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Youghal
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Youghal is built on a
steep riverbank on the estuary of the River Blackwater on the
coastline of East County Cork. The name of the town derives from the
yew woods which were once plentiful in the area.
Youghal is a designated Irish Heritage Town, and one of the few
towns in Ireland where the mediaeval town walls still survive. The
famous Clock Gate completed in 1777 straddles the main street and
was used as a gaol till the middle of the 19th century. The 11th
century St Mary's Collegiate Church is a definite inclusion in any
tour as it is still in use after eight centuries. Apart from the
town walls, Youghal has a most interesting heritage centre and an
excellent town trail publication is available, together with local
guided tours
The town of Youghal dates from early Christian times and mirrors
many facets of Irish History. Occupied by the Danes and then the
Normans, the town received a Charter from King John and went on to
be part of the land allocated to Sir Walter Raleigh. His home,
Myrtle Grove, is open to the public and there is a local belief that
it was here that he first planted potatoes and smoked a cigar.
The town has not avoided the 21st century entirely, though. Youghal
features as one of the well-loved tourist towns of County Cork,
boasting the largest funfair in the country. The town also has some
5km of sandy beach including 2 Blue Flag beaches. Fishing in the
River Blackwater (noted for salmon, trout and excellent coarse
fish), sailing, angling, pitch and putt and yachting are just some
of the facilities that are located either nearby or in the town.
The beautiful Youghal Golf Club is an 18 hole parkland course that
overlooks the medieval town. Its height over sea level affords the
course panoramic views of Youghal bay, the River Blackwater and the
Knockmealdown Mountains.
Youghal was used as a set for the film Moby Dick in 1954. |
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Youghal Holiday Homes - County Cork, Ireland