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Imagine returning to the golden age of seaside holidays in Ardmore, County Waterford. As you stroll along the picturesque coastline, you might catch glimpses of elegant bathing lodges that once dotted the shoreline, catering to well-heeled visitors seeking respite by the sea.
While specific details about Ardmore’s bathing lodges are scarce in the provided search results, we can paint a vivid picture based on the village’s rich history as a seaside resort:
A Fashionable Retreat
In the late 19th century, Ardmore transformed from a quiet fishing village into a bustling holiday destination. The arrival of the railway to nearby Youghal in the 1860s made it easier for visitors to reach this coastal gem. Bathing lodges soon sprang up to accommodate the influx of tourists seeking the health benefits of sea air and bathing.
Architectural Charm
These lodges were likely modest yet charming structures designed to provide comfort and privacy for their occupants. Picture whitewashed walls, green shutters, and verandas offering sweeping views of Ardmore Bay. Some may have incorporated materials salvaged from grander houses, as was the case with other buildings in the village.
A Social Hub
The bathing lodges became a focal point for Ardmore’s burgeoning social scene. Visitors would gather for afternoon teas, croquet matches on manicured lawns, and evening dances. The “Croquet Ground” between Green Shutters and Quarry House may have been a popular spot for lodge guests to mingle and show off their skills.
Fading Grandeur
As tourism patterns changed in the 20th century, many of these lodges fell into disrepair or were repurposed. Today, you might spot hints of their former glory in some of Ardmore’s older buildings, a testament to the village’s enduring appeal as a seaside haven.
While the bathing lodges may be gone, Ardmore’s charm remains. As you explore this historic village, let your imagination transport you to a time when these elegant structures stood sentinel over the bay, welcoming visitors to Ireland’s oldest Christian settlement and one of its most beloved coastal retreats.
Citations:
[1] https://www.waterfordmuseum.ie/exhibit/web/Display/article/368/7/Ardmore_Memory_and_Story__The_Village_Big_Houses.html
[2] https://cliffhousehotel.ie/your-irish-adventure/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardmore,_County_Waterford
[4] https://www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com/blog/travel-guide-ireland/historic-surroundings-ardmore
[5] https://www.ardmorewaterford.com/a-little-introduction-to-ardmore-and-st-declan/
[6] https://scratchablemapireland.com/blogs/news/what-the-locals-say-ardmore-round-tower
[7] https://www.image.ie/living/24-hours-in-ardmore-the-irish-hotspot-beloved-by-olivia-wilde-735118
[8] https://www.tripadvisor.ie/ShowUserReviews-g315893-d4458377-r731330241-Ardmore_Bed_Breakfast-Ardmore_County_Waterford.html
[9] https://visitwaterford.com/cliff-walk-ardmore/
No Nudity Here: The Village That Lost Their Bathing-Lodges
In reality, Ardmore’s look and feel have not changed that much over the years. But the bathing lodges seem to have disappeared!!!
The dramatic cliff walk, patchwork of houses, winding trails, charming village setting, and welcoming locals all lend themselves to creating a wonderful stay in Ardmore.
We look back to an early description of a trip from Dublin To Ardmore in 1884.
This extract is from A hand book for travellers in Ireland : descriptive of its scenery, towns, seats, antiquities, etc. ; with various statistical tables also an outline of its mineral structure, a brief view of its botany, and information for anglers / by James Fraser (1884)
I have came across a old news paper from Waterford news . Incorprated with this journal may 9 1849. Brought out on march 28 1884. I was wondering if you would have any information on this paper. As there are great story’s in it . I be grateful lisa