Ardmore

Between Dungarvan and Youghal you’ll come upon the award-winning village of Ardmore just off the N25. Wrapped around a long sandy beach the picturesque village is steeped in history being one of the oldest Christian settlements in Ireland. It is also renowned for its fine 12th century Round Tower, a perfectly proportioned monument to Irish monastic life.

St Declan brought Christianity to the area before St Patrick came to Ireland and his feast day is “Pattern Day” every 24th July. Ardmore now has the famous Pattern Festival in July which draws crowds from all over Ireland with a weekend of music and entertainment throughout the village.

Ardmore caters to its thriving tourist industry with a few pubs and restaurants. Majestically overlooking the bay and village is the famous Cliff House Hotel where you can be treated to fine food in opulent surroundings.

Along the short main street and overlooking the long stretch of beach there are many pubs that cater for all with the local ‘ceol agus craic’. Translated to ‘music and fun’ you’ll hear lots of the traditional Irish music, or not, wherever and whatever you choose.

You’ll find the best in Irish art, pottery and crafts in the Ardmore craft shops displaying local and Irish talent.

A walk in the surrounding areas of Ardmore is a great way to sample the stunning views and to visit the historical sites that this town has to offer. You’ll meet locals and visitors walking along the cliff walk above Ardmore enjoying the bracing sea air. Besides the breathtaking scenery around the cliffs of Ram Head you’ll see varieties of flora and fauna, the ruins of St Declan’s Church and even the wreck of a construction ship. As you walk back Ardmore’s Round Tower will come into view against the backdrop of the Galtee and Knockmealdown Mountains.