary was Metalman Brewing Co. in Waterford City. Visitors can meet its founders and genuine beer lovers Grainne and Tim Walsh, as well as tasting their pale ale from the very first Irish craft brewery canning line.

This route then took these intrepid travellers on a ferry across the River Suir. The crossing links the fishing villages of Passage East in Waterford and Wexford’s Ballyhack, and is a thrilling way to travel. Once back on dry land, it’s only a 25-minute drive to the jewel in south Wexford’s crown: Hook Head. Sitting majestically on the peninsula’s southern tip, you’ll find the world’s oldest working lighthouse. A tour of this fantastic structure will guide visitors to the top of a winding staircase, where they can enjoy amazing views out to sea.

This route then took these intrepid travellers on a ferry across the River Suir. The crossing links the fishing villages of Passage East in Waterford and Wexford’s Ballyhack, and is a thrilling way to travel. Once back on dry land, it’s only a 25-minute drive to the jewel in south Wexford’s crown: Hook Head. Sitting majestically on the peninsula’s southern tip, you’ll find the world’s oldest working lighthouse. A tour of this fantastic structure will guide visitors to the top of a winding staircase, where they can enjoy amazing views out to sea.

The next port of call was YellowBelly Brewery, located in the basement of popular Wexford haunt, Simon Lambert & Sons Pub. Head Brewer Declan Nixon and Director Nicky Lambert have certainly been busy; since 2015, they’ve brewed 100 different beers, with a carefully chosen 13 being selected for nationwide release. Visitors can taste the team’s award-winning core range, including the delicious YellowBelly Lager and Citra Pale Ale brews. Those exploring this part of the country can finish up the day with dinner in nearby Bugler Doyles where there’s no shortage of atmosphere, chatty locals, and cosy snugs in which to enjoy a nightcap.

Keep following Kevin and Ellius’ adventure by checking out their other fantastic itineraries where they sample the local brew of Meath’s lush Boyne Valley, meet some of the talented craftspeople of Ireland’s Ancient East and discover tasty treats in Wicklow.