It’s a move that could be plucked right out of a film script.

Plot: Brave nine-to-fiver quits their job in the big city and buys a tiny cinema in a small Irish village.

And the precise opportunity is now presenting itself at a hefty discount in the seaside East Cork town of Youghal: The price of the town’s Art Deco cinema The Regal, which has been on the market for two years, has dropped significantly.

Offered for sale by Hegarty Properties, the owners are now expecting bids from €295,000 – a drop of €300k since it was first listed in 2024.

The Regal is no dusty relic. Extending to approximately 4,725 sq ft (439 sq m), it is a carefully refurbished commercial landmark in the heart of one of Cork’s most affordable coastal towns — a place where Blue Flag beaches meet medieval streetscapes.

A leading role since 1936

Purpose-built and opened in 1936, The Regal quickly became the social heartbeat of Youghal. Generations had their first dates in its plush seats; children craned their necks at Saturday matinees; newsreels flickered across its screen as the world changed outside.

Its place in cinematic history was sealed in the 1950s when Youghal transformed into New Bedford for John Huston’s film of Moby Dick. The town hosted the Irish premiere, with The Regal taking centre stage during filming — a moment that cemented its national recognition and added a touch of Hollywood glamour to this Atlantic outpost.

After decades of operation, the cinema underwent a major restoration between 2017 and 2018.

The works were extensive but sensitive: original Art Deco character was preserved, while services, infrastructure and hospitality facilities were upgraded. The result is a building that feels authentic rather than themed — atmospheric, yet commercially viable.

Today, The Regal stands as one of Ireland’s most impressive restored historic cinemas. Its flexible internal layout lends itself not only to continued use as a cinema, but also to live events, private screenings, festivals, or boutique hospitality.

Step outside and you are within walking distance of Youghal’s Blue Flag beaches — Front Strand, Claycastle and Redbarn. If a relocation is on the cards, it’s a town with plenty to offer.

Just steps away is the starting point of the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, a transformative cycling and walking route drawing domestic and international visitors along the East Cork coastline.

For the right owner, The Regal offers chance to be the main character in your own cinematic dream.

Check out the full listing here.