CASTLETOWNSHEND

Due south of Union Hall is Castletownshend (Baile an Chaisleain) which like many of the West Cork Coastal villages is an adventure in its own right. One of Ireland's most southerly towns, Castletownsend is a pleasant surprise. Grand house names are visible on entering the town such as Sundial House and Princes House. The road gets much steeper as you head for the sea, with away straight into the water.

Just before that is Mary Anne's Bar which is a charming little pub with the mandatory piano, fire and warm atmosphere, complemented with excellent food, especially in their cosy restaurant upstairs.

Castle Townshend, by the waters edge is still inhabited by the descendants of the family who give the village its name and St. Barrahanes Church has some interesting stained glass windows.