Youghal (Eochail, "Yew Wood"; pronounced Yawl) lies on Youghal Bay on the Irish south coast. Here the Blackwater River opens out into a sea lough which forms a safe harbor for shipping. This old world little market town and fishing port is also a popular seaside resort, with good sandy beaches.
Youghal is famous for its point lace, which is
distinguished by its vivid patterns.
From the 13th C. until its destruction by the rebel Earl of Desmond in 1579 Youghal was a flourishing place. It was ruled over by Sir Walter Raleigh at the end of the 16th century and later by Richard Boyle. In 1649 it surrendered to Cromwell, who made Youghal the base for his campaigns in Ireland.
The N25, the Waterford-Cork road, traverses the town parallel to the Blackwater, dividing into two one-way streets in the old town center.