Here’s A Must For History Enthusiasts
You’ll enjoy an introduction to Youghal’s incredible historical richness – including the town’s well-preserved buildings and
churches and the rich array of architectural styles spanning seven centuries. Your host, Town Crier, Clifford Winser, will introduce you to:
Youghal Town Walls
Dating back to at least 1250, Youghal’s protective Anglo-Norman Town Walls are the most intact in Ireland. Around 12 feet in height they run from the once home of Sir Walter Raleigh, Myrtle Grove, to the Clock Gate Tower.
The Red House
Designed by Dutch architect Luventhen, this privately-owned building is Baroque William and Mary style (1689 – 1720) and is a rare example of a brick-built Irish townhouse.
Tynte’s Castle
Visit the only surviving example of a Youghal urban tower house – built in the late 15th century by a Cambro-Norman merchant family. In the Cromwellian period it was home to Parliamentarian soldiers and as a prison for Cromwellian supporters during the reign of King James II.
Myrtle Grove
The beautiful Elizabethan, 16th century gabled stone house was built by Sir Walter Raleigh who was former Mayor of Youghal. Legend has it that the first potatoes in Ireland were planted in the gardens here.
Boyle’s Alms Houses
The oldest surviving alms buildings in Ireland, these six houses were built in 1642 by the 1st Earl of Cork, Richard Boyle, to house veteran soldiers.
St Mary’s Collegiate Church
This majestic cruciform-shape church, which dates back to the 13th century, includes an aisled nave, north and south transepts and a tower. Take a walk through the historic graveyard to the ‘sally port’ and on to the gorgeous St Mary’s College Gardens.
