The John Roberts Weekend Festival is an event with a difference. Waterford city celebrates the life and works of architect John Roberts, from the 25th of April to the 27th of April. His name is always closely associated with Georgian architecture. Read on to find out more about this famous Waterford born architect…

The son of a builder - John had a little architectural training in London. His big break came in 1746 when Bishop Richard Chenevix asked him to complete the New Bishop’s Palace. Other achievements include designing and building both the city’s cathedrals (Catholic and Protestant), Waterford City Hall, the residence of William Morris (now the Harbour Commission Headquarters and Chamber of Commerce), Leper Hospital on John’s Hill and the Assembly rooms on the Mall (now the Theatre Royal and City Hall).

The event opens with the R.I.A.I. Irish Architecture Awards Exhibition at the Waterford Institute of Technology. Overall it’s an eventful 3 days with a very full programme of talks, lectures, tours, a wreathe laying ceremony, ecumenical choral service and an art exhibition. Some events are free of charge while others require an entrance fee. An all-in-ticket can be purchased from Garter Lane Arts Centre on O’Connell Street.

Got a little free time - why not make the most of your visit to Waterford City?
Seize this opportunity and take yourself off on one of the recommended scenic drives in the Comeragh Mountains, or the Dungarvan Copper and Coast or the East Waterford Gaultier Coast Drive. And for a little Irish language and culture you could take in the “The Ring Gaeltacht”, roughly 6 miles from Dungarvan.

Of course no visit to Waterford would be complete without experiencing the world famous Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre. Witness the fine art of crystal making and see beautiful displays of the end product.

Looking for somewhere to stay - check out Waterford accommodation.

As always if you need any help booking Waterford accommodation just give us a shout.