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Inside the Hook Lighthouse Tower

Access to the 800-year-old tower is by guided tour only. You climb 115 spiral steps through thick medieval walls to reach the top balcony.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Built between 1210 and 1230 by William Marshal, the 35-meter (115-foot) limestone tower is the second oldest operating lighthouse in the world. It is the oldest with its original intact tower. The standard guided tour takes about 45 minutes.

You must book a guided tour to enter the tower. Tower tours are paid and run by Hook Heritage; check hookheritage.ie for current prices. Make sure you wear flat, comfortable walking shoes for the climb.

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Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

115 Spiral Steps

115 steps10 mins

This medieval anti-clockwise stone staircase is built directly inside the 4-meter thick walls. Take your time and hold the handrails while climbing. The stone steps are well-worn and uneven.

A colorful trolley bus parked near a white lighthouse and a red-roofed building.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

The Monk's Chamber

Hologram exhibit10 mins

This thick-walled chamber features a life-size hologram of St. Dubhán. He tells the story of the 5th-century monks who lit warning fires on the headland. Listen closely to the atmospheric audio-visual presentation.

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Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

William Marshal's Chamber

13th-century history10 mins

This historic room highlights the 13th-century knight who built the tower to guide ships to New Ross. Notice the original 13th-century fireplace built right into the chamber walls.

A small boat named 'Ruth' moving towards Portland Head Light.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
04

Viewing Balcony

360-degree views15 mins

The top level of the tower sits 35 meters high. It offers a 360-degree view across Wexford, Waterford, and the Celtic Sea. Hold onto your hats, as the sea breeze can be exceptionally strong.

Book a Tower Tour

A black and white lighthouse surrounded by green grass and wildflowers.
Skip the Line: Hook Lighthouse Entrance Ticket and Guided Tour45 min 4.9 (546)from $16
guided tour ticketfrom $16 on Viator
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