Top Things to do in Ireland’s Ancient East
What to do and see in Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Ancient East: The Best Churches & Cathedrals
Discover the best top things to do in Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland including Saint Kevin’s Parish Chirch, St. Mary's Collegiate Church, St Mel's Cathedral, Augustinian Church, Gougane Barra Church, Clonbeg Church, Athy Library, Saint Mary's Cathedral, St. Anne's Church, The Holy Redeemer Church.
Restaurants in Ireland’s Ancient East
1. Saint Kevin’s Parish Chirch
2. St. Mary's Collegiate Church
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 180 reviews
Welcome to 'Voices of St. Mary's Collegiate Church'. We hope you will enjoy exploring our church and discover more about its story in our interactive exhibition when you come to visit! Since its foundation in 1220, St. Mary's Collegiate Church has been at the heart of the town of Youghal. For over 800 years, the stone walls and wooden roof have provided sanctuary and solace through times of war and famine, as well as a calm presence in times of prosperity and peace. There is so much to discover her and as you look around you will see where parts of the church have been altered over the centuries. Despite these changes, the craftsmen who constructed the building in the 13th century would recognise it today. Christian worship continues to this day and Church of Ireland services are regularly held here. The church came into the care of Cork County Council in 2005 and now hosts a wide range of community events and performances, as well as welcoming visitors from all over the world!
Reviewed By Kathleen_White17 - Dublin, Ireland
Really loved our tour of the St Mary Collegiate Church -- our tour guide, Wayne, was very friendly, welcoming and filled with interesting information about the Church and the surrounding areas. Would highly recommend this to anyone interested in Irish history, wanting to spend time in a unique and impressive historical building, and/or wanting to learn some interesting facts about an Irish town that played a big role in history!
3. St Mel's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 130 reviews
Reviewed By 547sheelaghm
You don't have to be a practising catholic to appreciate this gem. The rebuilding of this cathedral has provided a showcase for so many fabulous artists and artisans so if you are near come and enjoy the beautiful stucco celing, stain glass windows, tabernacle, pipe organ to mention but a few. It really is proof that our modern day artists/artisans are every bit as gifted as those of the past when they get an opportunity and the funding to display their talents. Don't miss it.
4. Augustinian Church
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By 806deirdrew - County Dublin, Ireland
Went to mass here on Sunday. Nothing much to that you say!,But it was the chat with the priest after mass that charmed us.. It being International Women's day, we were all invited to light a candle at a shrine of Our choice, to honour a woman who inspired us. Fabulous gesture. "Have you seen our beautiful garden ' says he. And promptly takes us out to a beautiful memory garden.. It has hand painted walls dedicated to the work of Harry Clarke. Stunning. Lovely remembrance wall set in water feature. Real gem.
5. Gougane Barra Church
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 111 reviews
Reviewed By catherineo915 - Carlow, Ireland
We visited Gougan Barra on our way back home from a mini break in Kenmare and I have to say what a beautiful peaceful place to visit i had heard so much about it and I had always wanted to see it and I have to say it was stunning so much history so when you visit stop and take a few minutes for yourself to sit and appreciate the beautiful scenery and to reflect on life its such a calm and peaceful place in such a busy crazy world
6. Clonbeg Church
7. Athy Library
8. Saint Mary's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 527 reviews
Saint Mary's Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Limerick and stands in the heart of the medieval city, looking over the majestic River Shannon. Originally the Royal Palace for the Kings of Thomond it was gifted to the church in 1168. It is a living church where worship is offered daily, as it has been for the last 850 years. Please come and visit us at Saint Mary's Cathedral. You will be most welcome !
Reviewed By madigan24 - Knoxville, United States
I love cathedrals and have to visit every one I come across. This one was a gem! Beautiful architecture and gorgeous stained glass. It felt very much like a living, breathing worship community while still preserving its history. The cemetery was also very interesting to view. If you are going to visit King John’s Castle as well while you’re in town, I would suggest visiting the cathedral first, as it will give you a good mental image and context when you come across mention of it in the castle exhibits.
9. St. Anne's Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 698 reviews
One of Cork's most prominent landmarks, you can enjoy the unique experience of ringing the original 18th Century Church bells, view the mechanism of the famous four faced liar clock, climb the tower to experience spectacular views of Cork City and beyond and visit the beautiful interior of St, Anne's church, one of Cork's oldest buildings.
Reviewed By JohnL365 - Dungarvan, Ireland
A unique experience. Ring the famous bells, even play a tune on them…… that is great fun for all ages. The steep climb up the narrow stairs was an adventure and well worth the effort. The views of the city from the top are spectacular. In contrast to the clang of the bells is the silence in the church. A little cameo stained glass window provides a meditative environment. Last, but the not least, were the very helpful staff who made our little group so welcome. To become a true Cork person, you must visit Shandon and ring the bells.
