Must-See Attractions
Brimming with must see locations, Avonmore is perfectly positioned to explore Youghal Heritage Town and its environs.
Youghal Beaches
Youghal is in the enviable position in that it can boast 4 beaches, each with its own special magic. All a definite “must see”.
Front Strand Beach & Claycastle Blue Flag Beach are 2 sandy beaches located side by side and within walking distance of Youghal Town. Front Strand Beach is in an elevated sheltered position with a promenade and steps leading on to the soft fine sand.
Continue walking along the shore from Claycastle Blue Flag Beach, and you will come to Redbarn Blue Flag Beach. Redbarn Blue Flag Beach is a mixture of sand, pebble and some shell. It makes for great swimming, walking and beach fun. Ballyvergen Marsh is nearby and of huge ornithological and botanical significance – listen for the birdsong.
Youghal is quite unique in that it also has a beautiful beach in the centre of town. The traditional bathing area of Mall Beach is nestled between Youghal Visitor Centre and Youghal Town Hall on The Mall. It maybe small but hugely popular in the summertime and is the sandiest beach known.
Regal Cinema
One of Ireland’s oldest cinemas, the Regal Cinema in Youghal reopened its doors in summer 2018 following a year-long renovation. The refurbished cinema has 2 screens showing the latest movies and old classics with modern 4K digital technology. The stunning cinema also has a luxury mezzanine level in screen one, a multi-purpose space for events and, for a truly unique experience, cinema goers and walk-in guests alike can enjoy a glass of wine in the new Regal Wine Bar & Café. Built in 1936, many of the cinemas original architectural features have been meticulously restored and some eye-catching, art deco style touches added throughout making this a wonderfully nostalgic cinema experience and a certain “must see”.
Youghal Clock Gate Tower
A visit to Youghal Clock Gate Tower is by way of guided tour where our storytellers journey with you throughout the building. Regaling stories of pain, tragedy and rebellion, you will, however also hear tales of love, friendship and generosity.
Visiting the must see Youghal Clock Gate Tower is more than just a tour. It is the story of 700 years of life in Youghal and the impact the Clock Tower had on the lives of so many of its people.
St. Mary’s Collegiate Church
800 year old St Mary’s Collegiate Church, is a national monument of international significance. It is nestled under the protective arms of Youghal Town Walls and the Raleigh Quarter of Youghal. It is surely a tourist attraction like no other.
On a visit to St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, Youghal, its history is tangible – with magnificent architecture. The 13th century oak roof structure together with the fascinating plaques and effigies make this a unique jewel. With this wonderful structure, St. Mary’s Collegiate Church places us in times of great historic events and in eras of historic figures. e.g Sir, Richard Boyle – 1st Earl of Cork, Oliver Cromwell and Sir Walter Raleigh.
This must see medieval Church also hosts the magnificent interpretive installation “Voices of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church. This addition offers a visitor experience truly unique. With a choice of three types of tour, each unique, informative and entertaining, the visitor’s interest is captured immediately. Guests to St. Mary’s Collegiate Church may choose their own manner of tour or indeed undertake all three.
Guided Walking Tour
Walk in the footsteps of history in Youghal Heritage Town…
Allow our Town Crier, Clifford Winser, fill you in on the fascinating historic facts, fables and foibles as he guides you through our Youghal Heritage Town. On this tour you will be introduced to many hidden gems and surprises that visitors often miss.
You may prefer to take this tour at your own pace. The colourful Youghal Heritage Town Map with all the interesting details on reverse will direct you to the historic points of interest and heritage attractions. Alternatively discover the history of Youghal with a “Happy Feet” storyteller who will take you on a memorable journey through time and town. Hear tales of witchcraft, piracy, famine and espionage, as you walk in the footsteps of the characters who shaped the town.
Youghal town has a unique history spanning centuries and has stories to match.
The Eco Boardwalk
Youghal Eco-Boardwalk is a 12.25 kilometre hardwood panelled beach walk-way, stretching from Front Strand Beach to Redbarn Beach. It is totally disability-access friendly with interspersed seating along the route, making it ideal for wheelchair users and child buggies. This wonderful amenity, whatever the season, is the perfect place to takes one’s daily constitutional, getting lungfulls of fresh sea air. It makes for the perfect warm-down spot following an energizing workout at the state of the art gym at the adjacent Aura Leisure Centre. Alternatively, there is a sporting excursion awaiting nearby at Claycastle Pitch and Putt club.
Ardmore Coastal Walk
Amazing nearby coastal walks have become a true favourite for visitors and locals alike.
Ardmore. This walk brings you on cliff-top paths, minor roads and laneways. You will pass the Early Christian St Declan’s Well, Ardmore Round Tower which is one of the best preserved in Ireland. In addition, the 12th Century Cathedral and a lookout post are set amonst a variety of flora, fauna and birdlife. The coastal birds, Rock Pipits, Pheasant, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon swoop along some of the most stunning coastal scenery.
Ballycotton Cliff Walk
The Ballycotton Cliff Walk is from Ballycotton village to Ballyandreen beach along a cliff track. Here you are flanked by meadows on one side and the ocean on the other. It starts at the end of Ballycotton village (at the “Y” in the road take the right up the hill, the left takes you to the pier). The walk extends over 5 miles on a foot worn track along the cliff face. You’ll enjoy the stunning views and a break as you pass Ballytrasna beach. There are many stiles to cross on the route (so unquestionably not suitable for bikes or buggies).
Knockadoon Coastal Walk
Knockadoon is a small rural peninsula, close to the seaside town of Youghal in County Cork.
Take care, and watch out for walkers in particular, as you make your way through the narrow roads to the pier.
From there, you have a choice of two walks, the Capel Way Coastal Trail towards the west (made up of two loops, 2.5km and 6km) and towards the east, you may take the Barry’s Cove Way.
From the pier itself, you can look across to Youghal and you see more of that area if you take Barry’s Cove Way. On the other hand, if you head west, you’ll soon pass Capel Island, then an old Signal Tower. All the while, the ocean is to your left. Later again, views of Ballycotton and its lighthouse open up.
Walking on past the signal tower you eventually arrive at a small beach. Keep an eye out for “The Way of The Cross” – a coastal track with all the stations of the cross on view. You then have the option of circling around by way of the road or returning along the path you just walked.
On your return to the car you’ll be able to pick up a delicious meal of fresh fish and chips from the Lobster Pot, located on the pier for most of the year.
Youghal Golf Course
Widely regarded as one of the finest parkland golf courses in Cork, Youghal Golf Club offers you some of the most spectacular “must see” views the region has to offer overlooking Youghal Bay.
Located in East Cork, in close proximity to West Waterford, whether a professional or amateur golfer, Youghal Golf Club will present a stern challenge to your game.
The Mall Arts Centre
The Mall Arts Centre is a spectacularly sited 230-year-old riverside arts venue and is idyllic for every event imaginable. The first floor performance area has been completely renovated as a multi-purpose theatre and arts venue. The stage and performance area mainly holds theatre performances. However, dance, concerts, readings, exhibitions, workshops and public meetings are also staged throughout the year. The spectacular annual amateur musical week in May is a must see for all the locals. One of the most striking design features is the glass foyer area on the seafront linking the building with its outside decking terrace area. The Centre is located in the Historic Town Hall.
Youghal Town Walls
Dating back to at least 1250, Youghal Town Walls were built to preserve and protect our Town. They are particularly known for being the most intact and complete Town Walls in the Irish Republic. Approximately 12 feet high and 4 feet wide these walls surround our Medieval Town. Start walking from Myrtle Grove, once home to Sir, Walter Raleigh.
A Town Wall Walk is step back in time in the footsteps of the great, the good and the not so good, who forged our history. Access to the Walls is best achieved via the Raleigh Quarter, running west and curving south to the Iconic Clock Gate.
The Greenway
The 15 mile Youghal to Midleton Greenway is coming soon!
The Greenway is an exciting addition to Youghal’s growing attractions. The route runs along the old railway line, commencing at the disused railway station near Youghal Beach.
Ardmore Town
Ardmore (Irish: Aird Mhór, meaning “great height”) is an unmissable idyllic fishing village in County Waterford, not far from Youghal. It is believed to be the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland. Saint Declan lived in the region in the early 5th century, and Christianised the area before the coming of Saint Patrick. Boasting Ireland’s most spectacular setting, the Farmer’s Market takes place every Sunday during the summer months. The ocean as a backdrop makes for the perfect destination. The previously mentioned Coastal Walk is a must while taking in so many relics of an unrivaled history.
Lismore Town
Experience the heritage town of Lismore only 30 minutes drive from Youghal. You can only admire its lovely setting on the banks of the River Blackwater at the foot of the Knockmealdown mountains. Take a guided tour of the historic town with the Lismore Heritage Centre and explore its many gems. This includes a visual reality tour of the neighbouring medieval Lismore Cathedral. Alternatively, escape with friends from one of the challenging rooms at the Robert Boyle Escape Rooms. In addition, canoe hire on the pretty river is also available. During the summer months don’t miss the Sunday farmer’s market set in the entrance to the castle gardens.
Youghal Visitor Centre
At Youghal’s Visitor Centre, the knowledgeable staff will provide visitors with information on places to go, do and see. The centre also hosts a very elegant retail section where you may pick up some souvenirs and postcards etc. Pick up a journal in order to record your visit to Youghal in Ireland’s Ancient East
The adjoining Heritage Centre exhibits artefacts, images and models, illustrating the history of Youghal. Learn about the historic figures that formed this history and the way of life. Unquestionably making a nice little forerunner to a tour of Youghal Heritage Town.