Blackcurrant Farm Tour with Good Food Ireland in Wexford

Farm · Drinagh

Blackcurrant & Horse Breeding Farm Private Tour Wexford

Step onto Ireland's only commercial blackcurrant farm in Wexford with farmer Des Jeffares and friendly farm animals. Discover berry life cycles, wildlife habitats, and elite sport horses in this unique rural tour.

View experience
Duration1.5 hours
LocationDrinagh, County Wexford
OperatorGood Food Ireland
Price shownFrom $37

Adventure brief

Blackcurrant & Horse Breeding Farm Private Tour Wexford

Step onto Ireland's only commercial blackcurrant farm in Wexford with farmer Des Jeffares and friendly farm animals. Discover berry life cycles, wildlife habitats, and elite sport horses in this unique rural tour.

Located in the lush rural landscape of Drinagh, County Wexford, Good Food Ireland offers an engaging and uncommon journey through Ireland’s only commercial blackcurrant farm. Led by fourth-generation farmer Des Jeffares and his welcoming golden retrievers, this private tour blends agricultural tradition, wildlife observation, and equine excellence into a hands-on farm experience. Since 1955, the Jeffares family has cultivated Ireland’s richest blackcurrant fields, sustaining a unique crop vital to local heritage and biodiversity.

Visitors walk amid dense rows of glossy blackcurrant bushes, getting an intimate look at the plant’s life cycle—from budding to harvest—while learning how these berries support the wider ecosystem. Nestled within the farm’s patchwork of hedgerows and bird-friendly habitats, you’ll catch sight of wildlife like hedgehogs and native songbirds benefiting from sustainable farming practices. Beyond berries, the farm doubles as a boutique sport horse breeding operation.

The pastureland is home to mares, foals, and two charismatic donkeys—Tom and Sooty—whose gentle curiosity brightens the tour. Des shares stories of breeding for eventing and showjumping success, giving insight into a vibrant equestrian tradition deeply embedded in Wexford's culture. The experience ends with a fresh blackcurrant cocktail, crafted on-site, inviting guests to savor the flavor of the farm before they leave.

Combining heritage agriculture with hands-on learning and animal interaction, this tour offers a rare and authentic slice of Irish rural life. It’s a must for travelers interested in food culture, wildlife, and the rhythms of a working farm that remains a standout destination in Wexford’s outdoor experience landscape.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Wear sturdy walking shoes

    The tour involves walking through fields with uneven terrain; boots or hiking shoes are best.

    essential
  2. 02
    Prepare for variable weather

    Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear; Irish farm weather can shift quickly.

    essential
  3. 03
    Follow farm safety guidelines

    Stay with the group at all times and do not feed animals unless authorized by the guide.

    warning
  4. 04
    Bring a camera

    This scenic farm features wildlife, horses, and expansive views perfect for photos.

    info
DifficultyEasy
Duration1.5 hours
FitnessSuitable for individuals with basic mobility and average fitness due to moderate walking on farm paths.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Waterproof jacket

Protects from rain and damp conditions common on the farm.

springEssential
02

Sturdy walking shoes

Offers stable footing through uneven fields and pathways.

Essential
03

Sunhat and sunscreen

Shields skin from strong sunlight during midday tours.

summerEssential
04

Camera or smartphone

Captures scenic views of blackcurrant bushes and horses.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Hedgehog piles and bird boxes supporting farm biodiversity, Viewing Ballykelly Sport Horses’ breeding pastures with mares and foals

Wildlife

Local fauna

Hedgehog, Native songbirds

History

Historic heritage

The Jeffares family have grown blackcurrants on the Ballykelly farm since 1955, maintaining Ireland’s last remaining commercial crop.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

The farm integrates wildlife habitats such as bird boxes and hedgehog shelters, promoting biodiversity alongside sustainable agriculture.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Along blackcurrant rows, Near the horse paddocks, Stable yard with farm buildings backdrop
Subjects
Blackcurrant bushes, Foals and horses grazing, Farm dogs and donkeys
Best times
Golden hour at dusk, Morning light, Overcast midday for soft shadows

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult at all times due to farm safety.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

No, this tour requires walking on uneven farm terrain and is not suitable for those with impaired mobility.

Can I touch the horses or dogs?

You may touch animals only with Des’s permission and supervision to ensure safety for you and the animals.

Are food or drinks included in the tour?

A refreshing non-alcoholic blackcurrant cocktail made from the farm’s produce is served at the end of the tour.

Do I need to bring my own water?

It's recommended to bring water, as the tour involves walking outdoors for 1.5 hours.

How many people are on each tour?

Group size is limited to provide an intimate, private experience on the farm.

Good Food Ireland

Blackcurrant Farm Tour with Good Food Ireland in Wexford