Youghal, (Eochaill, meaning “yew wood” in the Irish Language) is located at the mouth of the River Blackwater one of Ireland’s largest and best known rivers. Formerly a Norman walled port, much of which can still be seen, it is now a modern seaside holiday resort.
The Visitor centre is an ideal starting point for exploring the fascinating history of this County Cork town.
This historic walled seaport town has numerous historic buildings and monuments inside the old town walls, and has been classified an Irish Heritage Port by the Irish Tourist Board.
The history of this town goes back to the Vikings and has a rich historical heritage from the time of the Normans, medieval times and especially the Elizabethan period when Sir Walter Raleigh owned all the surrounding area and resided in Youghal for a time. Subsequently starting with Sir Richard Boyle, Youghal became an important seaport, industrial centre and strategic military location which developed through the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries and lasted right up to the 20th century.
Nowadays Youghal is mainly a tourist area where visitors can experience the past and enjoy the various maritime activities like sea fishing, sailing and diving. A great attraction for families is Perks Entertainment Centre which is one of the biggest indoor funfairs in Ireland and contains rides, games, bowling, a play centre a casino and much more.
Festivals in Youghal
There are quite a few festivals here including the Moby Dick Festival (June Bank Holiday weekend), Queen of The Sea Festival (mid – July), Youghal Medieval Festival (mid-August) and the Mackerel Festival (August).
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Restaurants in Youghal
Being a coastal town with a long association with shipping and fishing many of the restaurants here have an emphasis on seafood but there is a wide array of styles in the area including a number of ethnic restaurants.Some of the recommended restaurants are Aherne’s Seafood Restaurant, La Bella Roma, Parkview Restaurant at The Walter Raleigh Hotel, Pak Fook Gardens Chinese Restaurant and The Coach House.
Youghal Beach
Front Strand Beach is a nice sandy beach just beside the town. It is suitable for families, picnics and walking as there is plenty of entertainment nearby. There is a car park and toilet facilities in this area.