New Ross

Market town in County Wexford, Republic of Ireland, on the River Barrow, 37 km/23 mi west of Wexford town; population (2002) 4,800. New Ross retains its medieval appearance but is now a thriving industrial centre. The main employers are fish exporters and haulage and shipping companies, but there are also many small manufacturers.

New Ross was founded in the 13th century by William the Marshall, 1st Earl of Pembroke, and in the medieval period was an important seaport. It was the scene of many conflicts from the 14th to the 16th century and of rebel resistance against the British in 1798 by the United Irishmen. The Gothic ruins of St Mary's Church, founded by William the Marshall, can still be seen.