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.

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Merricks Drapery & Boot Stores, Youghal, Co. Cork · December 10th 1968 · Photographer: James P ODea · Colourised and enhanced by Kieran McCarthy · YoughalOnline

Merrick's Drapery & Boot Stores, Youghal, Co. Cork · December 10th 1968 · Photographer: James P O'Dea · Colourised and enhanced by Kieran McCarthy · YoughalOnline ... See MoreSee Less

2 days ago

37 CommentsComment on Facebook

Nothing beat the excitement of climbing the stairs and going into the toy shop there. I can still rem stepping on those stairs and there was a bit of a bounce in them Looking through the toys to see what we could get from our pocket money , there was always , small cheap “ pocket money “ toys on the shelf , or packs of little playing cards in packs labelled Old Maid or Donkey My heart would skip a beat going up that stairs to the first floor

Marguerite Lawlor... how much were the bwown Sox???🤣😂🤣

That's when two way traffic was alive and well and living in Youghal. Happy Days.

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The Dilapidated Town of Youghal - Help is needed badly and quickly! By Mike Hackett

When a certain government minister some years ago decided to abolish the local Urban Town Councils - he did a terrible disservice to small towns.  Then he went off to a job in Brussels and left us to fight amongst ourselves to survive in bigger local authority areas. It means competing with other towns for the support available and - where there is outnumbered representation - the pot is empty and some lose out.

Youghal is one such neglected town with little support.  It is at the fringe of County Cork and for bad measure it is Y for Youghal - so that when the money is being distributed - it is last on the list and the pot is empty.  

Permit me to take you on a quick walk through Youghal town to prove my point.

Coming from the Cork direction - we first encounter the Seafield Fabrics building - a tribute to Willie Dwyer of Cork City but now looking very forlorn.  A little further on is the start of the greenway that runs as far as Midleton.  This is a white-elephant and only suitable for runners and cyclists.  A far better option would have been to restore the railway line along that land corridor.  

Comparisons were made with the Waterford greenway - but there are none.  From Dungarvan to Waterford you have high terrain with views of the sea plus a long tunnel and even a high viaduct.  The Midleton to Youghal greenway is between hedges and fields. The best views here are of the different types of cow arses. 

Moving towards town - we see Moll Goggins Corner - the best look-out post on this part of the coast.  Some years ago money was allocated to replace the plateau and seats - but its not done yet.  We come to the Lighthouse - standing majestically in the middle of a town - perhaps the only one of that kind on the whole island.  Since Irish Lights handed it over to the local authority - it has never been painted.  Instead of a white lighthouse - we now have a very grey one.  And did you know that it was painted one time by the famous Brendan Beehan.  He was a painter by profession and painted Irish lighthouses around the coast for a couple of years in his younger life.  He left his name on one of the inner walls.   

Walking downhill - our attention is drawn to the hulk of the ruin of the Loreto School high up on the left as it overlooks the lovely Green Park.  Such an awful sight reminds me of what the hungry people of Gaza are enduring nowadays with the bombed buildings.   
Rounding the corner at Pearse Square - we see the remainder of the once fine Devonshire Hotel - now boarded up.  A pub at the end of that street - the onetime Shamrock Inn is about to fall onto the street - as are three more premises further on.  Where is the Health and Safety code now ?  This reminds me of an incident one morning in 1960 when the front wall of a hardware store on North Main Street fell onto the street and roadway - just after the kids had passed by walking to school.  Could it happen again ? 

The most well-known building in town is the Clock Gate Tower and it is so shabby.  Could the limestone front be cleaned before it goes green and could the weeds (starting to grow again on the windows) be removed. 

And now we reach the site of a promised new library - beside the protected structure of the Benedictine Priory.  This site has been checked for relics etc. for some years now and the cost of building the library has gone from a million euro to approx ten million euro  - with no sign of any structure.  

Along the riverside of the Blackwater river is a mile long walk called the Slob Bank - and it was to be enhanced with a proper footpath.  Only half has been done - the rest is rough and not encouraged as a walkway.  

The town walls are listed as the third best example in Ireland and the work of restoring the last section of them has been frozen in limbo for some years now.  The job needs to be completed and the fencing needs to be removed

Keane Park on the Quarry Road was a lovely leisure centre before the powers-that-be decided to change the make-up of it.  Like the Slob Bank - it was half done and is now railed off for safety and is out of use.  

And lastly on the list for now - we encounter the North Road where there is just a low eighteen inch wall to keep the busy main road traffic from going into the river to be drowned.  Again where is Health and Safety?  

Now let us acknowledge and admire the optimism of some local volunteers and Credit Union who are rowing against the tide of bad administration.  They have opened a lace museum, a cinema-photography one and another about maritime affairs – all housed in separate shops along the main streets.  Their will to survive is remarkable.   And talking about museums – a full museum has been promised in the now empty fine stone courthouse building – but when.  It is awful that a walled town with so much history has no proper museum while depending on a few volunteers to set up small ones.  

Despite all the neglect – nobody can take away our lovely five mile long beach – nor our Blackwater river  - nor our woodland and nearby mountains.  Nature gave them to us and we’re keeping them. 

Please note that this is not a political broadcast - but merely the views of a neutral non-political old age pensioner who is so frustrated watching his town fall apart.  
Thank you for bearing with me - Mile Buiochas Duit. 
Mike Hackett - townie of Youghal  - June 2025.

Images: As Youghal supposedly basks in the summer sun, a far darker reality emerges: a landscape scarred by derelict buildings that mock any semblance of a charming tourist destination. Crumbling facades and boarded-up windows stand as grim monuments to civic neglect. The perpetually long-awaited viewing platforms at Moll Goggins Corner and the elusive Youghal Library remain pipe dreams, mere whispers against a backdrop of decay. Even Cromwells Arch, a historic gem, suffers a Watergate scandal of neglect, becoming a dirty, unwelcoming lane. Instead of showcasing its heritage, Youghal presents a disheartening tableau of broken promises, leaving visitors with a bitter taste of disappointment amid the supposed peak season.Image attachmentImage attachment+Image attachment

The Dilapidated Town of Youghal - Help is needed badly and quickly! By Mike Hackett

When a certain government minister some years ago decided to abolish the local Urban Town Councils - he did a terrible disservice to small towns. Then he went off to a job in Brussels and left us to fight amongst ourselves to survive in bigger local authority areas. It means competing with other towns for the support available and - where there is outnumbered representation - the pot is empty and some lose out.

Youghal is one such neglected town with little support. It is at the fringe of County Cork and for bad measure it is Y for Youghal - so that when the money is being distributed - it is last on the list and the pot is empty.

Permit me to take you on a quick walk through Youghal town to prove my point.

Coming from the Cork direction - we first encounter the Seafield Fabrics building - a tribute to Willie Dwyer of Cork City but now looking very forlorn. A little further on is the start of the greenway that runs as far as Midleton. This is a white-elephant and only suitable for runners and cyclists. A far better option would have been to restore the railway line along that land corridor.

Comparisons were made with the Waterford greenway - but there are none. From Dungarvan to Waterford you have high terrain with views of the sea plus a long tunnel and even a high viaduct. The Midleton to Youghal greenway is between hedges and fields. The best views here are of the different types of cow arses.

Moving towards town - we see Moll Goggin's Corner - the best look-out post on this part of the coast. Some years ago money was allocated to replace the plateau and seats - but it's not done yet. We come to the Lighthouse - standing majestically in the middle of a town - perhaps the only one of that kind on the whole island. Since Irish Lights handed it over to the local authority - it has never been painted. Instead of a white lighthouse - we now have a very grey one. And did you know that it was painted one time by the famous Brendan Beehan. He was a painter by profession and painted Irish lighthouses around the coast for a couple of years in his younger life. He left his name on one of the inner walls.

Walking downhill - our attention is drawn to the hulk of the ruin of the Loreto School high up on the left as it overlooks the lovely Green Park. Such an awful sight reminds me of what the hungry people of Gaza are enduring nowadays with the bombed buildings.
Rounding the corner at Pearse Square - we see the remainder of the once fine Devonshire Hotel - now boarded up. A pub at the end of that street - the onetime Shamrock Inn is about to fall onto the street - as are three more premises further on. Where is the Health and Safety code now ? This reminds me of an incident one morning in 1960 when the front wall of a hardware store on North Main Street fell onto the street and roadway - just after the kids had passed by walking to school. Could it happen again ?

The most well-known building in town is the Clock Gate Tower and it is so shabby. Could the limestone front be cleaned before it goes green and could the weeds (starting to grow again on the windows) be removed.

And now we reach the site of a promised new library - beside the protected structure of the Benedictine Priory. This site has been checked for relics etc. for some years now and the cost of building the library has gone from a million euro to approx ten million euro - with no sign of any structure.

Along the riverside of the Blackwater river is a mile long walk called the Slob Bank - and it was to be enhanced with a proper footpath. Only half has been done - the rest is rough and not encouraged as a walkway.

The town walls are listed as the third best example in Ireland and the work of restoring the last section of them has been frozen in limbo for some years now. The job needs to be completed and the fencing needs to be removed

Keane Park on the Quarry Road was a lovely leisure centre before the powers-that-be decided to change the make-up of it. Like the Slob Bank - it was half done and is now railed off for safety and is out of use.

And lastly on the list for now - we encounter the North Road where there is just a low eighteen inch wall to keep the busy main road traffic from going into the river to be drowned. Again where is Health and Safety?

Now let us acknowledge and admire the optimism of some local volunteers and Credit Union who are rowing against the tide of bad administration. They have opened a lace museum, a cinema-photography one and another about maritime affairs – all housed in separate shops along the main streets. Their will to survive is remarkable. And talking about museums – a full museum has been promised in the now empty fine stone courthouse building – but when. It is awful that a walled town with so much history has no proper museum while depending on a few volunteers to set up small ones.

Despite all the neglect – nobody can take away our lovely five mile long beach – nor our Blackwater river - nor our woodland and nearby mountains. Nature gave them to us and we’re keeping them.

Please note that this is not a political broadcast - but merely the views of a neutral non-political old age pensioner who is so frustrated watching his town fall apart.
Thank you for bearing with me - Mile Buiochas Duit.
Mike Hackett - townie of Youghal - June 2025.

Images: As Youghal supposedly basks in the summer sun, a far darker reality emerges: a landscape scarred by derelict buildings that mock any semblance of a charming tourist destination. Crumbling facades and boarded-up windows stand as grim monuments to civic neglect. The perpetually "long-awaited" viewing platforms at Moll Goggins Corner and the elusive Youghal Library remain pipe dreams, mere whispers against a backdrop of decay. Even Cromwell's Arch, a historic gem, suffers a "Watergate scandal" of neglect, becoming a dirty, unwelcoming lane. Instead of showcasing its heritage, Youghal presents a disheartening tableau of broken promises, leaving visitors with a bitter taste of disappointment amid the supposed peak season.
... See MoreSee Less

2 days ago

103 CommentsComment on Facebook

Very perfectly written and sadly there are more issues than those observed here : The beautiful train station that has so much potential, the empty-promised changing/storage/shower facility at Claycastle car park, and let's spare a thought for the ruined market square. It's a crying shame www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVYhTRZKEOk I don't think the link is working but ye all should take a look at "Town out of time" on YouTube. It was made in 2010 about the downfall of Youghal. It's awful to see how nothing has improved.

I had nothing going on today, so I packed a lunch, caught the early bus to Midleton and walked back to Youghal. Saw some lovely cow arses, a few kitties, 40 or more types of blooming plants, a couple of murals, a 900 year old ruin, said hello to a couple of dozen people and had a fine five hours communing with nature. Capped it off with a pint and wings at Clancy's. Sadly, FB won't allow me to share any of my photos from the day in the comments

Well spoken,Mike.I knew when you visited with me this week, that that 'bee in your bonnet was about to explode!

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Why Cork Should Go the Whole Hog and Rename the Airport After Rory Gallagher - By Michael Hussey

Last week’s unveiling of “Rory Gallagher Avenue” at Cork Airport was, for many, a touching tribute to one of Ireland’s greatest musical sons. As a lifelong fan and someone who had the privilege of seeing Rory perform live in Cork City Hall, I was delighted to see his name in lights once again. Yet, as the dust settles on the ceremony and the social media “hullabaloo” fades, I can’t help but feel that this gesture, while heartfelt, falls short of truly honouring the late, great guitarist’s legacy.

Let’s be honest: naming an avenue after Rory Gallagher is nice, but for a man of his stature, it’s more than a bit twee. Rory was not just a local hero; he was, and remains, an international icon who put Cork on the musical map. His influence stretches far beyond the city’s borders, touching the lives of fans from Youghal to Yokohama.

A LESSON FROM LIVERPOOL
If we look across the Irish Sea, we see how Liverpool has embraced its musical heritage. The decision to rename their airport “Liverpool John Lennon Airport” was more than a nod to nostalgia. It was a bold statement that has paid dividends, both culturally and economically. The airport is now a beacon for Beatles fans worldwide, generating an estimated £340 million annually for the city region, with a significant slice of that directly linked to Beatles tourism.

The Beatles’ legacy brings in 1–2 million visitors each year, supports thousands of jobs, and has cemented Liverpool’s reputation as a city of music. While Rory Gallagher may not have sold as many records as the Fab Four, his legacy is no less important to Cork and to Irish music as a whole.

RORY’S ROOTS RUN DEEP
Rory Gallagher’s connection to Cork is profound. He lived above his grandmother’s pub on MacCurtain Street, jammed with friends in Youghal, and began his international journeys from Cork Airport itself. His music library and bronze memorial sculpture in the city centre are testament to his enduring influence, as are the annual festivals that draw fans from all over the globe.

Rory was a trailblazer, a unifying figure in Irish rock, and a true ambassador for Cork. To this day, his music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

THE CASE FOR “CORK RORY GALLAGHER AIRPORT”
Renaming Cork Airport after Rory Gallagher would be far more than a symbolic gesture. It would be a powerful act of recognition, putting Cork on the global stage as a city that celebrates its cultural icons. The economic benefits could be substantial: music tourism is big business, and with the right branding, Cork could attract fans from across Europe and beyond, eager to walk in Rory’s footsteps.
Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses would all benefit from increased visitor numbers, especially during festivals and commemorative events. More importantly, it would give Cork a unique identity, much as Liverpool has done with John Lennon.

TIME TO THINK BIG
While “Rory Gallagher Avenue” is a step in the right direction, it’s time for Cork to think bigger and bolder. Renaming the airport “Cork Rory Gallagher Airport” would be a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to this city and to the world. It would be a daily reminder to locals and visitors alike of Cork’s rich musical heritage and its willingness to honour those who have shaped its story.
It’s time to go the whole hog. Rory deserves nothing less.

Image: “Cork Rory Gallagher Airport - what the airport might look like with the Red and White colours of Cork. Graphic: Youghalonline
#RoryGallagher
#corkrorygallagherairport

Why Cork Should Go the Whole Hog and Rename the Airport After Rory Gallagher - By Michael Hussey

Last week’s unveiling of “Rory Gallagher Avenue” at Cork Airport was, for many, a touching tribute to one of Ireland’s greatest musical sons. As a lifelong fan and someone who had the privilege of seeing Rory perform live in Cork City Hall, I was delighted to see his name in lights once again. Yet, as the dust settles on the ceremony and the social media “hullabaloo” fades, I can’t help but feel that this gesture, while heartfelt, falls short of truly honouring the late, great guitarist’s legacy.

Let’s be honest: naming an avenue after Rory Gallagher is nice, but for a man of his stature, it’s more than a bit twee. Rory was not just a local hero; he was, and remains, an international icon who put Cork on the musical map. His influence stretches far beyond the city’s borders, touching the lives of fans from Youghal to Yokohama.

A LESSON FROM LIVERPOOL
If we look across the Irish Sea, we see how Liverpool has embraced its musical heritage. The decision to rename their airport “Liverpool John Lennon Airport” was more than a nod to nostalgia. It was a bold statement that has paid dividends, both culturally and economically. The airport is now a beacon for Beatles fans worldwide, generating an estimated £340 million annually for the city region, with a significant slice of that directly linked to Beatles tourism.

The Beatles’ legacy brings in 1–2 million visitors each year, supports thousands of jobs, and has cemented Liverpool’s reputation as a city of music. While Rory Gallagher may not have sold as many records as the Fab Four, his legacy is no less important to Cork and to Irish music as a whole.

RORY’S ROOTS RUN DEEP
Rory Gallagher’s connection to Cork is profound. He lived above his grandmother’s pub on MacCurtain Street, jammed with friends in Youghal, and began his international journeys from Cork Airport itself. His music library and bronze memorial sculpture in the city centre are testament to his enduring influence, as are the annual festivals that draw fans from all over the globe.

Rory was a trailblazer, a unifying figure in Irish rock, and a true ambassador for Cork. To this day, his music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

THE CASE FOR “CORK RORY GALLAGHER AIRPORT”
Renaming Cork Airport after Rory Gallagher would be far more than a symbolic gesture. It would be a powerful act of recognition, putting Cork on the global stage as a city that celebrates its cultural icons. The economic benefits could be substantial: music tourism is big business, and with the right branding, Cork could attract fans from across Europe and beyond, eager to walk in Rory’s footsteps.
Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses would all benefit from increased visitor numbers, especially during festivals and commemorative events. More importantly, it would give Cork a unique identity, much as Liverpool has done with John Lennon.

TIME TO THINK BIG
While “Rory Gallagher Avenue” is a step in the right direction, it’s time for Cork to think bigger and bolder. Renaming the airport “Cork Rory Gallagher Airport” would be a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to this city and to the world. It would be a daily reminder to locals and visitors alike of Cork’s rich musical heritage and its willingness to honour those who have shaped its story.
It’s time to go the whole hog. Rory deserves nothing less.

Image: “Cork Rory Gallagher Airport" - what the airport might look like with the Red and White colours of Cork. Graphic: Youghalonline
#RoryGallagher
#corkrorygallagherairport
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3 days ago

12 CommentsComment on Facebook

"Why Cork should go the whole hog and rename the airport after Rory Gallagher" Sheena Crowley

It would be rude not to & Welcome To Rory Gallagher Cork International Airport, sounds a lot better than "Welcome To Cork Quinnsworth <insert random sponsor> Airport ... Just a thought

Why not Mick Mangan airport a true son of Youghal.

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Youghal Misses Out on Cork’s €1bn Rail Revolution

Article by: Kieran McCarthy 👇

Youghal has been overlooked in Irish Rail’s massive €1 billion+ Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) plan, a tough blow that could impact the town’s economy, tourism, and future. While over €1 billion is being funneled into eight new stations like Blarney, Tivoli, and Carrigtwohill West, Youghal gets nothing.

Why This Hurts Youghal
No Commuter Link: Youghal residents face long, clogged drives on the N25 to Cork. A train could cut commute times and open jobs, but the town stays cut off.

Tourism Hit: Youghal’s beaches, medieval walls, and history draw visitors, but without rail, it can’t compete with Cobh or Midleton, that have high passenger numbers yearly. Tourists might skip us.

Economic Lag: Nearby towns with rail are booming. Youghal risks falling further behind without new residents or businesses.

The Greenway
Instead of rail, Youghal got the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, a 23km path opened in 2024, expected to draw 250,000 visitors.The greenway is great for bringing cyclists and walkers, but it’s not a replacement for a train service.

Time to Have Your Say
Irish Rail’s public consultation starts today, Wednesday, June 18, 2025. This is your chance to demand a train line.

New platforms, twin-tracking, and electrification are transforming Cork, but Youghal’s left out. The consultation period is now open until Wednesday, 23rd July. Your opinions are key to shaping the project’s design and deciding the CACR preferred option.

You can submit your feedback by 5pm on Friday, 18th July 2025, and help ensure Youghal’s voice is heard. A Public Consultation No.1 Feedback Report will summarise all feedback received.

Youghal deserves better. Should we fight for our train line? Share your thoughts.

Links to feedback form and further info links below in comment box 👇

Youghal Misses Out on Cork’s €1bn Rail Revolution

Article by: Kieran McCarthy 👇

Youghal has been overlooked in Irish Rail’s massive €1 billion+ Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) plan, a tough blow that could impact the town’s economy, tourism, and future. While over €1 billion is being funneled into eight new stations like Blarney, Tivoli, and Carrigtwohill West, Youghal gets nothing.

Why This Hurts Youghal
No Commuter Link: Youghal residents face long, clogged drives on the N25 to Cork. A train could cut commute times and open jobs, but the town stays cut off.

Tourism Hit: Youghal’s beaches, medieval walls, and history draw visitors, but without rail, it can’t compete with Cobh or Midleton, that have high passenger numbers yearly. Tourists might skip us.

Economic Lag: Nearby towns with rail are booming. Youghal risks falling further behind without new residents or businesses.

The Greenway
Instead of rail, Youghal got the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, a 23km path opened in 2024, expected to draw 250,000 visitors.The greenway is great for bringing cyclists and walkers, but it’s not a replacement for a train service.

Time to Have Your Say
Irish Rail’s public consultation starts today, Wednesday, June 18, 2025. This is your chance to demand a train line.

New platforms, twin-tracking, and electrification are transforming Cork, but Youghal’s left out. The consultation period is now open until Wednesday, 23rd July. Your opinions are key to shaping the project’s design and deciding the CACR preferred option.

You can submit your feedback by 5pm on Friday, 18th July 2025, and help ensure Youghal’s voice is heard. A Public Consultation No.1 Feedback Report will summarise all feedback received.

Youghal deserves better. Should we fight for our train line? Share your thoughts.

Links to feedback form and further info links below in comment box 👇
... See MoreSee Less

4 days ago

65 CommentsComment on Facebook

I actually travelled with my Dad when he drove the Sunday specials from Kent Station to Youghal transporting hundreds of people for a day out. As it happens he was born in Youghal. He used always say it was a very short sighted decision to close the line. I think he was right.

We can cycle to the railway

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Youghal Rockers Make Big Noise in Munich

Local band The Hush have just returned from a triumphant series of gigs in Munich, Germany, where they wowed crowds across three nights – including a packed-out open-air show at the city’s birthday festival, performing to thousands of festivalgoers.

Known for their high-energy reworking of rock classics with a unique fusion style, The Hush lit up the weekend. The band features Youghal musicians Tony Kiely (guitar), Oliver Loughnane (drums & percussion), and Warren Tivy (bass & keyboards), alongside Cork’s Kevin ‘Spider’ Murphy on vocals.

They performed as The Hush, but also shared original songs from their sister project The Blackwater Hush, selling out CDs of both their original album and their live covers collection.

Their debut album Tall Tales & Fables, released under The Blackwater Hush, blends Irish storytelling with powerful rock grooves. The project represents the creative side of the band, where they write, record, and perform their own material alongside their covers work.

A heartfelt touch to the album is its dedication to Joe Horgan, a cherished local figure who had a lasting impact on Warren and Oliver growing up. Joe introduced them to the world of classic rock and helped shape their musical path. His signature is featured on the CD artwork as a tribute to his influence.

The band would like to thank the organisers of the Irish-Bayrisch Festival, Munich City Council, Munich Amp Rentals, Paul Daly, and the amazing teams at Kilian’s Irish Pub and Kennedy’s for their support and hospitality throughout the trip.

Whether playing explosive covers as The Hush or sharing original music as The Blackwater Hush, this group continues to carry the sound of Youghal and Cork proudly across borders.

For more info and updates, visit:

🎸 www.thehushrockband.com

🎵 www.theblackwaterhush.com

Photos: The band had a fantastic run of gigs in Munich, Germany – including a huge open-air show to thousands of music fans as part of the city’s annual birthday celebrations.
Photo: The late Joe Horgan - the band have dedicated their latest CD to the much loved artist.Image attachmentImage attachment+2Image attachment

Youghal Rockers Make Big Noise in Munich

Local band The Hush have just returned from a triumphant series of gigs in Munich, Germany, where they wowed crowds across three nights – including a packed-out open-air show at the city’s birthday festival, performing to thousands of festivalgoers.

Known for their high-energy reworking of rock classics with a unique fusion style, The Hush lit up the weekend. The band features Youghal musicians Tony Kiely (guitar), Oliver Loughnane (drums & percussion), and Warren Tivy (bass & keyboards), alongside Cork’s Kevin ‘Spider’ Murphy on vocals.

They performed as The Hush, but also shared original songs from their sister project The Blackwater Hush, selling out CDs of both their original album and their live covers collection.

Their debut album 'Tall Tales & Fables', released under The Blackwater Hush, blends Irish storytelling with powerful rock grooves. The project represents the creative side of the band, where they write, record, and perform their own material alongside their covers work.

A heartfelt touch to the album is its dedication to Joe Horgan, a cherished local figure who had a lasting impact on Warren and Oliver growing up. Joe introduced them to the world of classic rock and helped shape their musical path. His signature is featured on the CD artwork as a tribute to his influence.

The band would like to thank the organisers of the Irish-Bayrisch Festival, Munich City Council, Munich Amp Rentals, Paul Daly, and the amazing teams at Kilian’s Irish Pub and Kennedy’s for their support and hospitality throughout the trip.

Whether playing explosive covers as The Hush or sharing original music as The Blackwater Hush, this group continues to carry the sound of Youghal and Cork proudly across borders.

For more info and updates, visit:

🎸 www.thehushrockband.com

🎵 www.theblackwaterhush.com

Photos: The band had a fantastic run of gigs in Munich, Germany – including a huge open-air show to thousands of music fans as part of the city’s annual birthday celebrations.
Photo: The late Joe Horgan - the band have dedicated their latest CD to the much loved artist.
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4 days ago

5 CommentsComment on Facebook

Well done lads 👏

Well done 👏👏👏

Well done 🎶🎤🎸

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📽 "COME BACK TO IRELAND" 1940s IRELAND TRAVELOGUE, YOUGHAL 🎞 This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. ... See MoreSee Less

5 days ago

6 CommentsComment on Facebook

Omg I love it

Love youghal

My grandmother Essie O'briens home town, she would have still lived there then

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BONO: STORIES OF SURRENDER | Review by MICHAEL TWOMEY

Director: Andrew Dominik

1hr 26mins

There is an old joke about David Bowie that when he died he was stopped at the gates of Heaven by Saint Peter who told him they had a problem. When the star asked what the issue was, Peter mumbled, ‘God thinks hes David Bowie’. One might imagine a similar issue arising when Bono meets his end with Peter confessing, ‘We have a problem, you think you are God’. Bono is of course an easy target because his ego is so large, shoot from any distance and your darts will land. Being your own worst enemy is a perversity that the over-earnest singer wears with pride and it is in full garish display in the film adaptation of his autobiography: Stories of Surrender.

Though it presents itself as a heart on sleeve, Bono- bares-his soul retelling of his personal relationships, it feels more like a Disney edit of a Grimm fairytale about a boy who became king. That’s not to say that there are not good moments. The suffocating close ups are relieved by a number of fresh interpretations of U2’s most famous songs. The song choices are woven in tandem with the tale of Bono’s journey from frustrated, bereaved teen to wise old father figure. The telling of the story is delivered on a sparsely lit stage, Bono’s movements followed by a single light. He is backed by a small ensemble, a table and some chairs that in turn represent the most important people in his life. The theatrical setting is completed by a live audience. Stories of Surrender is a love letter from Paul Hewson to Bono. 

The beginnings of U2 plays remarkably like a scene from ‘The Commitments’. Apparently, all you need to be the biggest band in the world is for Bono to tell you that you will be the biggest band in the world. He evokes the spirit of Punk on a number of occasions, citing the Ramones as an inspiration but he couldn’t leave it there. He later refers to Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen as ‘children of punk’ in their suspicion and contempt for the entertainment establishment and in a mawkish dollop of over-cooked sentimentality he serves up an unpalatable description of Live Aid as ‘an answer to our punk prayers’, ‘for peace’ he adds. 

Punk had no such allusions. Surely he is mixing up his counter revolutionary movements. Live Aid was a hippy prayer where the white, privileged west got to feel pity for the poor black babies of Africa. The inspiration born from reminders of the black baby boxes in Irish pubs where loose change from pints of Carling could be dispensed from drunken consciences to the chime of a global sing-along. Like the patronising lyrics of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ or Lennon’s childish ‘Imagine’ the feel-good, music-can-change-the-world mantra sounds hollow and quaint in a world where very little has changed, only the extension of the gap between rich and poor.

Pop stars are not movers and shakers or politicians, nor do they toil for years doing the heavy lifting on the ground like the nurses, doctors, teachers and volunteers you will never hear about. Time and truth have not been kind to Live Aid and it is telling that Bono, for a brief moment, confesses that the money raised had little effect on hunger in Ethiopia. Not that the failing is the point, more the naivety of misrepresenting the people of Africa while basking in the glory of near canonisation for their efforts.

To his credit, Bono also touches on the subject of being a rich rock-star hypocrite but volleys the accusation into touch by asking, ‘Does it really matter in the end?’ He says it’s not the motivation but the outcomes that count. Conveniently, he leaves out the methodology. Much of what he discusses in the performance around his activism is a paper-thin analysis rather than honest appraisal, giving a sort of passive-aggressive hands off to criticism. 

Bono’s protest singer persona has always felt like a teenager who came to the adults’ party when it was already over. He wanted to be Lennon, Marley, Strummer and Springsteen. He wanted to be the voice of a generation. Unfortunately for him the stadium rock grandiosity of the 80s was no platform for protest singing. He was a decade late and an audience short. The Thatcher yuppies and MTV kids had status envy where rock n roll was about rubbing shoulders with Princess Di, shooting videos in the Bahamas and wearing yacht shoes.

There is a desperation to be understood or even liked or perhaps forgiven in Stories of Surrender. Like the protagonist, the story is bloated and over ambitious by an insistence to fit everything in. The editing is clunky in parts and leaves one wondering if the live show is a more authentic experience. All that said, Bono’s performance is at its most sincere when retelling conversations with his father. The minimalist stage setting enhances the intimacy of the stories and the dynamics between a grieving, cynical stoic and a young idealist feel very real. There is genuine warmth, humour, tragedy and love in the anecdotes. It almost has a Pinter or Beckett quality to it, if only the less is more concept could have been applied overall. With the exception of his father, Bono chases too many demons and praises too many angels in this narrative for any one of them to be memorable or garner empathy (even God gets a look in at the start but is soon forgotten as a thread). 

If there is redemption it comes when Bono admits that he struggles to surrender to anyone, his bandmates and even his wife, which makes the title of the film feel contradictory. The real issue, at least for the public figure and global activist/rock star, is that Bono struggles to surrender to himself, to Paul Hewson. He has worn his ego like a suit of armour but for many, even fans of his music, it has too often taken on the appearance of a straight jacket. This film goes some way to loosening the straps but not far enough to allow humility to break out.

BONO: STORIES OF SURRENDER | Review by MICHAEL TWOMEY

Director: Andrew Dominik

1hr 26mins

There is an old joke about David Bowie that when he died he was stopped at the gates of Heaven by Saint Peter who told him they had a problem. When the star asked what the issue was, Peter mumbled, ‘God thinks he's David Bowie’. One might imagine a similar issue arising when Bono meets his end with Peter confessing, ‘We have a problem, you think you are God’. Bono is of course an easy target because his ego is so large, shoot from any distance and your darts will land. Being your own worst enemy is a perversity that the over-earnest singer wears with pride and it is in full garish display in the film adaptation of his autobiography: Stories of Surrender.

Though it presents itself as a heart on sleeve, Bono- bares-his soul retelling of his personal relationships, it feels more like a Disney edit of a Grimm fairytale about a boy who became king. That’s not to say that there are not good moments. The suffocating close ups are relieved by a number of fresh interpretations of U2’s most famous songs. The song choices are woven in tandem with the tale of Bono’s journey from frustrated, bereaved teen to wise old father figure. The telling of the story is delivered on a sparsely lit stage, Bono’s movements followed by a single light. He is backed by a small ensemble, a table and some chairs that in turn represent the most important people in his life. The theatrical setting is completed by a live audience. Stories of Surrender is a love letter from Paul Hewson to Bono.

The beginnings of U2 plays remarkably like a scene from ‘The Commitments’. Apparently, all you need to be the biggest band in the world is for Bono to tell you that you will be the biggest band in the world. He evokes the spirit of Punk on a number of occasions, citing the Ramones as an inspiration but he couldn’t leave it there. He later refers to Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen as ‘children of punk’ in their suspicion and contempt for the entertainment establishment and in a mawkish dollop of over-cooked sentimentality he serves up an unpalatable description of Live Aid as ‘an answer to our punk prayers’, ‘for peace’ he adds.

Punk had no such allusions. Surely he is mixing up his counter revolutionary movements. Live Aid was a hippy prayer where the white, privileged west got to feel pity for the poor black babies of Africa. The inspiration born from reminders of the black baby boxes in Irish pubs where loose change from pints of Carling could be dispensed from drunken consciences to the chime of a global sing-along. Like the patronising lyrics of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ or Lennon’s childish ‘Imagine’ the feel-good, music-can-change-the-world mantra sounds hollow and quaint in a world where very little has changed, only the extension of the gap between rich and poor.

Pop stars are not movers and shakers or politicians, nor do they toil for years doing the heavy lifting on the ground like the nurses, doctors, teachers and volunteers you will never hear about. Time and truth have not been kind to Live Aid and it is telling that Bono, for a brief moment, confesses that the money raised had little effect on hunger in Ethiopia. Not that the failing is the point, more the naivety of misrepresenting the people of Africa while basking in the glory of near canonisation for their efforts.

To his credit, Bono also touches on the subject of being a rich rock-star hypocrite but volleys the accusation into touch by asking, ‘Does it really matter in the end?’ He says it’s not the motivation but the outcomes that count. Conveniently, he leaves out the methodology. Much of what he discusses in the performance around his activism is a paper-thin analysis rather than honest appraisal, giving a sort of passive-aggressive hands off to criticism.

Bono’s protest singer persona has always felt like a teenager who came to the adults’ party when it was already over. He wanted to be Lennon, Marley, Strummer and Springsteen. He wanted to be the voice of a generation. Unfortunately for him the stadium rock grandiosity of the 80s was no platform for protest singing. He was a decade late and an audience short. The Thatcher yuppies and MTV kids had status envy where rock n roll was about rubbing shoulders with Princess Di, shooting videos in the Bahamas and wearing yacht shoes.

There is a desperation to be understood or even liked or perhaps forgiven in Stories of Surrender. Like the protagonist, the story is bloated and over ambitious by an insistence to fit everything in. The editing is clunky in parts and leaves one wondering if the live show is a more authentic experience. All that said, Bono’s performance is at its most sincere when retelling conversations with his father. The minimalist stage setting enhances the intimacy of the stories and the dynamics between a grieving, cynical stoic and a young idealist feel very real. There is genuine warmth, humour, tragedy and love in the anecdotes. It almost has a Pinter or Beckett quality to it, if only the less is more concept could have been applied overall. With the exception of his father, Bono chases too many demons and praises too many angels in this narrative for any one of them to be memorable or garner empathy (even God gets a look in at the start but is soon forgotten as a thread).

If there is redemption it comes when Bono admits that he struggles to surrender to anyone, his bandmates and even his wife, which makes the title of the film feel contradictory. The real issue, at least for the public figure and global activist/rock star, is that Bono struggles to surrender to himself, to Paul Hewson. He has worn his ego like a suit of armour but for many, even fans of his music, it has too often taken on the appearance of a straight jacket. This film goes some way to loosening the straps but not far enough to allow humility to break out.
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7 days ago

1 CommentComment on Facebook

Very good Michael

TONIGHT:🎵 Sinéad McCarthy Band live at Hennessys Bar, Youghal Saturday 14th June at 10PM. Hits from the decades + modern classics. Sinéad McCarthy (vocals) | Simon Daly (guitar) | Brian Hyland (bass) | Kieran McCarthy (drums)

TONIGHT:🎵 Sinéad McCarthy Band live at Hennessy's Bar, Youghal Saturday 14th June at 10PM. Hits from the decades + modern classics. Sinéad McCarthy (vocals) | Simon Daly (guitar) | Brian Hyland (bass) | Kieran McCarthy (drums) ... See MoreSee Less

1 week ago

3 CommentsComment on Facebook

TONIGHT:🎵 Sinéad McCarthy Band live at Hennessy's Bar, Youghal Saturday 14th June at 10PM. Hits from the decades + modern classics. Sinéad McCarthy (vocals) | Simon Daly (guitar) | Brian Hyland (bass) | Kieran McCarthy (drums)

Aaw, bit more notice!!

John McCarthy If your going get your phone out and send me a video. Hopefully we will get to see your Daughter when home I'm a few weeks ❤️

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