Youghal Clock Gate Tower

About the museum

The Clock Gate Tower is the most recognisable landmark in Youghal, a seaside town in East Cork. The county council describes its story as spanning some 600 to 700 years: it began as a point of trade and market life in the medieval town, served in the eighteenth century as a gaol, and was built in its present form in 1777. It later saw the clock-keeping of the McGrath family, who looked after the clock for generations.

After being closed to the public, the tower reopened in 2017, no longer as a prison but as a visitor attraction. It is owned by Cork County Council and run with the local organisation Living Youghal. Each of its floors tells a different part of the story, from bustling medieval trade and maritime life to the grim cells, the gaoler’s written accounts, the 1798 rebellion and poignant family stories.

The visit is a guided tour of about 50 minutes led by storytellers in costume, with audio-visual displays, exhibits and historical artefacts. Visitors can see how the clock works and hear it, and the tour ends with a 360-degree view over Youghal Bay and the town from the top.

Highlights

• Costumed storytelling tour through five floors of town history
• Former eighteenth-century gaol with cells and the gaoler’s accounts
• Working clock mechanism
• 360-degree view of Youghal Bay from the top of the tower
• Pre-tour audio guide in four languages

Permanent exhibition

• Clock Gate Tower tour through time – A guided tour through five floors of exhibits, costumes and audio-visual displays on the tower’s life as a market gate, gaol and town landmark, ending with views from the top.

Operated by

Cork County Council (managed by Living Youghal)

Admission & discounts

Entry is only with a booked guided tour.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

A child ticket (ages 6 to 12) and a family ticket are available.

Getting there & parking

The tour office is right next door to the tower, at 85 North Main Street.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

• Private parties

Private evening tours are available.

Plan your visit