Dunmore East
During the Iron Age, a promontory fort overlooking the sea was established at Shanoon, later known as Dun Mor, the Great Fort, where a fishing community thrived.
In 1640, Lord Power of Curraghmore constructed a castle near St. Andrew’s Church. By the mid-18th century, it had fallen into ruin, leaving just one tower.
In 1824, R.H. Ryland described Dunmore East as a picturesque and fashionable watering place with cottages overlooking the Hook Lighthouse. The village’s cottages, built irregularly, are mostly thatched, still existing but at higher rents today. Nearby stands the old church of Killea, built in the 12th century.
In 1814, Alexander Nimmo began building the Dunmore Harbour to serve as a packet station for Royal Mail ships between England and Ireland. The project included a grand pier and lighthouse. Despite cost overruns, the harbor played a significant role until the arrival of steamships, leading to its transfer to Waterford.
Nonetheless, Dunmore East became an important fishing port, with the second-highest fish landings in the country. It achieved marine firsts, such as the first Irish female skipper, the first female RNLI Lifeboat crew member, and the world record for the largest tuna caught on a rod.
Contact
Address
Knockreagh Farm Cottages,
Callan,
Co. Kilkenny,
Ireland,
R95 PC79
Phone
(087) 650 9050
