In the seaside village of Courtown, on Wexford’s north coast, is a place doing genuinely important work that you can be part of for an afternoon. Seal Rescue Ireland is the only dedicated seal rescue and rehabilitation centre in the country, taking in sick, injured and orphaned seal pups from all around the Irish coast, nursing them back to health, and releasing them to the wild. A visit is equal parts heart-warming and educational — and a hit with children.
Rescue, Rehab, Release
The centre rescues seal pups in difficulty from beaches across Ireland, treats them in its on-site hospital and pools, and returns the recovered animals to the sea. It is a charity, and the work is real — the seals you meet are patients, not exhibits. The story of each pup’s rescue and recovery is what gives a visit its emotional pull.
Visiting and Experiences
Guided tours introduce you to the current residents and explain the rescue process and the threats facing seals in Irish waters. For a closer look, the centre runs special experiences — including feed-and-enrichment and behind-the-scenes rehab sessions — that get you nearer the work and directly support the charity. Booking these in advance is essential.
Practical Information
Seal Rescue Ireland is in Courtown, near Gorey in north Wexford, around 40 minutes from Wexford town. Tours and experiences must usually be booked in advance, and the schedule varies seasonally — check the website before visiting. As a charity, admission and experience fees go directly toward the seals’ care. Allow an hour or more, and combine it with a walk on Courtown Beach or through Courtown Woods.
This is one of our Top 15 Things to Do in Wexford.