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.
FROM THE RIVER TO THE QUAY: THE LEGACY OF SALMON FISHING IN YOUGHAL.
THE SALMON FISHING INDUSTRY was once at the heart of Youghal’s identity and daily life. For generations, local families relied on the seasonal salmon runs of the River Blackwater, which provided not only a steady source of food and income, but also shaped the town’s traditions and community spirit. Salmon caught in Youghal were known for their quality and were sold both locally and in markets further afield, helping to put the town on the map as a respected fishing port.
The success of this industry had a direct impact on the local economy. Regular catches brought people to the quaysides and, in turn, supported shops, boat builders, and other businesses. The work generated by fishing extended beyond the immediate handling of the fish: net making, boat maintenance, and fish processing all became important local skills. These trades were often passed down from generation to generation, keeping maritime knowledge and techniques alive within families.
The fishing seasons structured much of community life. Each year, the anticipation of the salmon returning to the river was shared by many, and certain traditions grew around the industry, such as the blessing of boats and communal preparations for the busy period ahead. The rhythms of the town aligned with the river, and the sights and sounds of fishing activity became a familiar part of local life.
As Youghal’s reputation for salmon fishing grew, so did its port facilities. The need to land, store and transport fish encouraged investment in the harbour and quays. These developments made the town attractive not only to fishermen, but also to traders and other businesses linked to the sea.
Beyond its economic importance, salmon fishing played a significant role in shaping Youghal’s identity. The industry featured in stories told within families and among friends; successes and hardships on the river were remembered and shared. Over time, the image of the salmon became a symbol of the town’s connection to the water.
Although commercial salmon fishing has declined, its legacy remains clear. Interpretive panels, local heritage events, and the collective memory of the community all reflect how closely Youghal’s fortunes were once tied to the salmon. The skills, traditions, and sense of purpose built around the industry continue to contribute to Youghal’s character and its broader maritime heritage.
In recent decades, changes in legislation, environmental pressures, and international agreements brought significant challenges to local fishermen. Many recall how European Union regulations, designed to manage and conserve fish stocks across member states, resulted in much stricter quotas and restrictions. For Youghal’s fishing community, this meant a rapid end to an activity that had shaped the town for generations. As one local fisherman put it, “WITH A STROKE OF A PEN IT WAS ALL SIGNED OVER TO THE EU.” The traditions and knowledge remain, but the daily life of the town has changed, leaving the rich history of Youghal’s salmon fishing to be remembered and celebrated by new generations.
Compiled, researched, and archived by Michael Hussey.
Archive photos courtesy and copyright to: Bickerdike, Buttimer, Horgan, Burke, Hussey, Nolan, Bulman, Rock. ... See MoreSee Less
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Great article Mick written with passion thank goodness it's been archived for future Generations to understand our heritage looking back at some of those pictures times were certainly hard But they got on with it the only way they understood it on the water the sea shall provide ///great article Mick hussy
Lovely photos well done
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17/07/2025: Important Travel Notice for Youghal Commuters Using the Midleton–Cork Train.
Attention all Youghal commuters who normally drive to Midleton to catch the train to Cork:
Due to essential remedial rockface works taking place today, Thursday, 17th July 2025, there will be significant disruptions to regular rail services on both the Cork to Cobh and Cork to Midleton lines.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Bus Replacements: All train services between Cork and Midleton will be replaced by bus transfers for the entire day.
Reduced Schedule: Expect a reduced timetable and longer journey times as buses replace trains.
From 8pm: Bus transfers will continue to operate in both directions on the Cork–Cobh and Cork–Midleton lines throughout the evening.
IMPACT ON YOUGHAL COMMUTERS
If you normally drive from Youghal to Midleton to access the train to Cork, please allow extra time for your journey today.
Parking at Midleton: The usual park-and-ride convenience will remain, but onward travel will be by bus, not rail.
Expect possible delays and changes to your usual schedule ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
If we only had a train in Youghal
What percentage of Youghal people drive to Middleton for train 2 Cork?
What is the explanation of the Irish name for Midleton?" Mainistir na Corann" ??
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Remembering Gordon Good and Merricks Department Store: Echoes from the Heart of Youghal
For decades, MERRICKS DEPARTMENT STORE stood as the bustling heart of Youghal’s Main Street—a social and commercial anchor lovingly steered for 35 years by the late Gordon Good. Gordon’s dedication to his staff, customers, and town remains vivid in local memory; after a distinguished career, he retired but never lost his enduring affection for the store. His death in October 2019 was marked by tributes recalling him as a “gentleman and wonderful businessman who loved Merricks.”
AN INSTITUTION AND ITS KEEPER
Gordon Good was much more than a proprietor; he was a vital thread in Youghal’s community fabric. Merricks wasn’t simply a shop but a welcoming meeting place, where staff were known by name and customers returned for more than their purchases. Old photographs from 2007—years after his retirement—show Gordon standing proudly in front of his beloved Merricks, reflecting the deep bonds that endured between man and store.
THE GRAFFITI BEHIND THE WALLS: A LIVING CHRONICLE
During renovations in 2007, a remarkable discovery awaited within Merricks’ time-worn walls: graffiti penned by former employees, some dating back well over a century. These inscriptions, long hidden from view, brought to life the voices and personalities of those who worked behind the counters during turbulent times, including the First World War.
Among the most touching was this note from 1916, scribbled by Jane Campbell and uncovered after nine decades:
“Leaving here 21-3-16. Good Friday. Had the greatest six months of my life here.”
Other inscriptions simply listed names, each a window into the living, breathing past of Youghal’s retail world:
Miss Field
Miss Harris
Miss Allen
Tillie De La Hunty
Miss Proud
Miss L. Proud
Miss Pasley
Miss Hillgrove
Miss Payne
T. Hurley, East Green, Dunmanway, Co. Cork (1940)
Maurice McCarthy, 23/01/1971
Rea M Visgard, 19th May 1910
Tillie DeLahunty, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, 27th March 1917
Matt Nolan, Kilmeaden
Some remarks carried the wisdom and wit of everyday life. One verse by M. Harris, dated 6th January 1910, offered the following advice:
“If your lips would keep from slips,
Five to things to remember with care:
For whom you speak, of whom you speak, and how, when and where.”
These poignant discoveries were researched, photographed, and carefully archived by Michael Hussey, ensuring their preservation for future generations and securing Merricks’ unique place in Cork’s social history.
THE END OF AN ERA-AND WHAT REMAINS
Though the old Merricks department store later closed and Gordon Good is sadly no longer with us, his legacy and the heritage of those who laboured within its walls endure. The heartfelt graffiti serves as a testament to the camaraderie and everyday joys of shop life, immortalising the people who made Merricks a cornerstone of Youghal.
Today, a new retail shop under the ToGo Retail brand occupies the former Merricks premises on Main Street. It is important to note that ToGo Retail is a completely separate entity, with no connection to the Merricks tradition or the Good family business that shaped the soul of the location for so long.
The story of Merricks, and of Gordon Good, remains alive through these memories—captured in both photographs and the scrawled words of its many contributors.
This article draws on archives, photographs, and extensive research by Michael Hussey, with additional recollections from CRY 104FM’s tribute to Gordon Good and Merricks Department Store. ... See MoreSee Less
19 CommentsComment on Facebook
Happy days❣️
Great article and photos of Merricks and Gordon Good. Brings back many happy memories. Thanks Michael.
That would take you back a bit Youghal was buzzing not like it is now😞
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A Tremendous Uplift for Deise Fans. By Mike Hackett
Just when we Deise fans needed an uplift, along came a great group of young men to supply it.
For the record - on Saturday June 28th 2025 - Waterford won the All-Ireland Minor Hurling Final. Overcoming Clare 1-18 to 0 -11 left no doubt as to who was the better team that day in Thurles. The joyful scenes shown from Semple Stadium showed the thousands of loyal Waterford fans being rewarded for enduring many years of disappointment. It was lovely to see all the young kids in their white and blue jerseys run onto the pitch to swarm their heroes. What's rare can be wonderful and this was it in abundance. Those young fans will never forget their wonderful experience in Thurles that day - no matter how long they live.
While mentioning living - let me say that I have always said (in sickness and in health) that I hoped to live long enough to see Waterford win another All-Ireland Hurling Final. What I had in mind was a SENIOR one - but now that the Deise have given us a minor one - maybe it is an omen for me to prepare to depart. Or maybe we can hold on until some of these marvelous youngsters come of age to make the seniors. The memory of the 1959 All-Ireland win is fading from living memory and a new implant is needed.
Talking about the 1959 win reminds me of a good friend - Billy O'Connell (senior) of Clashmore and of when he went to that match in 1959 with a friend of his. Early on the Sunday morning - Billy with another fan - Kevin Harding set off in a very posh car for Dublin. Billy had a garage and from that he had a great choice of autos. They had every comfort on their journey and went on to enjoy the match. Then when Waterford won - against Kilkenny - they were in heaven. The long road home didn't seem so long because they stopped at every town and village to dispense their endless happiness all over. But coming through the County Kilkenny - everywhere was in darkness – they had lost so had nothing to celebrate - nothing to stay up for. Suddenly the boys saw lots of lights in a village and people were standing around on the road. It was a wake! The boys pulled up and went into the house - shook hands with the bereaved - said a prayer by the coffin - got a glass of whiskey each and set off on the road again. Many years ago - I had the pleasure of hearing that story from Billy himself.
When you live in West Waterford adjoining East Cork - the hurling rivalry between the counties is never far away. An old pal of mine - Gerald Pomphrett - used to stand atWatson's corner in Youghal to pass the time with lots of company. Sunday nights was when the folk from across the bridge came into town for the craic and the few pints. The old pubs come to mind like Paddy Maher's (the first one to be met), John Kennedy's (run by Cal - married to Mary Power from Summerhill), Aherne's and Jim McCarthy's. There was even a pub called 'The Waterford House' where Michael Bransfield had a tailoring business later. That Waterford House operated before my time but I remember the name still over the premises. With a name like that - it must have been a magnet for the fans from the 'County'. Then when the Waterford hurling team would beat Cork (often during the 1950s and 60s) - Gerald would say "We're for it tonight - they'll all be in on top of us from across the bridge to rub our noses in it". And he was right. The folk from Ardsallagh, Monatrea, Piltown, Clashmore and even Knockanore would take over the local pubs to get their revenge for all the times that Cork had beaten them. But it was all good fun and anybody who had been at the match would be sought out to tell all the details.
To go back to 1955 for a minute - Youghal won the Cork Intermediate County Final when they beat Mallow in Fermoy. But they won with the assistance of three great Knockanore Shamrocks players. Joe Moloney, Garry Griffin and Garry Moloney were the three. Joe Moloney was working in town for Pasley's at the time and so qualified to play for the town. West Waterford can claim to have a big say in winning that cup for Youghal.
Still talking about borderline hurling affairs - When Youghal Carpets (The Waterford Factory) employed over eight hundred people - at least half of that workforce came from the Deise. It included many good players from different clubs - so that when somebody proposed that Youghal Carpets should have a hurling team in the inter-firm competition - it produced an exceptional team. It consisted of Waterford and Cork players.
At the presentation of jerseys to the team in 1964:
Back row L to R: John Murray, (Managing Director of Youghal Carpets); Ned O'Connell, (selector); Billy Ryan, (Youghal club); Robbie O'Sullivan, (Youghal); Sean O'Brien, (Glanworth); Tom Cashman, (Personnel Manager Youghal Carpets); Dan O'Sullian (Youghal); Jim Nicholson, (Knockanore Shamrocks); Ritchie Swayne (Youghal); John Foley, (Abbeyside); Brian O'Brien, (General Manager Youghal Carpets); and Johnny Coyne, (Chairman Youghal G.A.A.).
Front row L to R: Pat Barry (Lismore); Joe Lawlor (Youghal); Frank Corcoran (Shamrocks); John Ryan (Youghal); Tommy O'Connell (Youghal); Olan Coleman (Youghal); Eddie Cunningham (Tallow); and Liam O'Rourke (Clashmore).
Sadly - as life passes on - ten people in the photo are R.I.P..
But back to the great achievement of the Waterford minors in winning the All-Ireland of 2025 - a closer look shows the clubs represented in the first fifteen. Ballygunner was the leader with three members, DeLaSaule had two, Roanmore two and Mount Sion two. Then St.Mary's East, Lismore, Dungarvan, Erin's Own, St. Molleran's and Geraldine's had one each.
The attendance at the ‘Men’s Shed’ in the Clashmore-Kinsalebeg G.A.A. complex following the match was exceptionally joyful at winning that All-Ireland. They hardly needed the tea and buns supplied by Rosemary this time. Most members are pensioners like myself and glad to survive to experience the wonderful win. Hope we live to see many more.
A snippet to hand now says that Margaret Foley (wife of John who played senior for Waterford) has two grand-nephews on the Waterford Minor winning team. Their surname is Quann (they are first-cousins) and one plays for Lismore and the other for Dungarvan. Margaret must be a proud woman.
Not forgetting the manager of the team – James O’Connor of Lismore who put so much time into those players over the last three years until it finally paid off.
Aris - Go raibh mile maith agaibh a cairde. Ta athas an domhain orainn. A thousand thanks - the joy of the world is upon us.
Mike Hackett - July 2025 ... See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
Well done Mike, great article. My brother-in-law John Ryan and his brother Billy on that that very talented team, who would beat a lot of senior club teams today.
Sooooooo proud to see my dad up there ❤️❤️and he is all of 91 now
Thank you Michael . I appreciate all the time and effort you put into these productions.
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Youghal · 1977 · Country Life Magazine ... See MoreSee Less
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Billy Burkes shop was next to where JDs is , previously known as Daly’s pub.
When Cal Flavin moved to North Main Street it had a knock on affect.
Before Cal Flavins was Paddy O Gorman's Drapery shop across the the road on the corner was Mason Fox barber shop
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🚴♂️ 27 years ago today the Tour de France roared through Youghal on 13th July 1998 during Stage 2 of the legendary race.
📍 The peloton powered through town on the Enniscorthy to Cork route, with Ján Svorada taking the stage win.
💥 But it was Chris Boardman’s crash in Youghal that shook up the standings and changed the race.
🎥 Watch the clip, relive the memories, share your comments below 👇 ... See MoreSee Less
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We had 600 for breakfast lunch and supper booked into the walter between Stuart and Gardi
Remember watching it on TV. Found the video tape a few months ago 🤣
Jesse Hermans remember this. I still have the photos you took
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The Golden Summers of Youghal: When Friendships Were Made for Life
There was a time, before the lure of cheap flights to Spain and the promise of guaranteed sunshine, when the heart of a summer holiday for many families from Cork city beat in the seaside town of Youghal. Each year, as June rolled around, the town would transform—its streets and beaches filled with the laughter of children, the chatter of neighbours, and the unmistakable excitement of holidaymakers who came not just for a visit, but to truly belong for three whole months.
A COMMUNITY WELCOMES ITS SUMMER FAMILY
Families from Cork would pack up for the summer, relocating to Youghal and settling in with local families. In places like McCurtainstown, just a stone’s throw from the strand, the beach was a daily backdrop for adventure and play. The accommodations were simple and shared, yet somehow it just worked. The arrangement was “cheap and cheerful,” but it offered something far richer than any luxury hotel: a sense of togetherness and belonging.
For the local families, the arrival of summer guests was more than a tradition—it was a vital boost to the household budget. The modest rent helped buy school books or winter clothes, ensuring the benefits of summer lingered long after the tourists had gone home. For the visitors, it was a chance to live like locals, sharing meals, stories, and the rhythms of daily life.
BONDS THAT LASTED GENERATIONS
What made these holidays truly special were the friendships that blossomed. Children from Cork and Youghal became inseparable, building sandcastles by day and sharing secrets by night. Parents swapped recipes and stories, and even the family pets seemed to form their own summer alliances.
These bonds often endured long after the last ice cream was eaten and the final swim taken. Many families kept in touch through the winters, and some friendships have lasted through generations—children of those first holidaymakers returning decades later with families of their own, rekindling the magic of their parents’ youth.
THE TOWN ALIVE WITH JOY
It wasn’t just McCurtainstown or the strand that buzzed with life. The whole town was full: shops, amusement arcades, and local attractions thrived. There were dances in the evenings, impromptu football matches on the beach, and the kind of spontaneous community events that only happen when everyone feels like they’re part of something bigger.
BETTER THAN ANY FOREIGN HOLIDAY
These were the days when a holiday in Youghal was as good as any foreign escape. The memories made—of shared meals, endless beach days, and friendships forged in the salt air—were treasured and retold, passed down from one generation to the next. The sense of belonging and the warmth of the community made these holidays unforgettable, a golden chapter in the story of both locals and visitors.
In the end, it was a win-win for all: the town thrived, families prospered, and lifelong bonds were formed. The spirit of those summers lives on, a reminder that sometimes, the best holidays are the ones spent close to home, surrounded by friends who become family. By Michael Hussey
Photo: The Promenade in Youghal: A Catwalk of Summer Style
Afternoons on the promenade were a chance to show off the latest summer fashions. From bright sundresses to crisp shorts, everyone paraded their best, turning the walkway into a lively catwalk. The promenade buzzed with conversation, spontaneous reunions, and the excitement of new friendships forming under the warm sun. ... See MoreSee Less
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I always think one of the biggest mistakes made was taking Perks away and building that monstrosity on the front strand, we had some summers out there, swimming by day and Perks at night, even if you didn't have much money ( we always kept enough for a bag of chips and a fish cake on the way home at Doyles) you could sit on the wall across from Perks while all the latest hits blared out from the jukebox inside, like Young Girl, Hey Jude,Sugar Sugar,Day Dream Believer etc.We never remember the rainy days of summer only the hot days and balmy nights and what wonderful times they were and not a mobile phone in sight.
We spent all day every day on the beach when we got school holidays.Not a bottle of suncream between us,we didn't even know what suncream was.We were lucky to have a few pence for an ice cream or we would pool our money together and get a bag of chips in perks.We would head home when it got dusk,our parents never had to worry about us being safe it was just the way it was back then.
Well put .. as a child we got to know so many people through Dad calling the bingo in the strand palace .. one family in particular from Kildare who spent there summers in pilmore literally beside the Gaa pitch, the motherways from park also had a mobile home beside them ,@James griffin Darina Glackin Íde Motherway Koulbanis 30 + years later we still chat .so many memories of Friendships made , were great times no Internet just gang of kids messing on the beach for hours .walk to the little tuck shop at Red Barn
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Mikey Joyce: Youghal’s Lifeguard and Diving Rock Legend, 1949
This black and white photo shows the late Mikey Joyce from Youghal, who worked as a lifeguard for the Youghal Urban District Council (U.D.C.) in 1949. The lettering on his lifeguard outfit clearly reads “U.D.C. Lifeguard,” identifying his official role. Mikey was well known for his strong swimming ability, especially at the Diving Rocks below the Lighthouse. His somersault dives from the diving board were impressive and drew the attention of many beachgoers. This image captures both his dedication to beach safety and his athletic skill during that time.
Pictures: Mikey back somersaulting off the diving board beneath the Youghal Lighthouse, and Mikey on duty as a Youghal beach lifeguard back in 1949
(Photos courtesy of Liam Burke) ... See MoreSee Less
7 CommentsComment on Facebook
Yes Angela absolutely 💯 total Gentleman walked an chatted many times great stories extraordinary man
My amazing uncle Mikey ♥️
Fantastic story it should be on display.
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A Remarkable Scene on Youghal’s Claycastle Beach
This week, Youghal beachgoers were treated to an extraordinary sight: a high-stakes marine operation unfolding as part of the Celtic Interconnector project. This ambitious initiative will soon connect Ireland and France via a 565 km subsea power cable, and the latest phase has transformed Youghal’s iconic sands into a stage for global engineering.
What made the day so unusual was the juxtaposition of relaxed holidaymakers and the dramatic spectacle offshore. A specialised barge with stabilising legs stood anchored in the shallows, while excavators worked at the water’s edge and teams of experts coordinated months of meticulous planning. Families and sunbathers gathered along the beach, watching the operation as if it were a live documentary, captivated by the precision and scale of the project.
This unique blend of local curiosity and international ambition has given Youghal a starring role in a project that will power hundreds of thousands of homes. Special thanks to Louise Hegarty for capturing the moment in photographs.
Don’t miss the audio interview with Brendan Sheerin, airing on the Rural Report Show with Noel Cronin on Community Radio Youghal (CRY104FM) this Saturday, 12th July, between 10 am and 12 noon. The interview will also be available on the CRY104FM website listen-back service from Sunday.
Pictures: Louise Hegarty ... See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
Nice piece of writing Mike and yes Youghal is on the map now regardless off the keyboard warriors. Great result for the space between two breakers that locals never used. Ps there was some locals that benefited from this so how bad.
Thank you for that, we were there a couple of weeks ago, and wondering what the project was, forgot to ask my cousins, lol, now I understand, brilliant technology.
Is this the connection that contains nuclear power that we won't make arselves but have no problem buying it in from other countries!!!!!