Ballyduff

Ballyduff Upper needs no introduction to readers from West Waterford, East Cork or South Tipperary. Ballyduff or "The Village" as it's affectionately known. Bun a Gleanna would be another and possibly more ancient name - Bottom of the Glen.

COUNTY FLEADH CHEOIL

Ballyduff/Ballysaggart/Ballinvella Comhaltas branch are proud to annouce that they will be hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na Port Lairge 2008. May 9th to 11th.

May 9th to 11th 2008, Ballyduff is the place to be, hundreds of talented musicians and dancers will gather in the Village to take part in what is now the premium competition in the traditional arts. This is an opportunity to hear the very best talent in the county displaying their mastery of Music Song and Dance. It is an event not to be missed. It is competitons such as this that promotes and breathes new life into our National Heritage, it is easy to overlook the dedication of students [and parents] and teachers that go into each and every discipline. To all the competitors, we wish them well in their chosen field.

For more information about upcoming events, contact Sean Forrestal on 086-0874409.

For membership of Ballyduff Comhaltas, contact Tom Hyland on 086-8208242

Ballyduff Comhaltas are delighted to to accept an invitation from Cushendall County Antrim to exchange visits. The Glens of Antrim Comhaltas branch in Cushendall will visit Ballyduff on the 4th to the 6th of July 2008, details of the Ballyduff return visit to Antrim has yet to be announced. Here is an opportunity to witness the fire and flare of musicians from Antrim that is not to be missed. The mix of styles and temper promises to produce unforgettable sessions with musicians from both Antrim and Waterford.

Saint Michael's Church Ballyduff

Built around 1830 and renovated extensively in 1870. This is a pleasant building both inside and out.

The parish has installed an FM Radio transmitter BLR 104.2 FM to help reach those unable to attend Sunday Mass.

Ballyduff Police Barracks

It is hard to imagine why anyone would feel the need to build such a robust Police Barracks. It has musket loops facing out onto the road and it has musket loops protecting the front door from the structure at top right of the building. The ground floor has just one window, It is a little bit of a curiosity, and has been the basis for much speculation that it was intended for India, but by some means got built in Ballyduff instead. How true that story is, is anyones guess. In appearance, it is grey, gaunt, austere and oppressive.

Saint Michael's Hall Ballyduff

This building is the Engine that drives Ballyduff.

Formally opened in 1945, it has gone through some changes in layout and appearance since then. The building on it's own is only one half of the story, the other half is the community working together to make it a first class centre of entertainment

Ballyduff Bridge

The twin span metal bridge is to Ballyduff what the Red bridge is to Cappoquin.

Designed for an era of horse and cart traffic, it has served the people on both sides of the Blackwater for many years. Click on the picture for an enlarged view. The building just right of centre background is the Police barracks, the buildings left of centre are where the Creamery stood.

Photo: Ballyduff Community website

Ballyduff is the most Westerly village in Lismore / Mocollop. It sit's on the floodplain of the River Blackwater six miles west of Lismore and maybe three miles east of Mocollop. The village is without doubt one of those place that must to be seen on a trip to this part of the country. Come to Ballyduff for the scenery or the Fishing, but savour the local hospitality, that is Ballyduff's secret.