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.
→ The Tuscan Plait Institution of Youghal · 300 Workers and 7 Straw Bonnet Factories.
One of the more unusual names in Youghal’s 19th century history is the Tuscan Plait Institution.
It opened in 1829 and taught the making of hats and bonnets from plaited straw. By 1837, it was recorded as employing over 300 females, making it a notable local craft industry.
Its exact location is unknown, and its later history is uncertain, but its influence can be seen in the number of straw bonnet businesses later recorded in the town.
By the mid 19th century, Youghal had seven straw bonnet factories.
The recorded proprietors were:
Catherine Browning · Cross Lane
Alice Fitzgerald · North Main Street
Ann Newby · North Main Street West
Jane Blackall · North Main Street
Margaret Farmer · South Main Street
Hannah Dyer · The Mall
Rebecca Woodcock · South Main Street
The timing is also worth noting. The Tuscan Plait Institution opened in 1829. The Presentation Convent School was established in Youghal in 1834 and had 600 girls by 1835. In 1845, the Presentation Sisters introduced needle lace making into the town, leading to the development of Youghal lace.
Together, straw plaiting and lace making show a strong tradition of craft, production and employment in 19th century Youghal.
Youghal’s old industries are often remembered through the harbour, fishing, brick, lime, grain, mills and lace. The Tuscan Plait Institution adds more to the list: straw hats and bonnets.
📚 Source: Irish Historic Towns Atlas, no. 27, Youghal.
Article researched by: Kieran McCarthy · Youghal Online ... See MoreSee Less
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→ NEW PHOTO No.4 “The Debs” Youghal.
If you were there, you’ll remember it well…
👉 Do you recognise anyone?
👉 What year do you think this was?
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Photo: © Bob Rock ... See MoreSee Less
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Local artist Pauline Neville · Irish Artist in her gallery at 12 North Main Street, Youghal. ... See MoreSee Less
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Windmill Hill, Youghal (prior to 1914) · Photo by Robert French, in the collection of the National Library of Ireland. · Colourised by Kieran McCarthy - Youghal Online 2026 ... See MoreSee Less
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🌊 A Fresh Look for the Youghal Sea Swimmers’ Hut
Great to see painter Philip Monaghan hard at work refreshing the Youghal Sea Swimmers' hut, bringing colour back to this much loved local spot.
A small job that makes a big difference for everyone who uses it, especially the hardy swimmers who are in and out of the water all year round.
Fair play Philip 👏
📸 © Youghal Online ... See MoreSee Less
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🎙️ Podcast: Porters Lane Residents Youghal Development Concerns
Residents of Porters Lane area of Youghal have raised concerns over a proposed development and the impact it may have on their homes, access, traffic, privacy, and the character of the area.
Hear the local residents share their views and explain why they feel the proposal deserves closer attention.
🎙️ Audio link in comments. ↓ Interview by: Michael Hussey | Youghal Online
#youghal #porterslane #youghalonline #CommunityVoices #LocalNews #youghalpodcast ... See MoreSee Less
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Kay's flowers at Clarke's ... See MoreSee Less
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NEW PHOTO No.3 “The Debs” Youghal.
If you were there, you’ll remember it well…
👉 Do you recognise anyone?
👉 What year do you think this was?
Tag them below 👇
Photo: © Bob Rock ... See MoreSee Less
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🌞 Youghal Beach 8:27am · Thursday 07/05/2026 · Mostly sunny 11°C ... See MoreSee Less
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