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.
A CHRISTMAS STORY: AGNES MCGRATH AND THE MAGIC OF YOUGHAL'S CLOCK GATE.
By Michael Hussey
In the years following World War II, when life was still marked by hardship and simplicity, one woman brought warmth and wonder to the heart of Youghal. Agnes McGrath lived with her family in the iconic Clock Gate, a building that stood watch over the town and its people. Long before electric streetlights lit the streets, Agnes found a beautiful way to brighten the dark winter evenings.
Youghal at that time was full of life. Large families lived above their shops along the Main Street, and neighbours knew one another well. Each December, Agnes prepared something special. In all sixteen windows of the Clock Gate, she carefully placed candles in jam jars filled with sand. Every evening, without fail, she lit them. Soon, a soft golden glow spilled down onto North and South Main Streets, stopping people in their tracks.
The sight was magical. Shoppers paused, children stared in wonder, and the whole town felt the gentle comfort of Christmas. For Agnes, this was more than decoration. Her inspiration came from her deep faith and from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on the 8th of December, a tradition close to her heart from her native West Cork. Lighting the candles was her way of sharing faith, hope, and kindness with everyone.
Agnes’s husband also played an important role in the life of the Clock Gate. As caretaker, he rang the famous bell to mark the hours and to alert the fire brigade when danger arose, helping to keep the town safe.
The McGrath family lived in the Clock Gate until 1959, but Agnes’s candlelit windows were never forgotten. Her simple act of light during difficult times became a lasting symbol of community spirit, generosity, and the true magic of Christmas in Youghal.
Picture: Agnes McGrath (insert) with illustration of the Youghal Clock Gate windows as she would light them, casting a radiant glow over the North and South main streets. ... See MoreSee Less
14 CommentsComment on Facebook
This is a lovely story. It’s unique to Youghal so wouldn’t it be lovely for it to be recreated every Christmas to continue sharing Hope, Faith & Kindness.
Lived beside the clockgate for 26 years (left in 1989). Visited with my Aussie family July 2025 and did the tour of the Clock Gate. Mr Ruxton was a font of knowledge. Heard some interesting facts that I was not aware of.
Why not recreate this annually
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THE LAST CHRISTMAS CRIB AT ST. RAPHAEL'S, CAPTURED IN 2017
FOR OVER A CENTURY, the Christmas crib at St. Raphael's Church in Youghal warmed hearts and brought the magic of the Nativity to life each festive season.
A TRADITION BORN IN 1904
Since 1904, devoted locals voluntarily built this stunning scene, year after year, transforming a simple manger into a glowing tribute to Jesus' birth. Seán Fitzgerald and Stephen Leamy poured their passion into every detail, creating a display that captured the true spirit of Christmas in Youghal.
HEARTFELT COMMUNITY CUSTOM
Families flocked to take a piece of straw from the crib after the holidays, carrying it home as a cherished token of faith and hope for the year ahead. This touching ritual wove the tradition deep into the fabric of our community, fostering joy and connection.
CAPTURED FOREVER IN 2017
Thankfully, local journalist Michael Hussey immortalised these final moments in a moving 2017 video, chatting with Seán and Stephen as they built the crib one last time—before the church closed in 2018 and this beloved custom faded.
"I knew back then that our cherished traditions were swiftly eroding, and the beautiful Christmas crib at St. Raphael's—with its rich history dating back to 1904—was destined to vanish forever, just like so many of our beloved Youghal customs. The Wonderful St Raphaels Choir has gone, The Pews are gone, gone forever. That's why I made sure to film this poignant final construction in 2017, interviewing Seán Fitzgerald and Stephen Leamy amid the straw and figurines. It's such a heartbreaking shame to see these irreplaceable pieces of our community's soul fade away."
Watch the video below and relive the glow! ... See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
Michael Hussey the crib was beautiful Stephen Leamy and Seanie Ring put a lot of work into the crib each year it was absolutely amazing
That is beautiful. Maybe it could be set up like that in holy family church to bring the Christmas story alive x
Sean Fitzgerald Sean Mac Gearailt Sinead Leamy Flavin it’s that time of year…it’s officially Christmas! 🎄🤣❤️
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YOUGHAL BUSINESS ALLIANCE CHRISTMAS GREETINGS
On behalf of the Youghal Business Alliance, co-chairs Deirdre O’Sullivan and Anne Treacy would like to wish all our members, the wider business community, and every resident of Youghal a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. The Alliance is deeply grateful for the energy, collaboration, and resilience shown by local businesses throughout the past year, helping to keep our town vibrant, welcoming, and full of opportunity.
Over the past year, the Youghal Business Alliance has continued to strengthen connections between businesses, promote Youghal as a fantastic place to live, work, shop, and visit, and support local initiatives that enhance our town centre and waterfront. Through networking events, collaborative promotions, and ongoing engagement with community and civic partners, the YBA has played a key role in championing local enterprise and encouraging people to support businesses on their doorstep.
Looking ahead, the Alliance is especially excited for the inaugural YBA Awards Night in 2026, which will celebrate the achievements, innovation, and community spirit of businesses across Youghal. This special event will recognise the hard work of business owners, staff, and volunteers who go the extra mile for their customers and town, and it will offer a new platform to showcase all that is positive about doing business in Youghal.
Deirdre, Anne, and all involved with the Youghal Business Alliance extend sincere thanks to members for their ongoing support and participation, and to the wider community for choosing local throughout the year. Wishing everyone a peaceful Christmas, strong trading in the months ahead, and a New Year filled with growth, collaboration, and shared success for Youghal. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Happy Christmas to you all 🎄
WARM CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM YOUGHAL MUSICAL SOCIETY
YOUGHAL MUSICAL SOCIETY would like to wish a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of its supporters and members, past and present. We're sending our warmest wishes for a joyful festive season filled with song, family gatherings, and festive cheer, and we're already buzzing with excitement for our 2026 production of Fiddler on the Roof, a timeless classic exploring faith, family, and tradition with rehearsals kicking off under new director Seamus Power.
2025 HIGHLIGHTS
Youghal Musical Society enjoyed a banner year of triumphant productions, enchanting summer concerts, and special milestone celebrations that showcased the incredible talent and passion of our local performers, volunteers, and community.
A massive thank you to our incredible sponsors for their unwavering support over the years, and to every volunteer, cast member, crew, and patron who brings the magic to life on stage.
Here's to a new year overflowing with music, laughter, unforgettable moments, and more vibrant celebrations in Youghal!
Warmest festive wishes,
Youghal Musical Society ... See MoreSee Less
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WARM CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM COMMUNITY RADIO YOUGHAL.
As Station Manager, Yvonne Smith, I would like to sincerely thank and acknowledge the vital role that you, our listeners and supporters, play in the success of Community Radio Youghal. Your loyalty, encouragement, and interaction keep the station at the heart of our town and surrounding areas.
This past year has been especially memorable as we welcomed you into our home at the radio studios in Nagle House to celebrate with us as CRY 104FM marked 30 years since receiving its official community radio licence in late September 2025. Opening our doors and celebrating this milestone together was a wonderful change, as so often it is we who are invited into your home each day through your radios, phones, and smart speakers.
The station continues to thrive through the dedication of its volunteers, the fantastic engagement of local schools, community groups and clubs, and the continued backing of the Youghal business community. The feedback and support we receive from our listeners is truly amazing and deeply valued.
On behalf of everyone at the station, I would like to wish all our community, and especially our listeners, a very peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year. May 2026 bring health, happiness, and many more shared moments on air.
Yours sincerely,
Yvonne Smith
Community Radio Youghal Station Manager ... See MoreSee Less
43 CommentsComment on Facebook
Christmas greeting and best wishes ❤️ to you all at Youghal Radio Thank you 😊
Beautiful said Yvonne, and our sincere thanks to you for keeping all the cogs on the wheel in motion. Happy Christmas to you snd your family.
Cheers Yvonne and we’ll done to you for all your hard work in helping to make CRY one of the most wonderful and happiest places to work.. Happy Xmas to you and yours.
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🎵 NEW MUSIC · FALLBACK by local band THE YEWTONICS out now! Have a listen and if you like it, feel free to share it around: theyewtonics.hearnow.com/fallback ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
The Yewtonics: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580341536566
A NEW TRADITION BEGINS: FIRST CAROL SERVICE AT THE STRAND CHURCH CELEBRATES TESS O’BRIEN AND SUPPORTS CANCER CONNECT
The Christmas Carol Service held this evening, Friday 19th December 2025, in Our Lady of Lourdes Church – fondly known as The Strand Church – was a deeply moving yet thoroughly enjoyable occasion, as performers played to a full congregation who happily joined in traditional and popular Christmas songs and carols, all in aid of Cancer Connect.
From the opening hymn, there was a strong sense of togetherness as voices rose in unison, filling the church with warmth and shared emotion. A beautiful rendition of “Silent Night,” sung in Irish, held the congregation in reflective silence, followed by a particularly poignant moment when Tess’s granddaughter, Katie Hegarty, played the flute and violin with great sensitivity. The Strand Choir then led the way with heartfelt carols, the group Harmony added a rich musical blend, and soloist Caroline Fraher’s soulful singing drew a particularly appreciative response.
The late Tess O’Brien was remembered with great affection throughout the evening. Her daughter Teresa O’Brien acted as MC, introducing each artist with warmth and grace, while to the right of the altar a beautiful image of Tess on a stand, facing the congregation, served as a powerful reminder of her presence and legacy.
The setting of the Strand Church greatly enhanced the atmosphere, with its soft pastel colours and the statue of Our Lady, lit with a halo of lights on the plinth to the left of the altar, seeming to watch over the proceedings. The Christmas Crib was on display with a lit up star over the holy manger scene. On the sanctuary, Canon Bill Bermingham, Fr Patrick Donovan and Deacon John Nestor presided, while Martin Carey and Angela O’Loughlin served as sacristans, ensuring everything ran smoothly
Remarkably, this was the first ever Christmas Carol Service held in the Strand Church, and judging by the warmth of the reception and the enthusiastic singing, it certainly will not be the last. It was a wonderful celebration, a fitting tribute to Tess O’Brien’s faith and community spirit, and a generous show of support for Cancer Connect.
By Michael Hussey | Photo: Michael Hussey
Pictures:
1. Áine Flynn supporting Cancer Connect
2. Soloist Caroline Fraher’s soulful singing drew a particularly appreciative response.
3. Tess’s granddaughter, Katie Hegarty, played the flute and violin with great sensitivity.
4. Tess’s daughter, Teresa O’Brien acted as MC
5. The Strand Choir led the way with heartfelt carols
6. Harmony added a rich musical blend.
7. The Christmas Crib was on display.
8. The statue of Our Lady, lit with a halo of lights on the plinth to the left of the altar
9. The congregation at the first-ever Carol service in the Strand church.
10: The wonderful architecture of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Youghal. ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
It was one of the nicest Carol services I was ever at remembering an absolute lady Tess o Brien.xx
Beautiful concert
A beautiful carol Service, well done to the O Brien family, they did Tess proud.
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History Made in Our Lady of Lourdes Youghal: The Strand Church Hosts Its First Christmas Carol Service in Honour of Tess O’Brien ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
Great to see a Carol service happening again in the Strand Church and more so to honour Tess.
So sorry i missed this evening it was a great sucess take a bow to all participants and especially Teresa and Katie some team What a great abd happy way to remember the lovely Tess🙏
A brilliant show, amazing talent on stage,and so well organised.All involved should be very proud.Well done.
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Christmas Message from the Mayor of the County of Cork - Cllr Mary Linehan Foley
As Christmas draws near, I want to wish all the people of my wonderful hometown of Youghal — and everyone across our great County Cork — a very Happy and Holy Christmas. It’s a truly special honour for me, as Mayor, to celebrate this season with you all. May your homes be filled with kindness, peace, and the joy of family and friends as we welcome a bright New Year ahead.
Nollaig Shona Shíochánta agus Blian Úr faoi mhaise duit
Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, Mayor of the County of Cork ... See MoreSee Less
55 CommentsComment on Facebook
Happy Christmas Mary ya mad thing🥸🌹
Merry Christmas Mary.
Happy Christmas to you and all your family. With every good wish for 2026. Thanks all all your good work in 2025
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