Dungarvan Ireland
        Between the Mountains and the Irish Sea

 
   

Sights of Dungarvan Ireland

The Square
Dungarvan was redesigned by the Duke of Devonshire in the early 1800's. The richest man in England at the time, the Duke bought up and tore down the warren of small medieval houses in the center of Dungarvan. The resulting Square became the open center of town.
 

The Shopping Streets
Radiating from the Square are the four main shopping streets of Dungarvan. They retain, amidst the bustle of shoppers and modern stores, a quaint and pleasing feel. Main Street (Parnell Street) on the top looks toward the medieval Market House and castle (soon to be reopened!) Mary Street below looks uphill toward the large parish church called, appropriately, Saint Mary's. The new shopping mall is integrated with the old town by numerous walkways.
 

Quays & Harbour
The harbour at the mouth of the Colligan River has become a popular haven for local and visiting boaters. Several excellent pubs and restaurants feature outdoor tables with views over the harbour. The County Library, an art gallery and the old port fixtures along the Quay walk complete the picture perfect scene.
 

Dungarvan Castle
The castle was built by the Normans in the 12th century and strengthened by King John of Robin Hood fame in the early 1200's. The Castle controlled the important ferry crossing over the Colligan River and strengthened Normal control of the turbulent countryside. Totally refurbished by the Office of Public Works, the Castle is now open to visitors in the Spring through Autumn and features a fascinating glimpse of barracks life.
 
Devonshire Bridge & Causeway Park
The 1830's stone bridge connecting Abbeyside to the town has been cleaned. At night, lights highlight the rich red stonework. At this time, a causeway was built to connect Abbeyside to Dungarvan Town. Newly redesigned Causeway Park features a great Children's Playground, lovely walks, the Tennis Club courts and a fountain.
 

Lookout Park
Donated to the town in the last decade of the 19th century, Lookout Park does just that. This is a great vantage point to enjoy magnificent Dungarvan Bay. A walk along the important and protected wildlife habitat of the Back Bay starts here.
 
Causeway Park
On the edge of Causeway Park, near the red sandstone Devonshire Bridge, stands one of the largest and healthiest remaining Elm trees in Ireland. The entire park has been completely remodeled and replanted and is a jewel of a place to relax. Or, bring the kids to the playground which is one of the best in Ireland.
 
Dungarvan Museum
This pleasant museum displays numerous artifacts from the town's long history. Explanations and photos are excellent. The Museum Society's Award Winning web site is a fabulous resource with thousands of photos and articles on anyone and everything of importance to the area for the last 10,000 years.
 
Old Market House Arts Centre
Originally the medieval market for the Castle and local inhabitants, this fine building now serves as the Town's art gallery. Two artists are normally showcased in the main two gallery rooms while numerous local artists display their talents upstairs. Displays change frequently.
 
Clonea Strand Beach
Clonea Strand is the finest beach for 30 miles in either direction along the south Irish coast. The two mile long strand is swept clean daily at high tide. Within minutes of its daily cleansing, the wide and beckoning sands are again available for strolling and bathing. This is a European designated Blue Flag Beach, meeting the highest standards for public swimming. Life guards patrol the beach during summer months. Clonea Strand is a 5 minute drive from town on a newly widened road.
 
 

More Area Sights
Town History

 
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