Youghal Lace Museum: Celebrating A Timeless Irish Craft

Step inside the new Youghal Lace Museum on North Main Street and discover the artistry, heritage, and culture that define this unique Irish craft. The museum’s beautifully curated interior showcases rare artefacts and exquisite examples of Youghal lace, including the remarkable wedding dress made by the nuns of the Presentation Convent. Youghal lace began in the mid-1800s, when Mother Mary Ann Smith unravelled Italian lace and taught local women the intricate techniques, turning lace-making into a vital industry during the famine. Today, the museum celebrates this legacy, offering a fascinating glimpse into Youghal’s creative past and its enduring cultural pride.