What to do in County Cork
Activities, attractions and tours
Visit County Cork
Activities
From Cork: Ring of Kerry Guided Day Trip
NZ$118
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Cork: Jameson Irish Whiskey & Midleton Distillery Experience
NZ$56
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Morning Blarney Castle & Kinsale Half Day Tour from Cork
NZ$94
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
From Cork: County Cork Highlights Tour with Entrance Tickets
NZ$118
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Cork Sweet Treats Food Tour: Donuts, Sweet Treats, and More
NZ$114
per adult
Cork: 2-Hour Guided Cork Harbour Scenic Cruise
NZ$56
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Cork: Hysterical Histories, Comedic Dinner Theater Show
NZ$112
per adult
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Top places to visit
1. Blarney Castle
Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.
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2. University College Cork
Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.
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3. English Market
Visit Cork’s English Market to encounter the infectious sights, sounds and smells of a centuries-old food market. Discover everything from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal ice cream, fresh seafood and locally produced cheeses. Try typical Cork fare while watching the bustling market activity from the comfort of a café or restaurant. The English Market dates back to 1788. Today its more than 50 traders form an integral part of Cork’s culinary scene.
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4. Blackrock Castle
Visit Blackrock Castle for an in-depth discovery of the universe in which we live and the chance to hear the stories of Cork’s ancient royal rulers. Officially the Blackrock Castle Observatory, The Space for Science, it has educational and historical exhibits suitable for all ages. Established as a stronghold in 1582, Blackrock Castle was later the seat of Cork’s maritime courts. It reopened as a science museum in 2007.
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5. Fota Wildlife Park
Fota Wildlife Park is an expansive rural setting where exotic animals roam and interact with one another. It focuses on conservation and improving the quality of life of the animals with vast spaces and unobtrusive barriers. Bring the kids to this picturesque island zoo to see giraffes, wild cats and primates.
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6. Cork City Gaol
Visit Cork City Gaol, where prisoners were held in gruesome conditions for almost a century during the 1800s and 1900s. Learn about this historic prison’s famous inmates, their crimes, escapes and executions while walking between the well-preserved cells. Cork City Goal opened in 1824 and became an all-female prison in 1878. It held a mix of well-known prisoners and poor citizens, many convicted of petty crimes such as stealing clothes and food.
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What to do in County Cork
Stay near popular County Cork attractions
Our guide on where to stay in County Cork
Find the best County Cork areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about County Cork
Learn more about County Cork
Cork City Centre
Travellers come to Cork City Centre for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like St. Patrick's Street and Crawford Art Gallery while you're in town.
South Parish
If you're spending some time in South Parish, Cork City Hall and Elizabeth Fort are top sights worth seeing.
Victorian Quarter
Victorian Quarter is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Everyman Palace Theatre and Leisureplex while you're in town.
Blackrock
You'll enjoy the restaurants and parks in Blackrock. You might want to make time for a stop at Blackrock Castle or Mahon Point Shopping Centre.
Shandon
Shandon is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Bells of Shandon or Butter Museum.
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