Youghal is a seaside town steeped in history, heritage, and coastal charm, promising a memorable experience for all who visit.
Historic Landmarks and Cultural Heritage
Youghal is rich in history, landmarks include the 13th century St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, the preserved Youghal Town Walls, the iconic Youghal Clock Gate Tower, with ties to notable figures such as Oliver Cromwell, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Richard Boyle.
Outdoor Activities and Beach Fun
Youghal is perfect for outdoor activities, explore the countryside on foot or by bike, or take advantage of 5 sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Dining and Entertainment
The town offers a diverse range of dining and entertainment options. From traditional Irish pubs to contemporary restaurants and cafes, there’s something to satisfy all tastes. Year-round events and festivals add to the lively local culture.
Accommodation in Youghal
When looking for accomodation in Youghal you can choose from a cozy bed and breakfast or guesthouse to self-catering or a luxurious hotel.
Sporting Passion Through the Lens – David Keane Wows Full House at Youghal Film and Photo Museum. By Michael Hussey
The Youghal Film and Photo Museum was filled to capacity on Thursday evening, January 15th, as sports and photography enthusiasts gathered for a special presentation by acclaimed freelance photographer David Keane. The event, hosted by the Youghal Camera Club (YCC) in collaboration with museum curator Ed Guiry, proved to be one of the standout cultural evenings of the new year in Youghal.
From the very start, David captured the audience’s attention with his easy manner and captivating stories from behind the lens. He began by recalling his very first photograph — a snapshot of racing legend Lester Piggott taken during a family day at the races. “What a way to start!” David said, laughing, as he looked back on what became a lifelong passion for both sport and photography.
Throughout the evening, a stunning collection of David’s images lit up the big screen — dramatic moments of horse racing and point-to-point action, local GAA contests, athletics, and boxing. Each photo carried a story, often told with humour and heart. One memorable series showed a spectacular race tumble, only for a jockey to land gracefully on his feet — prompting the quip from the rider, “De ye get that?” The crowd erupted in laughter.
David’s work has featured widely in both local and national press, with a long association with the Irish Examiner and Evening Echo. He has photographed some of Ireland’s great sporting icons, including Sonia O’Sullivan, Katie Taylor, Rachael Blackmore, and Davy Russell, bringing their energy and emotion vividly to life through his lens.
Alongside showcasing his portfolio, David shared valuable insights into his technique — from mastering delayed shutter speeds to combining flash with movement for expressive, action-filled compositions. His advice to the keen photographers present was practical and encouraging: seek out local sporting events, mind your safety, and always look for the story within the shot.
As the evening drew to a close, attendees enjoyed tea, biscuits, and lively conversation, reflecting on a night that blended artistry, sport, and storytelling in perfect harmony.
YCC members and guests alike left inspired by David’s images and his evident love for Irish sport — from the greats of horse racing to grassroots GAA heroes. It was, as one attendee put it, “a night where every photo spoke a thousand words.”
Photo 1: Freelance photographer David Keane with Youghal Film and Photo Museum (YFPM) curator Ed Guiry.
Photo 2/3: David Keane sharing his life through the lens at the YFPM event. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
A great night, and a great speaker! 👏
ST RAPHAELS JUNCTION UPGRADE CONTINUES – KEY DATES ANNOUNCED
Official confirmation has come that the St Raphaels Junction scheme in Youghal is moving forward with important safety improvements designed to benefit both drivers and pedestrians.
The next stage includes construction of a TABLE TOP RAMP at the junction of BAWNMORE ROAD, GOLF LINKS ROAD, WINDMILL HILL and RAHEEN PARK (ARDRATH PARK), a ramp at the zebra crossing by SOUTH ABBEY NS, and resurfacing along a section of BAWNMORE ROAD.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT will be in place BETWEEN 09:15 AND 17:30 FROM TUESDAY JANUARY 20th TO FRIDAY JANUARY 23rd. Local residents’ access will be maintained throughout the works. For questions, contact sustainabletravelunit@corkcoco.ie.
These measures form part of a safety‑led redesign. The new layout prioritises shorter, safer pedestrian crossings for schoolchildren, elderly residents of St Raphaels Centre, and families heading to Ardrath Park football pitches. The table‑top ramps will further slow turning traffic while the resurfacing ensures a smooth, durable surface for all users.
The attached map shows the planned layout. These are practical steps toward a calmer junction where cars and people can share the space more safely.
Stayed tuned to local media for updates. No comments on this post. ... See MoreSee Less
9 CommentsComment on Facebook
All too tight for vehicles and bicycles, it's dangerous.
Very difficult now to negotiate.
Engineers from Temu
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REFLECTIONS FROM POISON BUSH LANE: THE END OF AN ERA FOR THE LORETO CONVENT EXTENSION
By Michael Hussey
Today, Tuesday 13th January 2026, I captured on my mobile phone the long-awaited demolition of the former Loreto Convent extension building in Youghal — a huge, harsh brick facade that has been an eyesore at the entrance to the town for well over a decade. For many of us, its removal feels like a small but meaningful victory for the pride we hold in how our town looks and feels.
The extension, built in the 1970s to accommodate the growing numbers at Loreto Convent Secondary School, was hardly a beauty — a plain, rectangular structure of four concrete floors. Yet, it served its purpose well. Thousands of students from Youghal, East Cork, and West Waterford passed through those red-bricked walls over the decades. At least it shared that one redeeming feature — the same coloured brick as the original, elegant Aston Court building it was attached to. That old red-brick house, once a private residence before the Loreto Order took it over around the 1950s, is steeped in its own history — including days when boarding schoolgirls lived there during term time.
At one time that proud red-brick building was, rather bizarrely, painted completely white for a short period. It happened when Aston Court came into the ownership of Seafield Fabrics and Blackwater Cottons — factories well known for their gleaming white exteriors. Workers from those factories, so the story goes, were tasked with covering the red bricks of Aston Court with leftover factory paint. Thankfully, sense prevailed in time, and the whitewash was stripped away, returning the building to its original red splendour.
In the short video clip I filmed today, I speak about all this — the end of the extension, the plight of the original building, and a deep wish that Aston Court, though badly in need of structural attention, will now have a chance to be saved and restored to its former glory. I filmed most of the footage from halfway up Poison Bush Lane — a fitting vantage point overlooking one of Youghal’s finest views: across Green Park, the Walter Raleigh Hotel, and out toward the lighthouse hill where the majestic Blackwater River meets Youghal Bay.
Poison Bush Lane itself deserves mention. Once a proud public right of way connecting the Golf Links Road with the Lighthouse Hill, it has sadly become overgrown and impassable in places. I made the point as I filmed that this right of way belongs to the people of Youghal — it should be cleared and reopened. Many older townsfolk will remember walking that lane from Sarsfield Terrace during summer months on their way to “Green Hole” for a swim. Long before the beach became dominated by tourists, the locals favoured familiar bathing spots — “Green Hole”, “The Divings” near the lighthouse, and the “49 Steps” — all part of our town’s living memory.
I also paused in the video to recall the once-beautiful and much-loved Loreto Grotto, now completely gone — not a trace remaining. Its demolition after the school’s closure in 2006 stunned the community. The notion that such a sacred and cherished place could be abandoned and destroyed felt almost unthinkable. Many said nothing good could come after that, comparing it to the old Irish belief that disturbing a fairy fort brings misfortune. Whether through religion or tradition, this deep respect for the past runs through the Irish soul.
But today, as the excavators move again, clearing the site where the extension once stood, I can’t help but see it as part of a new beginning — a moment of renewal for Youghal. I can only hope that out of this clearing rises something that honours our past and serves our future.
Video filmed and narrated by Michael Hussey on 13/01/2026 ... See MoreSee Less
56 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thanks a million to everyone for the wonderful reactions, memories and stories shared here—Margaret, Ber, Neil, Marie, Michelle and so many more, it’s brilliant to hear your Poison Bush Lane tales from school days and beyond. Sorry to confirm, Juanita, the basketball courts are fully demolished too. Re the right of way (Lisa, Andrea), the whole lane is public but overgrown—let’s push to clear it! No word yet on boundaries (Anita) but fingers crossed they stay. If anyone has questions on the Loreto history, grotto, Seafield Fabrics or what’s next for the site, fire away—I’ll respond as best I can. Delighted this is sparking such chat about our town’s heritage! – Michael
In the old days ... Poison bush lane was a dirt track ...When it was dry then ok to use but when wet & Slippery ... Hold on and explain why ya clothes are ruined 🤣..... The School buses used to always be outside the Loreto ... The Guys & Gals from above had to walk or slide down Poison bush to get to the Bus 🤪 .... or be safe and go down Windmill hill 😎
If only that lane could talk 😃 us Convent girls meeting lads from the Christian Brothers having a sneaky cig,ahh what memories ❤️
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UPGRADES CONTINUE AT ST. RAPHAELS JUNCTION YOUGHAL
Reported by Michael Hussey – YoughalOnline / Community Radio Youghal
The much‑discussed improvement works at St. Raphaels Junction in Youghal are moving on to their next stage later this month. According to official information received today, Monday 12 January 2026, the works will include the installation of a new table‑top ramp at the meeting of Bawnmore Road, Golf Links Road, Windmill Hill and Raheen Park (Ardrath Park), together with resurfacing along Bawnmore Road and a ramp at the zebra crossing by South Abbey NS.
Traffic management will be in place from TUESDAY 20 JANUARY TO FRIDAY 23 JANUARY, between 9:15 A.M. AND 5:30 P.M., with local access maintained throughout. Residents with questions can contact the Sustainable Travel Unit at sustainabletravelunit@corkcoco.ie.
Although the new layout has sparked debate locally, I see these works as a major step forward for community safety and accessibility. Earlier today, 12 January 2026, I photographed an elderly woman standing on the new pavement at St Raphaels Junction, waiting to cross the road. In the old layout she described the crossing as “too wide, too fast and far too dangerous” for her. Now, thanks to the tightened junction and shorter crossing distance clearly shown in the photograph, she feels far safer stepping out, and says the finished markings will make it easier again for her and other pedestrians to get across in one quick, confident movement.
The narrowed lanes and new crossing points are designed to slow traffic, making the junction safer not only for drivers but—most importantly—for pedestrians: schoolchildren, elderly residents of St Raphaels Centre, and families heading to matches at nearby Ardrath Park.
For years, locals have worried about speeding and difficult crossings at what we all know as The Cross. These measures, when finished, will help put people first—exactly as they should in a neighbourhood that serves schools, care facilities and active public spaces.
The project is part of Cork County Council’s wider sustainable‑travel improvements for Youghal. Patience will be needed while the final surfacing and ramps are completed, but the long‑term gain will be a calmer, safer junction where cars, cyclists and pedestrians can share the road with greater care and respect.
Pictures: St Raphaels Junction, Youghal – 12/01/2026. An elderly resident waits on the new widened pavement to cross a much shorter, safer distance than before. Photo: Michael Hussey ... See MoreSee Less
39 CommentsComment on Facebook
absolutely Zero consideration given to School Buses and HGV vehicles trying to even attempt a 90 degree turn either right or left, what you will see eventualy is the corners of those obstacles/Islands being disinterated, with Heavy wheels while attempting to turn, CCC need to engage with ther RSA engineers on how to do a juntion Properly/Safely as the current crop of CCC engineers/Dinosaurs responceable for the Youghal area, are proving the worthlessness time and again,(:-)))
Wider sidewalks and narrower road ?
Not enough road left! Two cars can barely fit side by side now with vans, trucks and buses using it regularly! I have seen large vehicles mount the footpath because they cant make the turn
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Sad News Update on Gandhi the Gull
Unfortunately, the latest update from the Cork Wildlife Rescue team is heartbreaking. After Gandhi the Gull was admitted to their centre, the rescue staff carried out a full assessment and discovered that his right leg was completely shattered, with the nerves severed and no feeling or use left in it at all. This explained why the leg was hanging at such an odd angle, when it had first appeared it might “only” be a dislocation.
To be absolutely certain, the team arranged an X-ray, which confirmed the extent of the damage. In agreement with the veterinary professionals, they then had to make the very difficult decision to humanely put Gandhi to sleep, as there was no realistic chance he would ever regain use of the leg and live a pain‑free, natural life.
This is not the outcome anyone had hoped for, and the Cork Wildlife Rescue team acknowledged how hard this news is for everyone who followed Gandhi’s story and wished him well. They gently reminded us that part of their work as wildlife rehabilitators is to help some animals pass peacefully when their injuries are simply too severe to recover from.
The team asked that a sincere “thank you” be passed on to all in Youghal and beyond who showed such kindness—those who first lifted him from the freezing roadside, everyone who commented, shared, and cared, and all who sent love and good wishes his way.
Even though Gandhi did not survive, his short story became a powerful example of compassion in action, and the outpouring of concern for “this little soul” meant he did not suffer alone or unnoticed. ... See MoreSee Less
12 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you to all involved! And never stop looking after injured animals, doesn't matter how small or big, with feathers or fur, we're the only chance they might have 🙏🏼💞
Rest in peace little one 🌈& thanks to all who cared for him 😥
Sorry to hear that, ☹️
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🚂 Youghal Rail Satire: "No Plan, No Policy, No Funding, No Project" 🚂
Take a trip back to 1950s Youghal Railway Station – steam trains puffing in, happy crowds on the platform. Now hear what Irish Rail's project manager told East Cork councillors this week and widely reported in the newspapers: "no plan, no policy, no funding, and no project" to restore our Midleton–Youghal line.
Michael Hussey said: "There isn't a railway service in the world that makes money – they're public services provided by governments. Especially today, we need them to get cars off the roads and give coastal towns like Youghal the proper public transport we deserve."
It's clearly satire that gets a laugh, but carries the serious disappointment of Youghal – Ireland's most famous seaside resort – being left out while the entire East Cork rail network gets a €1.8bn upgrade to Midleton and Cobh. A kick in the teeth.
Narrated and created by local Youghal man Michael Hussey to give voice to the East Cork Rail Alliance (20,000 signatures strong and counting). Keep campaigning – because Youghal deserves better than decade-long delays! ... See MoreSee Less
23 CommentsComment on Facebook
The railway line never called to Castlemartyr !!
Went there plenty of times in the train,beautiful town.
Ah but if it was Dublin different story
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Catch the Repeat: Youghal Fishing Heritage Radio Special
Missed Tuesday's lively chat on Community Radio Youghal? No problem!
The Breakfast Show with Tommy Collins featuring community archivist Michael Hussey and fisherman Sean Murphy repeats this Friday, 9th January, at 7pm, on CRY 104fm.
Stream anytime after via CRY website player → Listen Back → Morning Review.
Fishing wasn't just work; it shaped Youghal life. Docks like Buttimer's and Market Dock were community hubs. We discussed the viral fishing clip recently posted on social media, Blackwater salmon runs, fishing family names, the decline—but also hope: teaching kids net-mending and floating the idea of a maritime heritage centre.
📸 Photo: Tommy Collins with Sean Murphy & Michael Hussey in CRY104fm studios
Photos: Burke/Bickerdike/Hussey/Buttimer ... See MoreSee Less
9 CommentsComment on Facebook
The devil makes three, champagne and reefer
Great photos of a busy time with fishing in the town of Youghal, my own father used to go from Cheekpoint in co Waterford to fish the summers in Youghal, they used to stay with a woman called Mrs Russel, her daughter used to work in Youghal carpets.
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BEYOND THE CLOSURES: YOUGHAL'S QUIET FIGHTBACK. By Michael Hussey
Youghal has taken its share of blows in recent years. The closure of the iconic Moby Dicks pub, more empty shopfronts, and now fresh concerns around the future of the railway link have all fed a steady drumbeat of negative headlines. Nationally, more than 2,100 pubs have shut across Ireland since 2005, and coastal towns like Youghal feel that pressure sharply. Yet those headlines only tell half the story. On the ground, Youghal is not shrugging its shoulders; it is organising.
TOWN CENTRE FIRST – STANDING ROOM ONLY
The Youghal Town Centre First Initiative draws huge crowds from town and hinterland to fortnightly public meetings at the Walter Raleigh Hotel. These are lively sessions where people from retail, hospitality, heritage, sports, fishing, youth and community groups roll up their sleeves with practical ideas.
The group urgently needs more volunteers – to map empty buildings, shape tourism plans, lobby for transport and investment, mind heritage sites and champion the harbour. Their message rings clear: if you love Youghal, don't sit at home complaining. Come through the door, grab a seat, and help build a more vibrant, economically strong, heritage-rich and tourism-friendly town.
RAILS AND GREENWAYS
At a recent East Cork Municipal District meeting, Irish Rail's project manager confirmed there is currently "no plan, no policy, no funding, and no project" to restore the Midleton–Youghal rail link – though the new greenway leaves physical space for a future line. He estimated €200m and up to 10 years if approved. Yet the East Cork Rail Alliance has gathered 20,000 signatures for reopening and will address councillors next month, while Mayor Mary Linehan Foley vows to lobby Government and Taoiseach Micheál Martin for policy change.
BUSINESSES GOING WHERE THE CUSTOMERS ARE
On the main streets, local businesses have embraced social media, using video, live streams and regular posts to showcase fashion, gifts, food and crafts to audiences far beyond east Cork – building small brands with followers across Munster and overseas holidaymakers staying connected.
ARTS, EVENTS AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Youghal's cultural pulse thrives: a hugely successful Halloween fundraiser at the Regal Cinema paired local musicians' live score to the silent classic The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, drawing packed houses and raising vital funds.
The Youghal Chamber of Tourism and Development does wonderful work promoting the town through events, training and lobbying, while the Youghal Business Alliance upcoming awards night will celebrate enterprise, innovation and community spirit among those keeping doors open and supporting local causes.
Media champions like Community Radio Youghal (CRY104fm), Youghal News, Midleton News, Irish Examiner, Evening Echo, YoughalOnline, Love Youghal, Dungarvan Leader and Dungarvan Observer deliver incredible coverage across airwaves, online and newsprint, keeping the town's pulse visible and strong.
YOUGHAL4ALL sustains festivals like the Moby Dick weekend, securing the Ahab sculpture that proves heritage delivers.
A TOWN THAT REFUSES TO SINK
The losses hurt – Moby Dicks' final pint stung, rail hopes remain distant. But look closer: packed Town Centre First meetings, rail campaigners with 20,000 signatures, traders reinventing online, musicians filling the Regal, business leaders honouring quiet grafters.
This is Youghal choosing to fight – for economic strength, positivity, heritage and tourism. The seas are rough, but the crew is very much on deck.
PHOTO GALLERY:
Youghal in action: Over 60 photos by Michael Hussey capturing the town's incredible arts scene, live entertainment, cultural festivals, industry heritage, economic resilience and tourism highlights from recent years. From packed Town Centre First meetings to musicians, volunteers, businesses and heritage events – proof Youghal's spirit thrives. ... See MoreSee Less
16 CommentsComment on Facebook
You can do it Youghal, The town that" I loved so well ".
Great to see so many enthusiastic people I’m not from youghal but spend 5 months in Ballymacoda every year I love going to youghal and giving it business I even come about once a month during the winter months and love doing a bit of shopping and have a bit of lunch. It needs all the business it can get.
As a proud Youghal man even though I have been living in Swansea for the past thirty odd years. I still call Youghal my home. I think Youghal just needs a very big employer to help the economy of Youghal. I think if Youghal could get a massive employer more industries would follow
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HEARTWARMING UPDATE: GANDHI THE GULL RESCUED AND RECOVERING
Youghal's own Gandhi The Gull, the injured seagull affectionately named by a concerned viewer for its peaceful yet resilient spirit, is now in expert care thanks to a swift community response. After a YoughalOnline Facebook post sparked an outpouring of support, Yasmin from Cork Wildlife Rescue drove through the cold night from Cork city to collect the bird with its severely damaged leg, ensuring a safe transfer to their warm base for urgent vet attention. Early signs are hopeful, and updates will follow as Gandhi begins his road to recovery.
COMMUNITY POWER IN ACTION
Social media proved a force for good here, with inundated positive comments rallying help for Gandhi, who gazed sadly at his fallen companion on Raheen Road before a local resident sheltered him from sub-zero chills.
Shoutouts go to Cork Wildlife Rescue's dedicated team, YoughalOnline viewers for their fantastic engagement, and nearby residents for the initial save—proving Youghal's tight-knit spirit shines brightest in crises.
Picture: Yasmin from the Cork Wildlife Rescue with Gandhi The Gull, en route to healing. Stay tuned for more good news on our feathered fighter!
Picture: The injured seagull at Raheen road, Youghal.
Picture: The seagull waiting for the Cork Wildlife Rescue to arrive. ... See MoreSee Less
13 CommentsComment on Facebook
Aw, brilliant 🤩
Brilliant result. Well done everyone. Please consider donating to wildliferescuecork.com/index.php/donate/ They do amazing work!
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