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Newtown
About Newtown
The Newtown area of Waterford is full of old-world charm and historic buildings. A stone’s throw from the River Suir, it is one of the city’s most prestigious residential locations, with wide streets lined with attractive Victorian and Georgian houses. In fact, it has more listed properties than any other road in the county.
Newtown is a 10-minute walk from the city centre, and just over 1.5 kilometres from University Hospital Waterford.
Four of the city’s secondary schools are close by, including the historic Newtown School, founded in 1798 and whose former students include Academy Award winning actor Ralph Fiennes and singer Sinead O’Connor.
The People’s Park, located adjacent to the schools, is family-friendly with a skate park and large kids play area. The park is popular with walkers and joggers who enjoy the flat paths through the 16 acre site.
A 15-minute drive east, leads to the scenic coastal village of Dunmore East, famed for its tranquil coves, quality seafood restaurants and picturesque cliff walk.
There are a number of supermarkets close by including Ardkeen Quality Food Stores – a firm favourite with discernible shoppers who enjoy the finest quality food and wine.
History and Culture
Newtown is one of the most historic parts of the city, as is evident from the abundance of period properties in the area.
Famed architect John Roberts was born in Waterford in 1712 and is well known for the properties he designed in the area, including Newtown House in 1786. This later became Newtown School, a Quaker School. The Quakers first settled in Waterford in 1655 and are responsible for building many of the most notable buildings in the city, including The Granville Hotel on the Quay and Strangman’s Brewery in Mary Street.
As Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford boasts over 1,000 years of rich history. Viking raiders first established a settlement near Waterford in 853. They left a considerable mark on Waterford, evident in the spectacular Reginald’s Tower. Named after Viking ruler, Ragnall, who resided there during the 10th century. The tower is a tourism hot spot and the surrounding area an important cultural and recreational centre.
Education
Newtown School (secondary and primary), welcomes students of all religious backgrounds and those of none.
St Angela’s Secondary and Primary Schools offer education to girls from junior infants to 6th Class.
De La Salle College accommodates over 1000 boys and Waterpark College is a co-educational secondary school. Both schools are located on the Park Road in the city along with their primary school equivalents.
The Presentation and Our Lady of Mercy secondary schools are Catholic girl schools.
St. Paul’s Community College and Abbey Community College are co-educational, inter denominational secondary schools.
Gaelcholaiste Phortlairge is an Irish speaking secondary school on the outskirts of the city. Its primary feeder school is located close by.
Dine and Drink
Waterford City, described as ‘foodie heaven’ has a large choice of award-winning restaurants, bars and cafes.
Closeby, Café Luna in Ardkeen Shopping Centre is a popular lunch meeting spot.
Grow HQ, well-known as the setting for the RTE programme, Grow, Cook, Eat is also within walking distance. Here diners enjoy high-quality, seasonal dishes crafted from produce grown in the adjacent gardens.
The Apple Market area of the city is a lively destination for a night out. Geoff’s is a long establish pub serving bar food. Heery’s and the Kasbah are lively music venues popular with students and younger revellers.
Emiliano’s Italian Restaurant is renowned for its lively Italian waiters and good quality Italian fayre. Pizza and pasta are firm favourites here.
Momo Restaurant on Patrick Street offers the best in international cuisine. Kyoto brings Japanese and Asian cuisine to the heart of Waterford.
Burzza is famous for quality burgers and pizza.
La Boheme on George’s Street, is full of rustic French charm combined with modern cuisine. An extensive wine menu and knowledgeable sommelier add to the experience.
For coffee lovers, Arch Coffee is the destination of choice.