The Spinnaker · Dunmore East

24 Hours in Waterford — Where to Eat

Dunmore East village, Co. Waterford
Dunmore East village, Co. Waterford · Photo: Albert Bridge, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

If you've got 24 hours in Waterford and you want the meals to land right, the route that works is city in the morning, Dunmore East for the afternoon and evening. Here's the food-led shape of that day.

Morning in Waterford City

Coffee in the city centre. The Viking Triangle — Reginald's Tower, Bishop's Palace, the Medieval Museum. A late breakfast or early lunch in the city. The city has plenty of cafe-and-lunch options.

Early afternoon — drive to Dunmore East

Twelve kilometres on the R684, ~20 minutes. Coffee or a half-pint as a settling-in at the harbour. Walk the cliff path while the afternoon is open.

Dinner at The Spinnaker

The proper sit-down meal of the day. Ring (051) 383 133 ahead — particularly if it's a Friday or Saturday. The Spinnaker is the village bar Peter is now running, doing local seafood and bar food properly.

Stay or drive back?

If you've got the option, stay in Dunmore East — village B&Bs and small hotels mean you can walk back from The Spinnaker rather than drive. Morning coffee at the harbour before the road home.

Book a table at The Spinnaker

Peter is doing food himself — fresh, simple, local. Ring or email direct, no app, no fee.

Quick questions

Should I base myself in Waterford City or Dunmore East?

City for restaurant variety and museums; Dunmore East for atmosphere and the proper coastal-Ireland evening. Many travellers split the day across both.

How long is the drive from Waterford City to Dunmore East?

About 20 minutes via the R684 — 12km.

Is there a bus from Waterford to Dunmore East?

Yes — Bus Éireann route 360 runs the route, daily but not frequent. Driving gives flexibility.