Local Tourism

Steamer on River Blackwater

Photograph of Steamer on Blackwater

Steamer on River Blackwater

Steamer on River Blackwater

Photograph of Steamer on Blackwater

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The social and economic benefits of innovations and expansion in rail services from the mid 1800's to the early 1900's was as significant for county Waterford as elsewhere. One noteworthy by-product of developments was the growth of local tourism. For the first time there was the possibility of travelling significant distances at affordable prices.

The concept of the 'excursion' developed early, dated to the mid 1850's. Such early excursions were organized for pioneers of independent travel like Thomas Cooke. In Ireland Rev, Bagot, the Co. Kildare clergyman, organized affordable 'day-trips' and travel to events in the 1850's and 1860'S. These fares typically cost half the single fare for a return journey. This was revolutionary in opening up the country to the rural population, allowing them to see more of their country.

Steamer -Dartmoth Castle- at Cappoquin

Sateamer "Dartmouth Castle" at Cappoquin

Steamer -Dartmoth Castle- at Cappoquin

Steamer -Dartmoth Castle- at Cappoquin

Sateamer "Dartmouth Castle" at Cappoquin

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Excursions to West Waterford featured prominently in the GS&WR travel package options of the early 1900's. A Combined rail and steamer ticket, issued at Cork for Cappoquin and Youghal was a popular 'day-trip' of the period. A ticket cost about 32p and covered the rail journey to Cappoquin via Mallow, a cruise down the Blackwater to Youghal on the paddle steamer Dartmouth Castle, and return by rail to Cork via Cobh junction.

Other reduced fairs included free travel to drovers accompanying cattle, and vagrants en-route to poorhouses were transported for a nominal fare.