Cork

Cork is the largest county in Ireland and its second largert city after Dublin. With approximately 640km of sometimes rugged coastline, Cork has many beaches (several with Blue Flag status) and impressive cliffs. Cork city boasts one of the principal ports of Ireland. It is possible to go sea angling, scuba diving or rent canoes here, however walking remains the best way to appreciate the astounding landscape of the Cork landscape. The county has many attractions which range from artistic, to cultural and historic on offer to visitors.

Major Visitor Attractions

Built in 1446, Blarney Castle is one of oldest and most historical fortresses in Ireland. Its walls are more than 5 metres thick in places, which made it invincible. Legend has it that having kissed the Blarney Stone you will receive the “gift of eloquence”!

At Clonakilty, enjoy a visit to the West Cork Model Railway Village - the first of its kind in Ireland. Here you can relive the sounds and images of life in West Cork in the mid-20th century. The town itself features some beautifully hand-painted signage.

Fota island to the east of the city shelters a natural reserve of fauna and flora with rare species of trees and shrubs. The Fota Wildlife Park offers a true treat for animal lovers of all ages.

The Royal Gunpowder Mills at Ballincollig, to the west of the city, were established in 1794 where a few years later the army barracks were also built. Many buildings remain intact to this day.

Discover the history and the magical taste of Irish whiskey at the Jameson Heritage Centre in Midleton. See how Irish whiskey was made by taking the guided tour.

Discover Millstreet Park, with its water falls, lakes, archaeology and gardens, not forgetting the 700 red common stag which reside here.

Skibbereen Heritage Centre offers an exhibition of the Great Irish Famine while the interpretative centre at nearby Lough Hyne explains the flora and fauna to be found in this, the first natural reserve of Ireland.

Crosshaven is an historic fishing village and is the seat also of the Royal Yachting Club of Cork - the oldest yacht club in the world. Crosshaven is also close to fine beaches such as Fountainstown and Myrtleville.

Kinsale is regarded as Ireland’s gourmet centre of excellence, and is a wonderful place to take a stroll and enjoy the scenery around its delightful harbour. It is designated as one of Ireland’s most important Heritage Towns and is twinned with Antibes in southern France. Nearby there is Charles Fort, which is a very well preserved fort. It makes for a lovely day of exploration around its ancient walls.

Innishannon is a picturesque village of character and charm, immortalised by Irish author Alice Taylor in her writings.

Shandon Church (St Ann's Church) was built in 1722. When visiting, it is suggested that the climb to its steeple will reward with a panoramic view of Cork city.

The Butter Exchange is a small centre for artisans where you will find porcelain, jewellery, potteries, sweaters and woollen items, and so is a lovely place to explore for gifts.

St Patrick's Street is the commercial area of Cork, the heart of the city where one finds all the major department stores and shops.

The current structure of St Finbarr's Cathedral on Dean Street was built in the French Gothic style in 1865, reputedly located on the exact spot of Finnbarr’s vault, the man recognised as the founder of the city of Cork, which dates from the 6th century.

Cork Museum recalls the tumultuous history of the city. It has been set up in what was an old brewery since 1909.

Cork City Goal is an old prison which is now presented as a museum and recalls the life in prison in days long gone, as if you were actually there!

To the east of the city is Cobh, formerly known as Queenstown. It is from here that “RMS Titanic” made her last departure in 1912, before tragically sinking in mid-Atlantic, bound for New York on her maiden voyage. The history of Cobh and Titanic are recalled at the Cobh Heritage Centre, where in 2012, major commemmoration ceremonies are planned to mark the centenary of that tragic event.

With so much history and things to see and do in Cork, why not experience it for yourself by paying a visit?