Here are the top things to do as you explore the buzzing city, beautiful surrounds and friendly atmosphere of Cork!
The lively city and its gorgeous surroundings of Cork on the island of Ireland are full of star attractions. Where else would you find a thriving 18th century food market, an iconic whiskey legacy and a sure-fire way to obtain the famous Irish “gift of the gab”? With its vibrant city, beautiful coastline, delicious food and colourful towns, a trip to Cork on the island of Ireland is sure to be an unforgettable one!
FAST FACTS:
- Built nearly 600 years ago, Blarney Castle is the home of the famous Blarney Stone, which is believed to bestow the “gift of gab” to those who kiss it!
- St Anne’s Church still retains its original 18th century bells. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and ring the Shandon Bells while taking in the stunning panoramic view of the city.
- Located off coast of Cork, Spike Island (Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction 2017) is the only place in Ireland where you’ll find a monastery, fortress and prison all in the one spot!
- Cobh harbour is said to be the largest natural harbour in the world. This marina was the final stop for the RMS Titanic before departing on its ill-fated voyage to the United States.
- For 200 years the Jameson distillery was located in Dublin, but in 1975 it relocated to Midleton, County Cork. Guided tours bring to life the rich legacy of this famous liquid gold – and a taste of the tipple always goes down a treat!
- The English Market in Cork city is the place to pick up traditional specialities like drisheen (black pudding) and pigs’ trotters, although the 55 or so stalls also stock delicious bread, fish, cheese, fruit and veg! - The newly renovated home of Cork GAA (Gaelic Games), Páirc Uí Chaoimh hosts not only matches, but also a variety of concerts – notable gigs in the past include Michael Jackson, Prince, Oasis and most recently Ed Sheeran!
- The mission of the Cork Jazz Festival was to produce the best jazz festival in Ireland and one of the best in Europe… and they have certainly achieved this! With this year being the festival’s 40th birthday, you can expect this year’s festival to be bigger and better than ever.
- Fota House, a beautifully designed 19th century home, offers visitors an intimate look into how life was lived in the past. Visitors get a great understanding of how members of the gentry and the servants alike lived, by exploring the brilliantly preserved estate.
- Cork City Gaol may look like a castle, but it was in fact a 19th century prison! Now open to the public as a tourist attraction, visitors get a fascinating insight into day-to-day prison life back in the 1800s.
- St Anne’s Church still retains its original 18th century bells. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and ring the Shandon Bells while taking in the stunning panoramic view of the city.
- Located off coast of Cork, Spike Island (Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction 2017) is the only place in Ireland where you’ll find a monastery, fortress and prison all in the one spot!
- Cobh harbour is said to be the largest natural harbour in the world. This marina was the final stop for the RMS Titanic before departing on its ill-fated voyage to the United States.
- For 200 years the Jameson distillery was located in Dublin, but in 1975 it relocated to Midleton, County Cork. Guided tours bring to life the rich legacy of this famous liquid gold – and a taste of the tipple always goes down a treat!
- The English Market in Cork city is the place to pick up traditional specialities like drisheen (black pudding) and pigs’ trotters, although the 55 or so stalls also stock delicious bread, fish, cheese, fruit and veg! - The newly renovated home of Cork GAA (Gaelic Games), Páirc Uí Chaoimh hosts not only matches, but also a variety of concerts – notable gigs in the past include Michael Jackson, Prince, Oasis and most recently Ed Sheeran!
- The mission of the Cork Jazz Festival was to produce the best jazz festival in Ireland and one of the best in Europe… and they have certainly achieved this! With this year being the festival’s 40th birthday, you can expect this year’s festival to be bigger and better than ever.
- Fota House, a beautifully designed 19th century home, offers visitors an intimate look into how life was lived in the past. Visitors get a great understanding of how members of the gentry and the servants alike lived, by exploring the brilliantly preserved estate.
- Cork City Gaol may look like a castle, but it was in fact a 19th century prison! Now open to the public as a tourist attraction, visitors get a fascinating insight into day-to-day prison life back in the 1800s.
- Music: Driving Force by Krisztian Vass (Shutterstock)
- Discover Ireland, photo by Rory Hennessey , EdenGate travel