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.
YOUGHAL NATIVE ALAN MANGAN BRACED FOR THE BIG FREEZE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE, USA
As snow and ice blanketed much of the U.S. in January 2026, Alan Mangan—originally from Dominic Square, Youghal—shared scenes from his home in New Hampshire, where heavy snowfall transformed the landscape. Alan, now married and settled in the U.S., captured the beauty and intensity of the winter storm right outside his door. New Hampshire was no stranger to the cold—the state once recorded a chilling –47°F on Mount Washington in 2023! Many in Youghal fondly remembered Alan’s late parents, Sonny and Alice Mangan. Sonny, the town’s friendly milkman, was remembered with great affection.
Alan jokingly said in his video that he was filming the report specially for Michael Hussey, YoughalOnline—and that he hoped to be paid for the effort! We can confirm his fee has now been settled… 99c and a refill of his famous Langer tin mug at his local in New Hampshire! ... See MoreSee Less
15 CommentsComment on Facebook
Bring in the milk
Looking good Alan Mangan, I hope all is well, I remember being in Rhode Island for a blizzard and my Irish brain couldn't handle it I thought the world was going to end and Rita just laughed.
Hey,Alan a little south of you here in MD, polar vortex and snow here too over the last few weeks, knew your Farther Sonny and family, in Youghal. lived Nextdoor to Janet in Knockaverry before leaving for the USA . David Cole
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BRIGHT HORIZON FOR YOUGHAL: Youghal Trailhead Completion on Midleton to Youghal Greenway Brings Fresh Hope Amid Recent Challenges. By Michael Hussey
YOUGHAL is looking ahead with real optimism as Cork County Council confirms the long-awaited trailhead at the Youghal end of the Midleton to Youghal Greenway will be fully completed in the coming months—just in time to energise the summer tourist season!
County Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley, a steadfast champion for the project, has long insisted on getting it right for the town. In the past, she famously declared she would not cut any ribbon for the opening of the Youghal end unless it was completely finished and to the highest standard—ensuring quality facilities that truly benefit locals and visitors alike. Now, with the latest timeline locked in, that determination is delivering results!
"This is great news for the town," Cllr. Linehan Foley said. "The much anticipated finish of the Greenway will finally be completed in the next few months, delivering better facilities and welcoming even more visitors to enjoy our beautiful East Cork route."
The positive timeline stems directly from Cllr. Linehan Foley's proactive motion at the February meeting of the East Cork Municipal District (submitted on 20th January 2026, as per protocol). In it, she sought an update on the MY Greenway and the completion of the Youghal trailhead, expressing hope it would be ready for the upcoming season.
The Director of Services responded with clear and encouraging details: Cork County Council is currently finalising the scope of works with the Department of Rural & Community Development, funded through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS). This will be wrapped up next month. Tenders will be issued early in Q2 2026, with a contractor expected on site at the start of Q3. The entire trailhead project—including enhanced access, parking, signage, and amenities—is projected to be completed by the end of Q3 2026, perfectly timed to boost the peak tourist season!
This comes at a poignant time for Youghal, which has faced tough blows recently—including more shop closures leaving empty units on the streets, and the sad closure of the iconic Moby Dick pub on January 1st, 2026. After nearly 150 years as a quayside landmark (and a Hollywood-linked gem from the 1956 film starring Gregory Peck), the pub's retirement marked the end of an era and a real loss for the community's social and cultural heart.
Yet amid these challenges, the Greenway upgrade stands out as a powerful counterpoint and catalyst for recovery. The 23km off-road route—already popular for walkers, cyclists, and families—connects Midleton, Mogeely, Killeagh, and Youghal, promoting health, wellbeing, and vital tourism.
With the Youghal trailhead fully realised, it promises increased visitor numbers, more footfall for local shops, cafes, and attractions, and a renewed buzz that could help revitalise the town centre.
The Greenway's completion signals brighter days ahead, drawing people in to rediscover our historic streets, beaches, and welcoming spirit.
Youghal has taken its hits, but with this boost, the town is ready to rise—let's make this summer a turning point!
Photos: Images of the Midleton to Youghal Greenway and the new signage at the Youghal end, capturing the progress ahead of the trailhead's final touches. Pictures by Michael Hussey ... See MoreSee Less
23 CommentsComment on Facebook
Any plans for the train station?. I assume its still belong to CIE,
To hell with the greenaway get the Railway back if you really want to put the town on the MAP
Great greenway but the railway to Youghal needs to be reopened. Youghal needs a railway again.
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Youghal's Lost Groynes: Memories of Maintenance and Calls for Urgent Reinstatement.
Denis McCarthy and Michael Hussey talk about the lost groynes at Youghal beach.
By Michael Hussey, Youghalonline Contributor
In my latest audio interview for Community Radio Youghal and Youghalonline, I spoke with well-known local Denis McCarthy – a former competitive racing cyclist who dominated the scene back in the day, and an avid collector of Youghal archives. Denis shared heartfelt memories of helping his grandfather maintain the old wooden groynes on the Front Strand when he was just 13. His grandfather worked for the Youghal Urban District Council, and Denis recalls the joy of those days: repairing the sturdy timbers that trapped sand for beach nourishment, stopped longshore drift, and broke storm waves for multifunctional protection.
Denis notes that these groynes have seen no real maintenance for decades, contributing to sand loss on the beach and buildup further uptown at the Mall dock and the Market dock. During his racing career across Europe, he always sought out beaches and noticed effective groynes in places like Spain – some concrete structures that held sand well.
I share the nostalgia: in the late 1960s and 1970s, swimming from groyne to groyne (about 100 yards, or roughly 90 metres) was a test of skill for us kids – even diving off the top beams at high tide in summer.
With visible erosion along the Youghal coast post Storm Chandra – topsoil clumps scattered, dunes retreating, threats to Blue Flag beaches – many townspeople are calling for the groynes to be reinstated. Denis and I agree it's urgent: time and tide wait for no one.
In the accompanying photo, Denis holds two archive black-and-white images of the old groynes in their prime, while a larger dramatic shot shows him leading the pack in a cycling race – a fitting nod to his sporting talents.
One point I raised in the interview: is there a view in some quarters that leaving the beach without groynes gives a "more natural feel"? It's speculation on my part, but worth discussing – especially when locals cherish fond memories of the maintained groynes that once kept our beach nourished and safe.
Listen to the full interview on Community Radio Youghal or Youghalonline.
Michael Hussey is a local retired resident and regular contributor to Youghalonline, Community Radio Youghal, and Youghal news, specialising in photo, audio and video documentation of the town.
Photo: Denis McCarthy, Youghal's former racing cyclist and passionate local historian, with archive black-and-white photos of the Front Strand's old wooden groynes. The dramatic larger shot shows him leading the pack in his cycling heyday. A reminder of when groynes kept our beach nourished and safe. ... See MoreSee Less
9 CommentsComment on Facebook
Good man den
Well done Denis we hear a lot of talk about tourism but if we have no sand left on our beaches so much for tourism.
My lovely cousin Denis McCarthy 💙💙
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PHOTO FINISH! JOHNNY DINEEN, THE MAYOR, AND THE GANG TAKE CHARITY OVER THE LINE
It was all fun and frolics at the launch of Johnny Dineen’s big gamble — a 5K charity run in support of Cancer Connect and CASA (the Caring and Sharing Association).
Who dropped by to wish Johnny well? None other than the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, who praised her fellow Youghalie for “taking on the gamble of his life — running instead of betting!”
Johnny, well known in the Irish racing world and no stranger to a flutter or two, is swapping the bookmaker’s odds for the athletics track — and with training underway, the comfort zone is officially behind him!
The Mayor joined charity representatives, supporters, and friends for what turned into a joyful mini‑race of sorts, finishing with a photo‑finish moment as everyone crossed the “imaginary Olympic finish line” hand in hand. Even the Mayor raised her arms in victory as the cameras snapped!
The funds raised will be split evenly between the two fantastic causes — and the spirit shown tonight proves that Youghal truly runs best when it runs together.
By Michael Hussey | Photo: Michael Hussey
Picture: A “photo finish” moment at Youghal Athletic Club as Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, joins Johnny Dineen, charity representatives and supporters at the launch of Johnny’s upcoming 5K charity run for Cancer Connect and CASA.
Photo by Michael Hussey
Picture: Photo Finish! Johnny Dineen And The Mayor Take Charity Over the Line
Picture: Everyone a Winner as Johnny’s Charity Run Brings the Town Together ... See MoreSee Less
16 CommentsComment on Facebook
Fair play Johnny, no stopping you now 👏
Well done Johnny
Well done Johnny and everyone else involved 👏
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Real-Time Coastal Erosion Watch: Pilmore Beach – Groynes Making a Difference? By Michael Hussey
In this short educational film (7 minutes), filmed today (Sunday, 8 February 2026), I walk the Pilmore coastline to document ongoing erosion after Storm Chandra. See the striking contrast: newer wooden groynes successfully trap and build up sand on one side (protecting the land), while the unprotected side shows drops of 0.3m to over 0.6m. Older groynes are worn and ineffective, much like those at Youghal Front Strand—recall my old 1980s photo (included in the timeline) of uniform groynes along the beach… yes, the one that somehow won first prize at the Walter Raleigh Potato Festival back then (still can’t quite believe it myself!).
Also shown: scattered topsoil grass clumps, eroded dunes, and serious damage to the Pilmore Cottages access road. Informative narration explains it all—let's raise awareness and push for solutions! ... See MoreSee Less
14 CommentsComment on Facebook
Fix the roads in Youghal before even looking at the sand, easily know Ironman isn't coming back with all the potholes around the place.
Thats why their very efective an are still being used today on most beaches that are being looked after properly mick an fair play to them lads in pilmore for getting there act together
Thanks, I didnt know that they were called groynes or what they were for. If they prevent erosion, why havent they been maintained and replaced?
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Community Voices on Erosion Solutions: Groynes Prove Effective at Pilmore – Time for Broader Action? By Michael Hussey
Following the recent Youghalonline post on severe coastal erosion from Youghal beach to Redbarn and Pilmore after Storm Chandra, local residents have shared emails, photos, and strong opinions on what works—and what doesn't.
A key message from locals: groynes (timber or similar barriers extending into the sea) are the proven solution in some areas. Photos submitted show clear contrasts—sections with groynes have built up sand levels, raising the beach and causing waves to break farther offshore, protecting the cliff/base from direct impact. In contrast, unprotected stretches expose the cliff/land to relentless wave attack, accelerating erosion.
Locals highlight that at Pilmore (near Pilmore Cottages), private farmers installed groynes at their own expense and with their own labour. These have successfully trapped sand, rebuilt beach height, and shielded the land—demonstrating practical expertise in action. One resident notes: "The photos show clearly the success of the groynes... Clearly the farmers have more expertise than CCC!"
Criticism focuses on Cork County Council's preferred approach: rock armour (boulders or sloping structures at the base). Contributors argue this allows waves to still hit and scour the cliff/road behind it, causing ongoing damage rather than building protective sand buffers. Public records show rock armour added in spots at Pilmore Cottages after 2019 storm damage to the access road (destroyed multiple times), but residents and some councillors call for groynes reinstatement to stabilise sandy beaches.
This echoes broader concerns: rotting groynes at the Front Strand have let sand blow away, per Cllr Mary Linehan-Foley and others in 2025-2026 discussions. An OPW-funded Coastal Erosion Risk Management Study for Pilmore Cottages (approved 2023, €135,000) assesses options including structural measures like groynes or rock armour before any works funding—yet locals feel private efforts outpace official progress.
No one disputes groynes aren't a full fix everywhere (they depend on sand supply, tides, and maintenance), but these photos and experiences make a compelling case for revisiting them at vulnerable spots like Pilmore and Youghal Beach stretches.
Community input is building—social media, Community Radio Youghal chats, and emails show growing calls for similar protections. Share your photos, ideas, or experiences to Youghalonline. What solutions do you support? Let's keep the conversation going—our coastline needs urgent, effective action.
Photos: Contrast shots of sand buildup behind groynes vs. exposed cliff without them; farmer-installed groynes at Pilmore; rock armour installed by Cork County Council. The access road to Pilmore cottages falling into the sea after Storm Chandra
All images sent in by viewers to Youghalonline on 07/02/2026 ... See MoreSee Less
7 CommentsComment on Facebook
The old timers knew what they were doing years ago with the groynes all along the beach, all the sand is been washed into the harbour filling up the Mall and Market docks and extending the Red Bank above the Ferry Point.
Thats the proof I've been on about for years Groynes in Pilmore working perfectly 👌
Denise Ni Coileáin. Show Finbarr
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YOUGHAL'S COASTLINE UNDER SIEGE: Severe Erosion Hits Front Strand to Pilmore After Recent Storms
By Michael Hussey, Youghalonline Contributor
Storm Chandra struck Ireland in late January 2026 with heavy rain, strong winds, and wave overtopping along southern and eastern coasts, as warned by Met Éireann. While some areas faced devastating inland flooding (like Enniscorthy in Wexford), Youghal's seaside coastline—particularly from Claycastle/Front Strand out to Pilmore Strand and Redbarn Beach—suffered significant coastal erosion.
Massive sections of dunes at Pilmore have been washed away, with several feet of shoreline lost as grass, soil, and topsoil eroded. Clumps of coastal grass turf, once anchoring the dunes, now lie scattered across the sand—a clear sign of high winds, storm surges, wave action, and excessive runoff stripping the land.
This pattern continues along the stretch from Claycastle to Redbarn. Near the well-known tarmac carpark—a huge summer attraction for tourists and locals—topsoil has collapsed onto the beach in places. Further along the boardwalk, sections of the parallel coastal fencing (large wooden poles pile-driven into the sand, with attached wire) have fallen or become unstable. This fence serves multiple roles: catching blowing sand to build dunes, preventing further erosion, and marking boundaries for privately owned land adjacent to the coast (with the foreshore under council responsibility).
The good news amid the damage: both boardwalks survived the storm intact, holding strong despite the battering. Only some relatively minor wooden steps leading from the boardwalk to the beach were affected—these should be easily repaired in time for the summer tourist season.
Local awareness is growing, as seen in environmental social media groups showing increased concern about worsening erosion. Community groups like the Youghal Blue and Green Community Network run awareness talks, biodiversity events in the dunes, and regular beach cleans through partnerships with Clean Coasts—valuable efforts that engage residents and visitors. Coastwatch Ireland's photo monitoring post at the start of the boardwalk encourages people to snap and upload mobile photos to track changes. Yet, as locals note, these grassroots steps—while important—will take a lot more on a massive scale to truly save our eroding soil and dunes. As the saying goes, "after the horse has bolted" comes to mind for bigger interventions like OPW-led rock armour, dune restoration, or groyne repairs.
Coastal erosion has been a growing concern in Youghal for years, with ongoing studies (including an OPW-funded project covering 9.5 km from Youghal to Ring, including Pilmore) assessing risks and potential protections such as rock armour or groyne reinstatement. Recent storms have accelerated the loss, threatening beaches, access paths, and nearby areas.
My photo documentary captures the stark reality: before-and-after contrasts, scattered turf clumps, collapsed topsoil, and damaged fencing. These visuals show how quickly our beautiful coastline can change—and why action matters.
While the Quayside flood wall proved its worth in holding back town flooding (as covered recently), the beaches at the other end of town need similar attention.
Locals, what have you noticed? Share your stories in the comments. Protecting Youghal's shores is vital for our community, heritage, and visitors.
Michael Hussey is a retired local resident and regular contributor to Youghalonline, community radio Youghal, and Youghal news, specialising in photo and video documentation of the town.
Photos: Dunes washed away at Pilmore with scattered turf clumps; topsoil collapse near Claycastle carpark; fallen fencing sections along the boardwalk, surviving boardwalk with steps to the beach, local man John Harris astonished by the erosion, Coastwatch Ireland's photo monitoring post at the start of the boardwalk encourages people to snap and upload mobile photos to track coastal changes. ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
Walked the boardwalk today at low tide, humming, to myself, “Under the boardwalk…!” Yes there is plenty of space beneath it at present.😊
It happens year in year out because there's no groynes on our beautiful beach ,if you go to Pilmore there's a section with groynes erected by a small group of farmers which protects the land and even reclaims part of the coast which proves that groynes work perfectly, it totally amazes that the local council back in the day when we had one ,the cork County Council and our governments over the years have not followed the example of the local farmers,
Warren Reilly
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YOUGHAL QUAYSIDE FLOOD DEFENCE WALL PROVES EFFECTIVE AMID RECENT STORMS. By Michael Hussey
While Storm Chandra in late January 2026 brought severe flooding to parts of Ireland's southeast coast – including devastating overflows in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, where homes, businesses, and streets were flooded - Youghal's Quayside stayed largely protected.
The Phase 1 flood defence wall, completed a few years ago, performed impressively. This approximately one-metre-high barrier, complete with an integrated walkway extending from the Mall Dock, Nealons Quay, Market Dock to near the Youghal Credit Union, held back tidal surges, high winds, and heavy rain. Unlike previous years when similar conditions led to submerged paths and property damage, the Quayside remained dry and accessible.
Flooding is never entirely predictable - it depends on local conditions such as wind direction, flows from the Blackwater River, tidal patterns, and the exact path of storms – even when Met Éireann issues its colour-coded warnings. Still, the wall delivered strong protection in Youghal, preventing the kind of flooding the Quayside has suffered in past events.
County Mayor Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, a dedicated Youghal native, praised the success: "The Phase 1 wall has proven its value by keeping our Quayside safe during these challenging storms – it's a clear win for the community and shows what thoughtful investment can achieve."
Looking ahead with optimism, she confirmed that Phase 2 – extending defences along Buttimers Quay (also known as Green's Quay) – is firmly in the planning stage. This next phase, a partnership between the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Cork County Council, will include reinforced walls, enhanced drainage, and measures to tackle tidal and fluvial risks more comprehensively. Community advocacy, including local petitions and council discussions, continues to support timely progress, building on Phase 1's strong foundation.
Accompanying photos illustrate the wall's construction, past flood contrasts, and the recent calm Quayside – proof of progress in safeguarding our town.
Michael Hussey is a retired local resident and regular contributor to Youghalonline, Community Radio Youghal, and Youghal News, specialising in photo and video documentation of the town. ... See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
There needs to be walls up on the other quay the other side of Harvey’s waterfront , cause it floods there also when water is high!
Got sent a video from a friend at home .. of the quay and the mall and looking at the pic ..it needs dredging badly .. I've never seen the sand so high in the quay ... Are the groynes ever going to be replaced, same as further up the sand bank near the bridge is now an island for seals ...
If we could fix the potholes/ creveses that's around youghal ,at the moment would actually be great too
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CANCER CONNECT SHORTLISTED FOR PTSB COMMUNITY PARTNER 2026 – YOUR VOTE NEEDED NOW!
FANTASTIC NEWS FOR EAST CORK'S VITAL CANCER TRANSPORT SERVICE — CANCER CONNECT has been shortlisted as a PTSB COMMUNITY PARTNER FOR 2026 in the South & East region!
Now it's over to the public to decide. The two charities with the most votes in each region will be selected as official PTSB Community Partners, unlocking essential funding to power thousands more journeys to cancer treatment across Cork this year.
WHY VOTE CANCER CONNECT?
This is the volunteer-driven service we've been featuring recently — bringing patients from Youghal and East Cork to Cork hospitals for radiotherapy, chemo, scans and more, then safely home again. No means testing, no barriers, just practical help when it's needed most.
HOW TO VOTE (TAKES SECONDS):
Click here: www.ptsb.ie/responsible-business/ptsb-community/community-form-region-south-east/
Share widely with friends, family, WhatsApp groups, clubs, colleagues — every vote boosts our chances!
LET'S KEEP CANCER CONNECT ON THE ROAD — VOTE TODAY!
Voting closes 22 February 2026. ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
Done ✨️ Cancer Connect Best of luck 🤞
Phil Crowley Amy Collins Kieran Crowley Diarmuid Crowley
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