Enniscorthy Vinegar Hill Walk
This walk takes you to Vinegar Hill in Enniscorthy, County Wexford.
You can start the walk from the car parking area to the north of the hill.
The ascent is gentle, making it accessible for most walkers, and typically takes about 15 minutes from the car park. Upon reaching the summit, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the River Slaney and the town of Enniscorthy, providing a picturesque backdrop for reflection and appreciation of the landscape. There's also the old ruined windmill to see here with more details below.
Vinegar Hill holds a prominent place in Irish history as the site of a significant battle during the 1798 Rebellion. On 21 June 1798, it was the scene of a major engagement between the United Irishmen and British Crown forces. Over 10,000 crown forces launched an attack on Vinegar Hill, which was then occupied by over 20,000 rebels and camp followers. This battle marked a turning point in the Irish Rebellion of 1798, as it was the last major attempt by the rebels to hold and defend ground against the crown forces.
Today, the summit features interpretive signage detailing the events of the battle, allowing visitors to connect with the past while enjoying the serene environment. The juxtaposition of tranquil scenery with poignant history makes a walk up Vinegar Hill a compelling experience for those interested in Ireland's natural and cultural heritage.
To continue your historical walking in the area head to Oulart Hill where another significant battle took place.
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Photos
On Vinegar Hill, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford. Enniscorthy is a historic town situated on the banks of the River Slaney in County Wexford, Ireland. Renowned for its picturesque setting, the town is surrounded by lush hills and fertile countryside, with Vinegar Hill providing a dramatic backdrop. Its history stretches back over 1,500 years, and it is one of the oldest towns in Ireland.
Windmill. The windmill atop Vinegar Hill is a historic tower mill constructed between 1600 and 1798. Originally serving as a corn mill, it is a three-storey cylindrical structure built from brick and dressed stone.
During the 1798 Rebellion, the windmill became a strategic command centre for the Irish rebels. They flew their banner from its heights, symbolising their defiance. Following the rebels' defeat by General Gerald Lake on 21 June 1798, the English Royal Standard replaced the Irish banner atop the windmill.
The windmill fell into disuse after the rebellion and was already in ruins by 1840. In the 1960s, concerns about its deteriorating condition led to public outcry, highlighting its historical importance. Today, the windmill is part of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre site and is designated as an Irish National Monument (number 392). It stands as a testament to the area's rich history and the enduring legacy of the 1798 Rebellion.
On Vinegar Hill, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford. The hill's terrain is charactersed by open grassland interspersed with native wildflowers, creating a vibrant tapestry during the blooming seasons. Birdwatchers may spot various species native to the Irish countryside, while the flora provides habitats for numerous insects, contributing to the area's biodiversity.
Enniscorthy & Blackstairs Mountains. Windmill Hill offers astonishing views in all directions. The site is 1km east of Enniscorthy. Looking west, Mount Leinster dominates (TV mast just visible on the summit). Parts of Enniscorthy in the middle foreground