Cork
South West • Ireland
Cork City Centre on River Lee
Medieval Blarney Castle
Historic English Market
Cobh Harbour, Titanic's Last Port
Medieval Blarney Castle
Historic English Market
Cobh Harbour, Titanic's Last Port
Known as the 'Rebel County', Cork is Ireland's culinary capital with incredible food markets, artisan producers, and coastal beauty. The English Market has been the heart of Cork's food scene since 1788, showcasing the finest local produce from Ballycotton seafood to Gubbeen cheese. Cork city sits on the River Lee, with its Grand Parade and Patrick Street forming elegant shopping thoroughfares lined with 18th and 19th-century architecture. The nearby Blarney Castle, built in 1446, attracts visitors worldwide to kiss the famous Blarney Stone for the 'gift of eloquence'. Cobh, Cork's historic port town, served as the last port of call for the RMS Titanic and remains a poignant reminder of Irish emigration history. The county encompasses Ireland's second-largest city alongside charming coastal villages like Kinsale, renowned for its annual Gourmet Festival and colourful harbourside houses.
The must-see experiences that define this remarkable county
Kiss the famous Blarney Stone at medieval Blarney Castle for the legendary 'gift of eloquence'
Explore the 230-year-old English Market, Ireland's finest covered food market
Visit Cobh Heritage Centre where 2.5 million Irish emigrants began their journey to America
Tour Cork City Gaol, a restored 19th-century prison showcasing Ireland's penal history
Discover Crawford Art Gallery's collection of Irish art in a beautiful 18th-century custom house
Stroll through Fitzgerald Park with its museum, gardens, and iconic Shakey Bridge
Experience Kinsale's gourmet restaurants and historic Charles Fort overlooking the harbour
Walk the halls of University College Cork, one of Ireland's finest Queen Anne Revival campuses
Cork Airport (ORK) is 8km south of the city with direct flights across Europe. Kent Station provides rail links to Dublin (2.5 hours) and other major Irish cities. Bus Éireann operates regular coach services to Cork's Bus Station on Parnell Place.
May to September offers the warmest weather for exploring outdoor attractions. October brings the Cork Jazz Festival, whilst September features the Kinsale Gourmet Festival.
Insider knowledge to enhance your visit
The English Market is best visited mid-morning when vendors are fully stocked
Book Blarney Castle tickets online to skip queues, especially during summer months
Cork's hilly terrain makes comfortable walking shoes essential
Many galleries and museums offer free admission on Friday afternoons
Take the scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to nearby Kinsale
Stunning views from across Cork
Cork City Centre on River Lee
Medieval Blarney Castle
Historic English Market
Cobh Harbour, Titanic's Last Port
Everything you need to know about visiting Cork
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