History of Tramore

The history of Tramore begins some 10,000 years ago where the original settlement was located in the 'Rabbit Burrows' commonly known today as the 'Sand Dunes'. Little is known about these people, but one thing is for sure, they where hunter gathers using the natural resources of the area to survive.

Tramore had been a small fishing village in 1600's when the Doneraile family set up an estate. Then in 1794 Bartholomew Rivers, a wealthy merchant from Waterford built a hotel overlooking the bay. This hotel marked a milestone for the development of Tramore the town itself, as a thriving resort .

Tramore has been a popular holiday destination now for 200 years as it is built on steep hills rising up from the beach. Tramore has continued to expand and is now one of the leading resorts in Ireland with its vast selection of amenitites. It's panoramic landscape of the promenade and 5 km of golden, sandy beach (hence english translation "Big beach"), is surrounded by Brownstown head on the left side of Tramore Bay and the Metalman on the right which has been a significant feature of Tramore bay since 1823. The figure, which points seawards, is set upon one of three figures and is made of cast metal. It was erected by Lloyd's of London to warn seafarers away from shallow waters. On stormy nights the Metal Man can be heardchanting:- "Keep out good ship, Keep out from me, For I am the rock of misery".

Another legend of the Metalman is that if a woman hopped barefoot around it 3 times she would be married within the year.

Tourist of yesteryear came to Tramore to benefit from the healthy sea water of the bay and clean air. A gentlemen's only swimming area was build at the Guillemine, located on Greater Newtown Head and a ladies swimming area at the ladies slip on the western end of the beach. The town of Tramore was built to the North-west of the bay this gave it some shelter of the prevailing south westerly wind.

The Tramore Steam Train known as the "Iron Horse", was established in 1853. This allowed locals and tourists easier access to travel from Waterford - Tramore. The train route started at Railway Square Tramore, through Crobally, over the Metal Bridge, on through Pickardstown, Carriglong, Duagh and Kilbarry Marshes before entering the tidy little Manor Station at journey's end. Unfortunetly, with the line being dieselized in 1954, C.I.E. later closed down the train line in 1960 despite persistant local protest.

This is only a snap shot of Tramore History why not come and discover it for yourself and avail of our many guided walks lead by experienced local guides. Find out why Tramore has the name the Bay of Ship Wrecks?

The first ever annual Surf and Sea Festival was held in Tramore in September 2008.

Find out more about this family activity occasion …