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The River Blackwater

The Blackwater or Munster Blackwater (as Gaeilge: An Abhainn Mhór, The Great River) is a river which flows through counties Kerry, Cork, and Waterford in Ireland. It rises in the Mullaghareirk Mountains in County Kerry and then flows in an easterly direction through County Cork, through Mallow and Fermoy. It then enters County Waterford where it flows through Lismore, before abruptly turning south at Cappoquin, and finally draining into the sea at Youghal Harbour.

In total, the Blackwater is 168 kilometres long. It is notable for being one of the best salmon fishing rivers in the country.

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Blackwater Cruises is operated daily between May and September by Tony Gallagher.

To ensure your cruise is booked for a time that suits you, give Tony a ring anytime on  +353 (87) 9889076

'Maeve' is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat painted white, orange and blue. She was originally used as a passenger boat in Dingle Bay, Co. Kerry, for bringing people out to see Fungi the Dolphin but Maeve has now settled into her latest role as a ferry for those who wish to sample the hidden delights of Cork's River Blackwater.

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Blackwater Cruises

Blackwater Cruises operate daily between May and September.The best way to book your cruise is to call Tony Gallagher on his mobile phone. To ensure your cruise is booked for the time that suits you best, just give Tony a ring anytime.

The Tour We leave from Youghal jetty and travel North up the River Blackwater, past Rhincrew and towards the old bridge and the remains of Templemichael Castle. Passing Molana Abbey on the left, we enter a tranquil, unspoilt area of natural beauty, as yet untouched by urban development. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes subject to weather and tides.

The Boat ‘Maeve’ is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat painted white, orange and blue. She was originally used as a passenger boat in Dingle Bay, Co. Kerry, for bringing people out to see Fungi the Dolphin but Maeve has now settled into her latest role as a ferry for those who wish to sample the hidden delights of Cork’s River Blackwater. Maeve is Captained by Tony Gallagher and his first mate, Pharaoh.

The Blackwater The Blackwater or Munster Blackwater (as Gaeilge: An Abhainn Mhór, The Great River) is a river which flows through counties Kerry, Cork, and Waterford in Ireland. It rises in the Mullaghareirk Mountains in County Kerry and then flows in an easterly direction through County Cork, through Mallow and Fermoy. It then enters County Waterford where it flows through Lismore, before abruptly turning south at Cappoquin, and finally draining into the sea at Youghal Harbour.

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Phone: +353(87)9889076

Monday to Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm. Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm. Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

Phone: +353(58)41741

Email: [email protected]

Dungarvan Tourist Information Office, 51 Main Street, (Parnell Street), Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, Ireland

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Blackwater cruises.

Captained by Tony Gallagher and his faithful first mate,”Pharaoh”, “Maeve Og” sails you through amazing history on the majestic River Blackwater…..

Pontoon, Grattan St, Youghal

‘Maeve Og’ is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat painted white, orange and blue. “Maeve Og” will leave from Youghal jetty, adjacent to Youghal Visitor Centre, and travel North up the River Blackwater, past Rhincrew and towards the old bridge and the remains of Templemichael Castle. Passing historic Molana Abbey on the left, we enter a tranquil, unspoilt area of natural beauty, as yet untouched by urban development.

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, subject to weather and tides.  The boat may also be chartered for longer trips. “Maeve Og” is captained by Tony Gallagher and his faithful first mate,”Pharaoh”. Simply give Tony a ring to book your cruise.

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Where in Youghal

11 Of The Best Things To Do In Youghal (And Nearby)

By Author Johnny Friel

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

There are plenty of things to do in Youghal, regardless of when you visit.

This magical seaside town is also the most easterly of the many towns in Cork and, for some strange reason, it often gets missed by those visiting the Rebel County.

While it’s name and location is elusive to many, this hidden gem in the Ancient East has been a popular tourist spot since the mid 19th century.

In the guide below, you’ll discover heaps of things to do in Youghal, from incredible walks and historic landmarks and to plenty to see and do nearby.

Table of Contents

Our favourite things to do in Youghal

Photo by Kieran Moore (Shutterstock)

The first section of our guide tackles  our  favourite things to do in Youghal, from coffee from Priory to rambles along Youghal Beach.

1. Kick start your visit with something tasty from Priory Coffee Co.

Photos via Priory Coffee on Facebook

This little cafe is a must for coffee fans visiting Youghal. There is a wide selection of gourmet toasties on offer, from smoked chicken to goat’s cheese to veggie ploughmans. The wraps here are ideal for the health-conscious like the smashed avocado with feta and peppers.

Aside from tasty toasties and wraps, there are pastries, cakes and many other treats. You have your breakfast and brunch classics here too like eggs Benedict however brunch is only until 12pm.

Related read:  Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Youghal (from fancy feeds to cheap and tasty eats)

2. The ramble down to the Youghal Clock Gate Tower

Photo by Corey Macri (Shutterstock)

A visit to the Clock Gate Tower is arguably one of the most popular things to do in Youghal and you’ll find it in the centre of the town.

Standing at 24 metres in hight, this historic landmark boasts a rich history that dates back over 700 years, and you can learn all about it on the tour.

The tour offers a unique sensory experience in the Merchants Quarters where you can smell spices and see smooth silks. You can also see the gaol cell and catch panoramic views from the top of the tower.

3. Gulp down a lungful of sea air with a walk on Youghal Beach

Youghal is home to some of the best beaches in Cork . The great thing about Youghal is that there are actually 4 beaches. Claycastle and Redbarn beach actually join together creating a 3 mile stretch.

This is great spot for a ramble and there are lots of spots for a picnic or to kick back with a coffee. Public car park and toilet facilities are conveniently onsite too.

Front Strand Beach and Claycastle Blue Flag beach are also both within walking distance of the town centre. 

4. Step back in time at The Raleigh Quarter

Photo by jean morrison (Shutterstock)

Situated in Youghal’s historic centre is Youghal’s Raleigh Quarter . This hidden gem was restored over many years and gives visitors a powerful insight into the town’s turbulent past.

You can take a tour of St Mary’s Collegiate Church, either self-guided with audio or with a tour guide/storyteller. You can also visit the interactive interpretive centre, where you can see the timeline from 1,220 to present day.

If you head to the 13th century town walls, you can get some panoramic views of the town and there is an ancient graveyard trail to explore. Or you can just relax in the medieval gardens.

5. Take a cruise along the beautiful Blackwater River

There is no better way to enjoy the Blackwater river than by climbing aboard a boat and sailing down it. “ Maeve Og ” is a 28ft half-decker fishing boat that also operates as a tour boat.

You can start the voyage from Youghal jetty which is opposite the Youghal Visitor Centre and then head north up the river, past Rhicrew and then towards the old bridge.

You will also get a glimpse of the castle runs of Templemichael before reaching an unspoiled area full of natural beauty.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Youghal, you can’t go wrong with a river cruise. The whole tour lasts around 90 minutes though the boat can be chartered for longer trips.

Things to do in Youghal when it’s lashing down

Photos via Aura Youghal Leisure Centre on Facebook

The next section of our guide is packed with things to do in Youghal when it’s lashing down. Below, you’ll find everything from the Funfair to the cinema and much more.

1. Perks Funfair & East Cork Superbowl

Photo via Perks Funfair

If you’re in search of things to do in Youghal with kids, look no further than this place . Interestingly enough, the 70,000 sq ft Perks Funfair is one of the biggest of its kind in Ireland.

There is a large selection of games, rides, attractions on offer along with what’s called a ‘showboat casino’… no, I don’t know what that is either.

2. Youghal Heritage Centre

Photo via Google Maps

Situated within the Tourist Officer in the old Market House and overlooking the Youghal quay and jetty is the heritage centre .

You can find a whole range of exhibits rich in history, from the artefacts to the detailed illustrations to 3d models and more.

Visitors can discover how this little seaside town was shaped by prominent figures throughout its history while also getting a glimpse at what life was like many years ago.

Another great reason to visit is that it’s free! It’s also open all year round and the staff are more than happy to help you with any questions you might have. 

3. Catch a movie at The Regal Cinema

Photo via Regal Cinema Youghal on Facebook

Ok so you can go to the cinema just about anywhere but what about Irelands oldest cinema? Built sometime in 1936, this stunning cinema reopened back in the summer of 2018 after a year-long renovation.

There are 2 screens which show the latest Hollywood blockbusters and the old classics as well. Movies are projected on high definition 4k digital technology.

The cinema comes with a luxurious mezzanine level in screen 1, occasionally used as a private space for events. Film fanatics can also enjoy a glass of wine upstairs in the new Regal Wine Bar & Cafe.

4. Head for a swim at Aura

If the weather calls for a day indoors but you still want to get your feet wet, then the Aura Leisure Centre is your best bet.

The leisure centre comes with state of the art facilities and an extensive selection of exercise equipment if you fancy a workout. The indoor aerobics studio offers a diverse range of classes like pilates, indoor cycling and boxercise.

The 25 metre swimming pool is the real draw here. If yo’re not a member, don’t stress as you can pay as you go.

Things to do near Youghal

Photo by mikemike10 (Shutterstock)

So, while there are plenty of things to do in Youghal, there are 5 times as many places to visit nearby, which make Youghal a great base to explore from.

Below, you’ll find heaps of things to do near Youghal, from cliff walks and historic sites to hikes, Cork City and much more.

1. The Ardmore Cliff Walk (21 mins away)

Photo by Chris Hill

This 4km walk will take you on a journey through stunning seascapes, panoramic views, ancient battle sites, legends and the chance to spot some local wildlife too.

The Ardmore Cliff Walk takes roughly 1 hour to complete and it’s signposted with yellow arrows on a brown background.

Start from the village of Ardmore, head up past the Cliff House Hotel and then you go around Ardmore head and Ram head.

You will find an amazing cliff-top paths and the laneways of the Early Christian St Declan’s Well. You will also pass a shipwreck known as Sampson, which was destroyed during a heavy storm in 1988. Have a ramble along Ardmore Beach when you’re done.

2. The Ballycotton Cliff Walk (33-mins away)

Photo via Luca Rei (Shutterstock)

Next up is the brilliant Ballycotton Cliff Walk , which starts in Ballycotton and ends in Ballyandreen (or the other way round). 

The walk stretches for 3.5 km each way and much of the trail is flanked by meadows. You’ll will come across a small beach, and a plethora of coastal scenery.

This walk should be doable for people with moderate fitness levels, however, you can also just do a portion of it if you don’t fancy giving the full trail a crack. 

3. Cork City (31 mins away)

No trip to Ireland’s Ancient East would be complete without a wee trip to Cork City. Cork is a great city for exploring and it’s compact and very walkable.

You could easily conquer many of the best things to do in Cork City in just one day. The City is well-known for food (drop into the English Market ) and its lively pubs .

There is also Cork City Gaol , the Butter Museum , the mighty Elizabeth Fort , Blackrock Castle and the beautiful Saint Finn Barre’s Cathedral . 

4. Fota Wildlife Park (32 minutes away)

Photos via Fota Wildlife Park on Facebook

Located on 100 acres at Fota Island, Fota Island Wildlife Park brings in around 440,000 visitors a year. It’s also the second biggest visitor attraction in Ireland outside of Leinster.

There are all kinds of animals here and you can observe them in habitats replicated like the ones that they would live in in the wild. There’s also plenty of things to do in Cobh when you finish.

FAQs about the best things to do in Youghal

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from active things to do in Youghal to where to visit nearby.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Youghal?

Head for a ramble along Youghal Beach, visit the Raleigh Quarter and see the often-missed Youghal Clock Gate Tower.

Where is there to visit close to Youghal?

There’s an endless number of things to see and do near Youghal, from cliff walks and scenic hikes to Cork City and much more (see above).

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Discover Youghal

Explore our unspoilt coastal haven.

Picturesque and tucked into a postcard-pretty coastline, Youghal is a seaside town just an hour’s drive from Cork and Waterford cities.

Colourful streetscapes, three blue-flag beaches, maritime and historical heritage, architectural richness and a growing foodie culture are just some of the reasons to #LoveYoughal .

The Great Outdoors

Youghal surrounds you with nature at her best – blending coast, countryside and greenway splendour. There are 5km of sandy beaches to enjoy and thrilling off- and on-road cycle routes to explore. Take stunning walks along the shore, through woodlands as well as the preserved marshlands along The Slob Bank and in Ballyvergan.

Here you can do it all – bird watching, horse-riding, yoga on the beach, Ironman training, golfing at one of Ireland’s best parkland courses and so much more. Or, you can simply kick back and cast your fishing line off one of the town’s pretty quays.

COMING SOON! Our beautiful new Greenway from Youghal to Midleton.

On The Water

Water lovers rejoice! With a stunning 5km stretch of sandy beach and rugged shoreline you can take in the beauty of Youghal Bay on foot or by bike, then explore the Blackwater River by boat. Fall in love with the lush, Irish countryside and incredible historical sites as you go. Or, charter a boat for some deep-sea diving or fishing. Take to your surfboard, kayak or paddleboard and head out to the magnificent open water.

You’ll also discover there’s a whole lot more to Youghal beach life -from sunrise yoga on the shore to wild swimming or a fabulously relaxing sauna on the beach.

Time-travelling Youghal’s Heritage

As a designated heritage town and one of the finest examples of a Norman-walled town in Ireland, Youghal has many fascinating stories to tell. The town is renowned for its well-preserved historical buildings reflecting several architectural styles dating back to the Middle Ages. 

Take a guided historical walking tour including the Raleigh Quarter, named for its illustrious past resident, Sir Walter Raleigh. Enjoy an immersive visitor experience at St Mary’s Collegiate Church and be enthralled by a history alive tour of the iconic Youghal Clock Gate Tower.

Make more of those memories that last forever. With miles of safe, sandy beaches, cycle routes and a soon-to-open Greenway, Youghal is made for families to explore and experience together.

There’s plenty of indoor entertainment too, a fabulous calendar of fun festivals and events through the year, and every possible kind of eatery. Your family will love a visit to the family-friendly ‘Voices of St. Mary’s’ audio-tour at St Mary’s Collegiate Church while at Youghal Clock Gate Tower, you can join an entertaining costumed guide who’ll take you on an immersive journey through the tower’s five floors.

Live Events & Festivals

Youghal boasts an impressive schedule of year-round cultural and music events. The Mall Arts Centre and unique St Mary’s Collegiate Church play host to Ireland’s musical icons and emergent artists, while every year, the town buzzes with vibrant festivals that include the international Ironman Ireland event, the colourful Youghal Medieval Festival and the spooky Halloween Festival.

Youghal’s History

Youghal’s recorded history goes back to the days of the Vikings. Take a moment to whet your appetite with some historical highlights here .

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'We love welcoming people': Museums in Youghal bring new life and old memories

Susan Hegarty, municipal district officer for East Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, deputising for the Mayor of the County of Cork, Ger Flanagan, chairman of Youghal Business Alliance, Mary Houlihan, programme manager with Fáilte Ireland, and Aimee Scanlon, Ireland’s Ancient East with Fáilte Ireland, at the official opening of Youghal’s Film and Photography Museum and Youghal’s Kathleen and May Experience. Picture: John Hennessy

THE visitor experience to sweet Youghal Bay and the town of Youghal has been enhanced by the recent opening of the Youghal Film and Photography Museum and the Kathleen & May Experience Museum on Main Street.

The Youghal Lace Museum is opening in September.

Cutting the ribbon at the official opening, deputy county mayor Mary Linehan Foley, extended a warm céad míle fáilte to the droves of dignitaries, locals and visitors who turned up for the occasion.

“We love welcoming people to this wonderful town and surrounds in east Cork,” said Ms Foley.

“Youghal has so much going for it; people have fierce pride in their town.

“These museums are a testament to our vibrant spirit. They are a window into our past, a chance to revive the magic of cinema, and to honour the remarkable Kathleen & May.”

The people of Youghal are can-do people.

“These museums wouldn’t be here without the extraordinary dedication of our volunteers,” added Ms Foley.

“These are the people who poured their hearts, time and passion into bringing these projects to life. Filling empty shops with cultural spaces like this is exactly what we need to attract visitors and to energise Youghal.”

Both themed museums on Main Street were two of a hundred or more empty business premises in Youghal. A group of community activists got together and requested that a small niche of museums be created on Main Street to attract more people into the town.

“The vacant premises were a sad reality, but also a real opportunity,” said chairman of Youghal Heritage, Bryan Mohally.

“I’ve lived here for 40 years now, and Main Street always looked sad.”

That all changed as enthusiastic community volunteers prepared to open the doors of the first two historical museums; Youghal Film and Photography Museum, (YFPM), in what used to be a butcher’s shop and the Kathleen & May Experience Museum by the Clock Tower.

“People can come here and dive into the rich tapestry of Youghal’s film and photography heritage,” said Michael Hussey, graduate of the BA in Film and Screen Media UCC.

The exhibits of digitalised photos which together with vintage footage, reflects much of Ireland’s social, political and sporting history through the prism of local communities.

“Here at YFPM, every image tells a story and every frame preserves a piece of history.”

The wealth of archival material including film, photographs and vintage cameras include 1,000 photographs seldom seen. The depiction of the filming of Moby Dick in 1954 is of particular interest to locals.

“There was once a shop, Pop Donovan, perched on the cliff near the lighthouse,” said local historian Dr Kieran Groeger.

“It was very attractive shop, and the photograph of the shop and the background is magnificent. The iconic photo reminds people of a lot of good memories.”

A historic incident during the Irish Civil war was also recorded on camera.

“Michael Collins’ troops took over Youghal, and proceeded to climb the Clock Tower and place the Irish flag atop the tower,” added Mr Groeger.

“In the chemist shop across the road, someone took a photo of the amazing sight.” We can see the historical scene in the YFPM Museum in all its glory.

“The role of Youghal’s Horgan Brothers, Jim Tom, and film who were the first filmmakers in Ireland and pioneers in the evolution of film and Photography in Ireland in the late 1800s, is well documented.” A familiar sight over the years sailing into Youghal Bay, photographs of the Kathleen & May over the years are also housed on Main Street.

“It was a fantastic boat,” said Mr Groeger.

The Kathleen & May is the only remaining three-masted wooden topsail schooner and her history describes her second maiden voyage to Youghal.

“The owner had three daughters,” added Mr Groeger.

“One boat he named Nellie Fleming, and he named this boat the Kathleen & May. We approached the Government with the suggestion of putting the boat into dry dock here as a tourist attraction but that was knocked back. The reason being it would cost between €140,000 to €150,000 a year.”

People seeking to visit a piece of history can travel by road, boat or automobile to Youghal.

“We had a small contingent of tour guides and travel agents, 20, visit the museums for the opening,” said Mr Groeger.

“They arrived by boat.

“And there are two cruise ships arriving here in August. Camera clubs and community clubs around Ireland are showing huge interest in visiting the museums and we can cater for them out-of-hours with a knowledgeable committee member on site to provide background information if needs be.” Kieran is excited to be involved in the promotion of the town he loves so well.

“Our museums are a treasure trove of cinematic and photographic wonders now available to everybody,” added Mr Groeger.

From little acorns, oak trees grow.

“The regeneration of the town is very important to us,” said Mr Mohally.

“Youghal should be our Kinsale. We pride ourselves on our town.” There are future plans afoot to revitalise the footfall on Main Street.

“Going forward we hope to open cafes and souvenir shops in the museums,” added Mr Mohally.

“We are very fortunate to have many interested people on board, including Youghal Active Retirement Association (YARA).

The massive community effort is putting Youghal firmly on the map.

“It is a combined community effort,” said Mr Mohally.

“Everybody, young and old rolled up their sleeves to provide their skills and manpower to get the show on the road.”

• YFPM availed of county council loan, €9,000. The Department of Film and Screen Media are associated with the project now open to the public 11m-4pm Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays.

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