Reginald’s Tower stands as a remarkable testament to Waterford’s layered history, where Viking roots and Norman power converge. Built by the Anglo-Normans in the early 13th century, it replaced an earlier Viking wooden fortification dating back to 914 AD. Its name honors Ragnall MacGillemaire (Reginald), a Hiberno-Norse ruler who once governed Waterford and was later captured by the Normans.

The tower’s strategic significance became evident during the 1170 siege of Waterford, when Strongbow (Richard de Clare) captured it, marking the city’s fall to the Normans. Legend holds that the historic marriage between Strongbow and Aoife, daughter of the King of Leinster, took place in or near this very tower — an event that forever altered the course of Irish history.

Over the centuries, Reginald’s Tower served diverse purposes: it functioned as a mint under King John in 1210, as a royal arsenal and munitions store for English kings, and as a prison in the 19th century. In 1495, the tower’s cannons famously repelled the forces of the pretender Perkin Warbeck, an act that earned Waterford its enduring motto, Urbs Intacta Manet — “Waterford remains the unconquered city.”

Today, the tower houses the Waterford Viking Museum, one of the city’s Waterford Treasures heritage experiences. Inside, visitors can climb the winding spiral staircase through multiple floors of exhibits. Key highlights include the Waterford Kite Brooch (circa 1100), Viking weapon sets from local excavations, and the remnants of a 19th-century prison cell. On the north wall, visitors can still spot a cannonball from the 1650 siege led by Cromwell’s forces — a silent reminder of centuries of conflict.

A modern audio-visual exhibition on the upper floor vividly narrates Waterford’s evolution — from its Viking founding and Norman transformation to its rise as a medieval port of power. Reginald’s Tower remains a living link to the city’s founding story and a must-visit for history lovers exploring Ireland’s southeast.

By Foot:

• Located in the heart of Waterford’s Viking Triangle, easily accessible from the city center and surrounding attractions.

By Car:

• Approximately 2 hours from Dublin via the M9 motorway or 1.5 hours from Cork via the N25; nearby parking available along The Quay.

By Bus:

• Regular services connect Waterford with major cities like Dublin, Cork, and Kilkenny, stopping within walking distance of the tower.

• Combine your visit with the nearby Medieval Museum and Bishop’s Palace Museum for a full Waterford Treasures experience.

• Visit early morning or late afternoon for quieter exploration and ideal light for photography.

• The tower’s interior includes narrow staircases—comfortable shoes and caution are recommended.

• Audio-visual guides are available to enhance your understanding of Waterford’s Viking heritage. 

Admission Fee:

• Approx. €5 for adults, €3 for students and seniors, and free entry for children under 12 (may vary seasonally or by combined museum ticket).

Opening Time:

• Typically open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (hours may vary by season or public holidays).