It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s eight must-see sites in Cork, Ireland.
As mainland Ireland’s most southerly point, Mizen Head draws many to its coastline to see dramatic cliffs, white-capped seas, an old signal station and a lighthouse far out at sea, as well as feel the fresh Atlantic wind. Accessing the end of Mizen Head entails crossing a footbridge 150 feet high. © Matthi | Dreamstime.com
Situated within Cork City, Blackrock Castle Observatory is a 16th-century castle now operating as an observatory, restaurant and visitor center. The castle often hosts events and exhibitions about history and science, particularly in the field of astronomy. © Giancarlo Liguori | Dreamstime.com
One of the most well-known landmarks in Ireland, a visit to Blarney Castle must include venturing to the top of the castle, leaning back and kissing the stone to receive “the gift of the gab.” Tour the 15th-century castle before walking its grounds, which feature gardens and even a poison garden, showcasing the world’s most poisonous plants like hemlock and nightshade. Nearby, Blarney Woolen Mills offers traditional meals and a heritage shop. © Stephen Smith | Dreamstime.com
Old Head of Kinsale not only features green cliffs, but also serves as the nearest point where the RMS Lusitania sank in 1918. A memorial garden lies at Lusitania Museum & Signal Tower Museum in Old Head. © Stefano Valeri | Dreamstime.com
The seaside town of Cobh was the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912, with the original dock still standing as a haunting reminder. Cobh’s colorful houses line the hilly streets overlooking the ocean, with the dominating cathedral at the top, making the town a vibrant place, especially in summer. The town also includes a heritage center exploring Ireland’s mass emigrations, as well as Fota Wildlife Park and Spike Island, an 18th-century bastion fort. © Artur Bogacki | Dreamstime.com
Cork City is the second-largest city in Ireland, positioned between two channels of the River Lee. Originally a Viking settlement, today, the city boasts many restaurants, hotels, bars and attractions. The main St. Patrick’s Street is a pedestrian-friendly street with countless shops, while Oliver Plunkett Street welcomes visitors to its popular pub of the same name. © Madrugadaverde | Dreamstime.com
Cork’s English Market was the site of Queen Elizabeth’s 2011 visit, where a fishmonger made the late Queen laugh, calling monkfish “the mother-in-law fish.” This hall continues to be a bustling place, operating since 1788. The market sells everything from baked goods to seafood, fruits to meats, spices to wines. The space even includes several cafés and restaurants. © David Ribeiro | Dreamstime.com
While its main headquarters lie in Dublin, Jameson’s presence in Cork includes a museum and visitor center. Jameson Distillery Midleton offers tours of the distillery, still in use, as well as a whiskey tasting and walk of the distillery’s grounds. © David Ribeiro | Dreamstime.com
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