Cork

Welcome to Cork!

Tucked into the east of Ireland’s largest county, Cork is Ireland’s second largest city and a maritime haven, attracting visitors from around the world for too many years to count and giving the whole place an international flavour – with a distinctly Irish accent of course! County Cork also has 1000km of coastline, spanning both the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East. So whichever way your car-cation takes you, there’s lots to see and do…

Billed as the food capital of Ireland, Cork is famed for its markets, of which the English Market is most well-known - Rick Stein rates it as the best of its kind in the UK and Ireland. This quirky old market sits at the heart of the city, an oasis of fresh produce and an excellent spot for breakfast or lunch. Of course, there are other markets: Coal Quay Market, Douglas Farmers’ Market and another at Mahon Point all offering super-fresh fruit and veg and gourmet goodies. Foodies will be in their element.

If you’re looking for something very different, Mother Jones Flea Market is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, furniture, books, household items and crafts. There’s often music and entertainment too.

Cork is a city best explored on foot – or you can rent a city bike. South of the river, you’ll find Elizabeth Fort, where you can walk the walls, see the great cannons and enjoy commanding views across the city from the bastions.  A little out of the city and to the west, you’ll find Cork Gaol, which looks much more like a castle and housed prisoners in the 19^th century. Today, lifelike wax figures and an audio-visual show bring to life the social history and lifestyles of the times - the experience is highly rated by visitors of all ages and nationalities.  

When you travel to Cork with the kids there's even more fun to be had. There’s lots to explore around the city and beyond – not far away you’ll find Fota Island Wildlife Park which they will LOVE. It’s one of Ireland’s top family attractions, leads the way in wildlife and conservation and you can get up close and personal with some of the animals who roam freely around its 100 acres.

And just a 20-minute drive northwest of Cork is the infamous Blarney Castle & Gardens, one of the finest castles in Ireland and a must do on any road trip. It’s one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, not least because it’s the home of the Blarney Stone, otherwise known as the legendary Stone of Eloquence. Statesmen from around the world, literary legends and film stars have all kissed the Blarney Stone so it must have some magic!

Venture a little further afield down Cork’s Atlantic coast and you’ll pass through charming seaside villages and towns – Kinsale is just one and notable as a stopping off point for a walk with a coffee or an ice cream. Take lots of pictures! Or if you head southwest from Cork, hop on the picturesque car ferry at Passage East and you’ll soon reach Cobh, the last port of call for Titanic on its first and last fateful journey. Visit the Titanic Experience there to find out more.