Ardfield & Rathbarry

Ardfield Parish extends south of Clonakilty to Owenahincha and north to The Pike, with the sea on one side and Rosscarberry Parish on the other

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Ardfield & Rathbarry - Nice to meet you!

Ardfield parish lies south of Clonakilty and takes in the whole peninsula. TY student and Ardfield parishioner Cian O’Donovan presents his parish here for summer visitors and would-be visitors from the other five parishes of our family of parishes.

This is the third in a series of brief articles by TY students in Clonakilty Community College presenting our parishes in turn. (Ed.)

Living in Ardfield-Rathbarry is honestly something special. It is not just a small West Cork community — it is full of pride, history, and people who always look out for each other. There is a real sense of togetherness here, and that is what makes it feel like home.

The GAA club is a huge part of life. Whether you are playing, supporting, or just going for the atmosphere, it brings everyone together. There has been plenty of great wins over the years, and the underage teams are flying it too.

We have got some of the best beaches around — Red Strand is perfect for swimming and chilling, and Long Strand is great for surfing or just a peaceful walk. After the beach, The Fish Basket is the go-to spot — their food is unreal, and it is right by the sea. There is also a lovely campsite nearby where loads of families and tourists stay in summer, which gives the place a great buzz.

Watching over it all is the Galley Head Lighthouse, one of the coolest sights around. Every year, there is the Galley Head Swim, which is a serious challenge but a brilliant event for raising money and bringing people together.

Both Ardfield and Rathbarry churches are important too — they have been at the centre of community life for generations. And you cannot forget Rathbarry Hall — it is where loads of things happen, from classes to parties to community meetings. It is the hub for loads of local events and get-togethers.

One of the best parts about living here is how people support each other. Whether it is a fundraiser, a clean-up, or someone just needing a hand, people always show up. Events like the Sandscove Fishing Competition are great craic and bring everyone together — young and old.

There are loads of walkways too — through woods, along the coast, or past fields — all with amazing views. Whether you are walking your dog, running, or just clearing your head, there is always somewhere nice to go.

We have had plenty to be proud of — Rathbarry has done brilliantly in the Tidy Towns, and the GAA club keeps the sporting spirit alive. It just shows how much people care about where we live.

Ardfield Rathbarry Tennis Club, founded in 1996 by local youths, has become a key part of the community in West Cork. With two floodlit, all-weather courts beside St James’ GAA grounds, the club offers year-round access to players of all ages and abilities. It plays a strong role in community life, supporting junior development, adult league teams, and hosting regular social evenings and tournaments. The addition of a modern clubhouse in 2016 further strengthened its role as a welcoming, inclusive space for sport and connection.

Ardfield-Rathbarry might be small, but it is full of heart, good people, and unreal places. It’s one of those spots where once you have been, you never really forget it.

Come and visit us! During the summer, Sunday Mass is celebrated in St James’ church, Ardfield (P85 DD40), at 10.00am.