History Midleton - Youghal
The Midleton to Youghal Greenway is new off-road walking and cycling route in East Cork, Ireland, repurposing the old Midleton–Youghal railway line into a scenic, sustainable amenity for locals and visitors alike.
Covering a total of 23 km, the Greenway connects the historic market town of Midleton with the coastal town of Youghal, passing through the villages of Mogeely and Killeagh along a mostly flat, smooth, tarmac surface that is accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Development of the route has been phased, with the first 8 km section from Midleton Train Station to Mogeely officially opened in 2024, marking a major milestone in establishing the full greenway network. The final phase — extending the trail from Mogeely through Killeagh to Youghal — was completed later in December 2024 and opened to the public, enabling walkers and cyclists to travel the full route.
It features retained trees and hedgerows with native planting to enhance biodiversity, seating areas, and facilities such as parking, bicycle repair stations, drinking water points and picnic spots at key trailheads. The route is a significant addition to the region’s tourism infrastructure, expected to attract large numbers of visitors annually and to boost the local economy. It offers direct access to natural landscapes — including countryside views, marshes, and coastal scenery near Youghal — and ties in with other attractions such as beaches, heritage sites and local eateries along the way.
By linking towns that were formerly connected by rail, the Midleton to Youghal Greenway not only encourages healthier lifestyles and sustainable travel but also celebrates the cultural and environmental heritage of East Cork.​​​​
Midleton
​
Midleton's origins can be traced back to early Christian times, when a monastery was founded in the area by St John the Baptist in the 12th century. This religious settlement became an important centre of learning and worship, and the influence of the monastery helped shape the development of the surrounding community.
During the medieval period, Midleton grew as a market town due to its fertile agricultural hinterland and its strategic position near Cork Harbour. The town was later affected by the turbulent events of Irish history, including the Cromwellian conquest and the Williamite wars, which brought changes in land ownership and population.
Under English rule, Midleton developed further as an estate town, with trade and farming playing central roles in local life. One of the most significant chapters in Midleton’s history began in the 19th century with the establishment of the Midleton Distillery. Whiskey production became central to the town’s identity and economy, earning Midleton international recognition. Although the original distillery closed in the 20th century, the nearby New Midleton Distillery continues the tradition today and is a major employer and tourist attraction.
In the modern era, Midleton has expanded rapidly and sport plays a major role in the life of the community. Hurling has long been at the heart of community life in Midleton and is one of the town’s strongest sporting and cultural traditions. The sport is deeply rooted in local identity and is passed from one generation to the next through families, schools and clubs.
Midleton GAA club has played a central role in this history, achieving major success at both county and provincial level. The club’s most famous triumph came in 1987, when Midleton won the All-Ireland Senior Club Hurling Championship, placing the town firmly on the national sporting map. Midleton players have also made important contributions to Cork hurling teams over the years.
Young players are introduced to the game at an early age, learning not just skills but values such as discipline, respect and teamwork. Matches and training sessions bring people together, reinforcing strong social bonds within the town.
In Midleton, hurling is more than a sport; it is a living tradition that connects past and present.
Youghal
​
Youghal has one of the richest and most varied histories in Ireland. Its origins date back to early medieval times, when it developed as a monastic settlement. By the 12th century, following the Norman invasion, Youghal emerged as an important walled town and port, benefiting from its strategic position at the mouth of the River Blackwater.
During the late medieval and early modern periods, Youghal became one of Ireland’s principal trading ports. It exported wool, hides and agricultural produce and had strong trading links with England and continental Europe. The town’s prosperity is reflected in its impressive medieval walls, gates and buildings, including St Mary’s Collegiate Church, one of the oldest churches still in use in Ireland. Youghal also has literary connections, most notably with Sir Walter Raleigh, who served as mayor in the late 16th century and is traditionally associated with the introduction of the potato to Ireland.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Youghal experienced both growth and decline, shaped by wars, political change and shifts in trade routes. By the 19th century, the town reinvented itself as a seaside resort, attracting visitors with its beaches and mild climate. This new role helped sustain Youghal as a popular destination well into the 20th century.
Youghal Carpets refers to a once-famous carpet and textile industry centred in the town. For much of the mid-20th century, carpet manufacturing was a major part of the local economy and community life, and the name “Youghal Carpets” became synonymous with high-quality woven carpets produced in the region.
The original Youghal Carpets factory was established in the town in 1954, producing woollen carpets and quickly gaining a reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Its products were exported widely and featured in prestigious installations abroad, including casinos in Las Vegas and even royal commissions — a testament to the global appeal and durability of its carpets.
At its peak, the Youghal Carpets enterprise — including associated facilities such as wool-spinning and dyeing works nearby — employed hundreds of workers, becoming one of the largest employers in East Cork and a pillar of the town’s economy.
However, by the 1980s and early 2000s, changes in global manufacturing and competition from low-cost producers abroad led to the gradual decline of the carpet industry in Youghal. The original factory closed in 1984. The closure had a significant socio-economic impact on the town, contributing to job losses and wider industrial decline in the region.
Today, Youghal’s is a vibrant town and its history is visible in its streets, buildings and harbour. Visit the Youghal Clock Gate Tower and take a stroll along the boardwalk breathing in the sea air after your cycle. ​