Castletownbere (Baile Chaisleáin Bhéarra) is the principal town on the Beara Peninsula in West Cork, home to one of Ireland’s largest fishing ports. If you need a notary public, Hugh Phelan’s office in Douglas is approximately 110 km away — about 105 minutes by car via the R572 and N22.
About Castletownbere
Castletownbere is a bustling fishing town on the north shore of Bantry Bay, with a population of approximately 900. It is home to Ireland’s second-largest whitefish port, and the fishing industry is central to the local economy. The town overlooks Bere Island, which is accessible by ferry and has a rich military history as a former British naval base.
The Beara Peninsula is one of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes, stretching between Bantry Bay and the Kenmare River. The area attracts walkers on the Beara Way long-distance trail and is home to a vibrant arts community. Dursey Island, connected to the mainland by Ireland’s only cable car, lies at the peninsula’s western tip.
Due to its fishing industry and international connections, Castletownbere residents frequently need documents notarised for maritime, immigration, and international trade purposes. The town’s Spanish and Eastern European fishing community also generates demand for cross-border documentation.
Getting to Our Office from Castletownbere
Our office at Phelan Solicitors, East Douglas Street, Douglas, Co. Cork is approximately 110 km from Castletownbere — a journey of about 105 minutes by car.
Directions: From Castletownbere, take the R572 east along the north shore of Bantry Bay to Adrigole, then continue to Glengarriff. At Glengarriff, take the N71 south to Bantry, then the N71 east through Ballylickey. At the Ballylickey junction, you can take the R584 through the Pass of Keimaneigh and Macroom to join the N22, or continue on the N71 via Bandon. Both routes lead to the N40 South Ring Road and Douglas. Our office is on East Douglas Street.
Common Reasons Castletownbere Residents Need a Notary
- Maritime and fishing vessel documentation
- International trade and shipping documents
- Visa and immigration applications
- Certified copies of passports and qualifications
- Powers of attorney for overseas matters
- Property transactions abroad
- Crew documentation for international fishing vessels
- Inheritance and pension documents for foreign jurisdictions
Nearby Landmarks & Local Knowledge
Castletownbere’s harbour is dominated by the colourful fishing trawlers that form the backbone of the local economy. Bere Island, a short ferry ride away, was a strategic naval base and retains Martello towers and fortifications. The Beara Way walking trail passes through the town, and Hungry Hill (685m), the highest point on the peninsula, is a popular climb.
Dunboy Castle, just outside the town, is a significant historical site associated with the O’Sullivan Beare clan and the Nine Years’ War. The ruins of the original castle and the later Puxley Mansion (which inspired Daphne du Maurier’s Hungry Hill) are nearby.
Notary Public Services Available
Hugh Phelan provides a comprehensive range of notary public services. As a Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland and commissioned for life, Hugh offers the highest standard of notarial service. He holds a BCL from University College Cork and a Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice. He is a dual-qualified solicitor in both Ireland and England & Wales.
Document Notarisation
Whether you need a contract, agreement, or declaration notarised for use in another country, Hugh authenticates documents with his official notarial seal and signature, giving them international recognition and legal validity.
Certified True Copies
Notarially certified copies of passports, birth certificates, degree certificates, and professional qualifications are frequently needed for visa applications, overseas university admissions, foreign employment, and immigration purposes.
Powers of Attorney
If you need someone to act on your behalf in another country — for example, to buy or sell property abroad — a notarised power of attorney is typically required. Hugh regularly prepares and notarises powers of attorney for clients with international property or business interests.
Apostille Preparation
For documents destined for countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, Hugh notarises documents in the correct format for submission to the Department of Foreign Affairs. We can arrange the apostille submission on your behalf.
Affidavits & Statutory Declarations
Hugh administers oaths and affirmations for affidavits and statutory declarations intended for use abroad, particularly where foreign authorities require notarial authentication.
Why Choose Hugh Phelan as Your Notary?
- Lifetime Appointment: Appointed as a Notary Public by the Chief Justice of Ireland
- Dual Qualified: Solicitor in both Ireland and England & Wales
- Specialist Qualifications: BCL from UCC, Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice
- Over 20 Years’ Experience: Extensive legal and notarial experience
- Same-Day Service: Urgent appointments frequently available
- Convenient Location: Douglas is accessible from across Cork
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- The original document(s) — unsigned if they require your signature
- Valid photo ID: current passport or driving licence
- Proof of address: utility bill or bank statement (within 3 months)
- Any instructions from the requesting party
If unsure, call (021) 489 7134 before your visit.
How to Book an Appointment
- Phone: (021) 489 7134 (office hours)
- Urgent/Mobile: 086 390 7815
- Email: info@phelansolicitors.com
When booking, let us know the type of document, the country where it will be used, and any deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the notary office from Castletownbere?
Our office in Douglas is approximately 110 km from Castletownbere, about 105 minutes by car via the R572 and N22.
Is there a notary public in Castletownbere?
There is no dedicated notary public office in Castletownbere or on the Beara Peninsula. Hugh Phelan's Douglas office provides full notary services for Beara residents.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, especially when travelling from the Beara Peninsula. Call (021) 489 7134 to book a time so we can prepare your documents in advance.
Can you notarise maritime documents?
Yes. Hugh Phelan regularly handles maritime and shipping documentation, crew papers, and international trade documents for the fishing industry.
Hugh Phelan
Solicitor & Notary Public
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor and Notary Public practising from Douglas, Co. Cork. Appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland, he holds a BCL from UCC and a Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice. He is dual-qualified in Ireland and England & Wales, with over 20 years of professional experience.