Arrive in Youghal at mid-day – check into Ahernes Townhouse Seafood Restaurant & Bar and kick off with an enjoyable and leisurely lunch.
Following lunch take a short stroll (300 metres approx ) up Church Street to “The Raleigh Quarter” , Youghal’s historic area. Here you will step into a piece of Ireland’s unique history. We recommend you visit St. Mary’s Collegiate Medieval Church and take in the wonderful a tour of this amazing site. You have a choice of tour activity here –
(i) a personally guided tour – experienced tour guides/storytellers take you around the Church pointing out the gems and telling you the associated amazing stories
(ii) a self guided audio tour – Share the emotional reunion of the Roe family as they talk about the story of the church and reveal their own family memories
(iii) a visit to the interactive interpretive centre. This whole experience is absolutely absorbing and suitable for all ages. This church has been in continuous use since the 13th century and is simply a gem.
On completion of your tour explore the Graveyard Trail and/or walk the 13th Century Town Walls & Medieval Gardens. These gardens are beautiful, peaceful, colourful and have their own mico climate – sit a while and take it all in. Allow yourself approximately 2 hours to experience The Raleigh Quarter to its fullest.
Also housed in the Raleigh Quarter are the Raleigh Quarter Artist Studios where you can see the talented resident artists at work. If art works are your thing then a trip to The Half Light Gallery on Main Street is also a must. Local artists display their wares and works – it is a treasure trove of light, magic and talent. Stop off also at Tom Scotts, its not far away, and see the wonderful display of paintings by Pauline Neville coupled with the now famous Scotts Family Bears.
Some light refreshments may now be in order. Amble down the cobbled Church Street and have the “Best Toastie in Town” at “The Nook“ – its right at the corner as you leave Church Street. Alternatively The Red Store is just across the road and they too do a seriously fine line in scones (hot or cold) with jam & cream. You will not go hungry in Youghal.
Prior to your evening meal we highly recommend that you take a trip to the Blue Flag Beach at the South of the town – a distance of 2kms, so you may wish to drive (ample car parking available) We suggest an amble along our1.9 km eco-boardwalk taking in the gentle sea air. Youghal Boardwalk is interspersed with seating and is access and user friendly to users of all abilities. You will certainly work up a fine appetite for delicious fare offered by the many restaurants in Youghal Town. Ballyvergan Marsh is mere paces away from you as you alight the Boardwalk – listen to the bird song and look out for unusual bird species. Bring your binoculars.
You deserve Dinner after your very active day – head back to base and enjoy the fine company and hospitality at Ahernes Townhouse, Seafood Restaurant & Bar.
Day 2
Following a hearty breakfast a stroll to Youghal’s Visitor Centre & Heritage Centre, on Market Square is a must. The helpful staff members are delighted to answer any queries and give assistance to all visitors. Pick up a view of the information leaflets and plan a ramble around town before your next little adventure in Youghal. Make sure to visit the informative Heritage Centre – entry is free. You will have noticed Youghal Clock Gate Tower straddling North & South Main Streets. Once a store house, for many years a gaol, for more years a family home, a visit to Youghal Clock Gate Tower is a must for all the family – tickets are available online at the Youghal Heritage Tours office just 2 doors down from the actual Tower. A Youghal Clock Gate Tower visit is an amazing experience. Check out the website for an idea of what to expect… After the Clock Gate Tower experience I’m sure fancy some refreshments. “Sage” and Rendezvous Restaurants are right beside you and the do a very nice line in home cooking and baking. Take a rest here and watch the world go by or indeed study the nice 3 D Map of Youghal which you probably picked up at Youghal Visitor Centre.
Take a River Cruise. Cruise the Blackwater River, travelling North up the River Blackwater from the jetty adjacent to the Tourist Office. This is a very relaxed Cruise and skipper Tony is a wonderful storyteller and raconteur –Blackwater Cruises operate between April and November. The trip lasts approximately 90 minutes, subject to weather and tides. Bookings may be made by telephoning Tony at 087 9889076
Following your River Cruise and with whetted appetite, lunch will be priority – The Quays Bar adjacent to the landing jetty is a very popular choice. Sit, relax enjoy lunch and watch the busy quay activity….Outdoor dining allows smashing “people watching” – everyone says hello!