A Place Where The Past Gracefully Meets The Present
Sitting within the historic town walls in the Raleigh Quarter, St Mary’s Collegiate Church is a unique tourist attraction. With roots in 13th century Ireland, it is one of Ireland’s oldest churches and most important medieval structures.
St Mary’s has provided sanctuary during war and famine, and tranquillity in times of peace. And while the Church celebrates its past, it remains a living community hub that today hosts many concerts and musical recitals.
The ‘Voices of St Mary’s’ Audio Tour
Live the church’s unique story through the ‘Voices of St Mary’s’ immersive experience. This is a celebration of the people who have worshipped, sung, mourned and celebrated happy times in this magnificent church.
Adults and children alike will be entertained as they journey through time in the company of the Roe family as they share stories about the history of the Church and cherished family memories.
Be enthralled by …
- state-of-the-art, multi-touch interactive displays, animated illustrations, photos and graphics that recount the church’s evolution and challenges across many centuries.
- The Chapel of Remembrance which honours 200 local people who died in the First and Second World Wars.
- an introduction to famous congregation members including Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Richard Boyle and Oliver Cromwell along with a host of local families connected with the church and their unique importance to Youghal.
*The Voices of Mary’s ‘ Tour is available in English, French, German and Spanish.
Personally Guided Tour
You can also choose to book a 40-minute Personally Guided Tour, led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will recount the Church’s evolution and challenges across many centuries along with many entertaining anecdotes.
Before you leave, make your own personal connection and memory by weaving a thread in the Church’s special Visitors’ Rug.
Architectural Wonder
You’ll soon understand why this incredible 13th century oak roof structure with thickstone walls is famous for its architecture. Tomb sculpture and early woodwork and ironwork are rich with iconography and meaning, and there are many surprising artefacts – from acoustic pots set high above the choristers to amplify singing, to an ‘underfloor heating system’ of the 1820s. The church also features a Bishop’s Throne and Pulpit – both normally found only in cathedrals.
Spend some time in the Chapel of Remembrance which honours 200 local people who died in the First and Second World Wars. You’ll see how the Nave’s breathtaking East Window incorporates the crests of the families whose lives are intertwined with St Mary’s- and note the many famous names connected to the church. Sir Walter Raleigh and Oliver Cromwell both worshiped here, while The Boyle Chapel is named after the first Earl of Cork, Richard Boyle, who is buried here.
Tour Times
Audio Tours
(30 minutes)
Mon-Sat
Sun
Nov – March
10:00 -16:00
12:30 -16:00
April – Oct
9:30 – 17:00
12:30 -17:00
Guided Tours (on request)
(40 minutes)
Tour Tickets
Audio
Guided
Adult
€ 7.00
€ 8.00
Child (6-12yrs)
€ 3.50
€ 4.00
Senior/Student
€ 5.00
€ 6.00
Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children)
€ 20.00
€ 22.00
