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Dunmore East
About Dunmore East
The picturesque seaside village of Dunmore East is situated 15km east of Waterford city. As well as being a popular holiday destination, Dunmore is the ideal location for those who long for coastal living but seek ease of access to the city and its amenities.
The village consists of an eclectic mix of housing stock, where charming traditional thatched cottages, sit alongside contemporary homes, all in a sympathetic manner. Many homes boast panoramic views across the sea to the Hook peninsula and famous Hook Lighthouse, the oldest operational lighthouse in Ireland.
At the centre of the village lies a picturesque park where winding paths lead to secluded coves and stunning sea views. Close by is the Dunmore East Harbour, a busy working harbour serving also as a haven for visiting yachts in the summer months. It is also home Dunmore East Adventure, a popular aquapark popular with families and thrill seekers alike.
The area is served by a daily bus service which links the village with Waterford city and its environs.
History & Culture
The name Dunmore derives from the Irish ‘Dun Mor’ or great fort, which was once situated on the cliffs overlooking the sea during the Iron Age.
In about 1640, Lord Power of Curraghmore, built a castle on the cliff overlooking the strand about two hundred metres from St. Andrew’s Church. All that remains now is one tower.
Alexander Nimmo, the Scottish engineer commenced work on the new Harbour at Dunmore in 1814, to accommodate the packet station for ships, which carried the Royal Mail between England and Ireland. The lighthouse at the end of the pier still bears his name.
Dunmore East Harbour is one of the five designated National Fishery Harbours and has the second highest figure for fish landings after Killybegs. Dunmore has some notable marine firsts to its credit, with the first Irish woman to qualify for a skipper’s ticket in fishing; the first official woman crew member in an RNLI Lifeboat, and the world record holder for the largest tuna caught on a rod.
Education
Dunmore East has two primary schools.
Light of Christ National School is an all-girls Catholic school. Killea Boys National School serves the boys of the locality and is also a Catholic school.
There are numerous secondary schools in Waterford city and Tramore. All are serviced by bus routes.
Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), recently voted the top IT in Ireland, is 20-minute drive from Dunmore East.
Dine and Drink
The village has a good selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants that cater to all tastes, including two hotels.
In prime position, overlooking the popular Lawlor’s beach, is the Strand Inn. Perpetually popular with tourists and locals alike, The Strand is well known for its seafood restaurant with stunning sea views. A spacious outdoor patio overlooks the beach and is often the location for outdoor live music in the summer months.
With panoramic sea views, the historic Haven Hotel, is a popular wedding venue. Offering excellent bar food and an extensive bar, the Haven boasts the largest collection of malt whiskeys in Ireland.
The Spinnaker, situated in the lower village is traditional Irish pub-restaurant setting, where quality dishes are served in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The adjoining sports bar is a popular location on match day, as is the covered beer garden at the rear of the property with regular live music and other events.
Nestled close to the end of the cliff walk, the Lemon Tree Seafood Restaurant offers beautiful seafood dishes, alongside its famous breakfasts and brunch options.
The Bay Café, overlooking the harbour is a popular meeting spot for coffee and a chat. It is also a stone’s throw from Power’s Bar, for those who may like to sample something stronger.
The village also has a Chinese restaurant and takeaway and two Fish and Chip takeaways.
