Well, the wait is finally over. After over 8 years of persistence and determination, Cork County Council and The Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group are delighted to announce Youghal’s most iconic landmark will open as a premier visitor attraction as part of Fáilte Ireland’s experience brand, “Ireland’s Ancient East” on Friday, 11th November 2016.
Cork County Council leased the building to The Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group (YSEDG) in 2011, with the intention that the Group would develop the building as a visitor attraction. Speaking in advance of the opening, Manager of The YSEDG, Aileen Murray, expressed hope that the people of Youghal would fully embrace the new attraction. “This is a big moment for Youghal and one that has been a long time in coming. There have been many ups and downs on the way, but we truly believe we have a produced a first-class visitor experience that will really put Youghal on the map. ”
The storyline has been a closely guarded secret to date, but the Youghal Clock Gate Tower website details the attraction is “a unique building in Ireland’s Ancient East that holds many stories – stories of pain, tragedy and rebellion, but also stories of love, friendship and generosity. Stories that are universal and timeless. On a visit to the iconic tower our storytellers will help you see Youghal Clock Gate Tower in a new and true light. The visit will give you an understanding of its significance in Youghal and the wider area over the centuries. All this under the watchful eye of the clock.”
Youghal Clock Gate Tower will open at 9.00 am on Friday, 11th November 2016. The day will be a celebration for the people of Youghal who will be invited to experience the attraction for themselves with no charge for the entire day. Tours will run ‘on the hour’ with the last tour at 5.00pm on the day. To ensure your ‘sneak preview’, entrants will be required to pre-book by phoning: 024-20769 or calling in person to Youghal Tourist Office to book tickets. A maximum of 4 tickets per person. Please note regulation dictates a maximum of 20 people per tour – so spaces are limited.
After Fridays opening, Youghal Clock Gate Tower will operate as follows:
October – March: Thursday to Sunday, 10.00 am – 5.00pm (last tour at 4.00pm)
April – September: 7 days, 9.00 am – 6.00pm (last tour at 5.00 pm)
Admission Prices:
Adult: €9.50 pp (age 18 +)
Child: €5.00 pp (age 4 +)
Family: €24.00 (2 adults + 2 children)
Student: €7.50 pp (with valid ID)
Senior: €7.50 pp (age 65+)
Group: €8.50 pp (10+ people)
For further information log onto www.youghalclockgate.ie or call 024-20769.