Top Things to do in Ardmore
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Top 10 Things to do in Ardmore, Ireland
Ardmore's rich religious history began in the 5th century with the arrival of St. Declan. A medieval cathedral and tower stand today, offering a glimpse into period architecture—and a fantastic view of Ardmore Bay. The village itself is quaint and lively, with cafes, pubs and cottages. Several nice beaches are nearby, and visitors can explore the area on foot for more captivating views.
Restaurants in Ardmore
1. Cliff Walk Ardmore
Overall Ratings
5 based on 209 reviews
Reviewed By w610guthrie - Alexandria, United Kingdom
We walked this path in August when the weather was ideal for ambling along this scenic way.Starting from Cliff House Hotel and finishing at the round tower we took about 2 hours allowing for photo stops and having conversations with other people walking.This is exercise with a view!
2. Collegiate Church Of St. Mary
Overall Ratings
5 based on 119 reviews
Reviewed By JnVSydney - Sydney
Before going to the church, we head to the tourist centre and picked up a map of the heritage trail and the Raleigh Quarter (self guiding map), the latter incorporates, a self guided tour of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, finding historic treasures on the way. We enjoyed the pop up museum within the church walls, on display is a scale model of 1588 Youghal Medieval Town as well as lots of info on prominent figures. Within the grounds we strolled around the ancient Graveyard Trail, being sure to walk the 13th century Town Walls, enjoying the panoramic views of the town, awesome piccies to be had. last but not least was a visit to the stunning medieval Gardens. The church and its grounds were the highlight of our visito to Youghal.
3. St Declan's Well and Oratory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 123 reviews
Reviewed By christophernewman44 - Maidstone, United Kingdom
Just a short walk from the Cliff House Hotel and after an excellent lunch I needed some exercise and fresh air. 100 yards along the cliff path away from the hotel lies a fascinating place of peace. The well is probably missed by the more ardent walkers and exercise addicts, but surely a few minutes of peace and calm will generate a more friendly mind before tackling the cliff path. Very refreshing after a busy time.
4. Youghal Clock Gate Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 58 reviews
Youghal, Co. Cork is a unique place in Ireland’s Ancient East with miles of sandy beach and a rich medieval history. Youghal Clock Gate Tower is the most visible landmark in the centre of Youghal’s Main Street and is newly opened for 2017 as a visitor attraction. Although built in 1777 as a gaol, this story spans 700 years of history. Visit is by way of a guided tour (allow 1 hour) with costumed ‘storytellers’ over 4 floors. Each floor depicts a different era in time and includes a medieval merchant’s dwelling, an 18th Century Gaol, a ‘time keeping floor’ and a former family home. Hear stories of pain, tragedy and rebellion, but also stories of love, friendship and generosity throughout this tour.
Reviewed By AnitaGod - Cork, Ireland
Our guide, Niall was a welcoming host on the tour. We really enjoyed the tour and I particularly liked the video at the end. I thought it was a lovely touch (no spoilers!). It could have easily become a bit hokey, pandering to the tourists but it was very balanced and gave a good idea of what the building and town was like through the centuries.
5. Ardmore Open Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Reviewed By Hilary B - Cambridge, United Kingdom
We really enjoyed our visit here -the Toddlers especially. It was very friendly and welcoming. You do need an extra jumper because the site is in quite a windy situation if there is a wind. It is very manageable for walking round and there are lots of activities for children. The petting of some small animals was arranged and our oldest toddler was delighted to hold and touch a small white rabbit. The whole journey back she was talking about it and wanting to go back!
6. Youghal Boardwalk
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 105 reviews
Reviewed By 22EllenH - New York City, New York
The strand is Youghal is one of the most beautiful in Ireland, and I have visited often. Last year's addition of the new boardwalk makes it more accessible, including people who may find it difficult to walk on the sands. I only wish more Beaches in the states had these in areas that are naturally gorgeous (and not amusement-oriented). Walked it nearly every day....
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By JnVSydney - Sydney
Visiting this area is definitely the highlight of Ardmore. There are Romanesque sculptures to see as well as two ogham stones (the earliest form of writing in Ireland dating back to the 4th century). Whilst there be sure to see St Declan's oratory his supposed burial place.
8. Youghal Heritage Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
Reviewed By TAMAN1951
Map from visitor center is very helpful. Even better the friendliest local folks willing to help out. The structures are so interesting. Easy access and not too stressful. Nice for simply walking and looking and thinking of the past.
9. The Round Tower
Overall Ratings
5 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By JnVSydney - Sydney
This 29 meter high round tower is definitely worth a visit. located on a hill also offers excellent views. amazing it is still standing being built in the 12th century and all.
10. Ardmore Pottery & Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By Gooner10_8 - Dublin, Ireland
This is one of two "Crafts' Shops" on the Cliff Road, on the way down towards Ardmore Village, from the wonderful "Cliff House Hotel" (for some inexplicable reason, "The Anchor - Art & Design" is not yet on "Trip Advisor", despite our best efforts to get it registered).
As their name suggests, they're big into Pottery here : some they make themselves, but there's more from other sources in the Waterford / Kilkenny / Tipperary area. While we didn't see a lot of Paintings, we noted quite a wide range of Irish-made products, such as scarves & leather goods, all of a very high quality (even the small selection of Books is local/Irish themed).
We had been here before, last year, and it was good to visit again. This time around, we met an extremely personable young lady called Sarah, who was extremely welcoming, engaging, and helpful, without being "pushy" about making a purchase (something we absolutely loathe - it heads us towards the exit door !)
Anyway, we pottered (no pun intended) for a while, and eventually bought a few Cups/Mugs - Sarah got extra "Brownie Points" from us for checking if we wanted to take our purchases with us immediately, or collect them later, since we had talked about "going for a walk". Thank-you Sarah !
If you're in Ardmore, and particularly if you're staying at "Cliff House Hotel", you MUST visit this Pottery & Gallery !
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