Cork, Southern Ireland Attractions
Shandon Bells, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, Blarney Castle & Hotels
Sep 11, 2007
If you're finally planning that vacation in Ireland you've always dreamed of, don't forget to schedule in some time to explore Cork, Ireland's second biggest city. Most tourists flock to Dublin, but don't be fooled by the big city lights and smoke. Cork is a beautiful gem nestled on the south coast of the emerald isle, and it's worth taking some time to settle into the more relaxed, easygoing pace of this friendly city.
Cork City Attractions
There are many exciting things to do and places to see in Cork city. The Shandon Bells are a prominent landmark of Cork City, and the tower which houses them stands proudly above the city. You can climb up the tower and ring the bells yourself, and the views from the tower balcony are the best in the city. Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral is a breathtaking example of Victorian church architecture. Designed by William Burges in 1862, it remained incomplete until the tower and spires were finally constructed in 1879.
Shopping
Wandering through the shops in Cork is an enjoyable way to spend a day (or two, or three!) The English Market is a great place to find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, and excellent artisan breads. Clothes, books, music and electronics can be found all along Patrick Street and Paul Street.
Culture
Cork boasts the title of being the European Capital of Culture in 2005. For up to the minute recommendations and listings, check whazon.com. Highlights of the local cultural offerings include the Everyman Palace Theatre and the outdoor beer garden at The Franciscan Monk microbrewery. When you arrive in Cork, you may find yourself a bit puzzled at the way the locals speak. Glancing through the dictionary of Cork slang before you arrive will help you get a haircut, find a happening pub and understand groups of youth as they pass in the street.
Hotels and Accommodation
Cork has many excellent hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and holiday cottages to choose from. The Jurys Cork Hotel is located within easy walking distance to all the attractions of the city center and the University. The Gresham Metropole is another Cork hotel that is found in the very heart of the city, beside the Everyman Palace Theatre on MacCurtain Street.
Exploring County Cork
The surrounding countryside of County Cork is stunning, with patchwork fields scattered across rolling green hills, great expanses of sandy beach, and rocky headlands that jut out into the ocean. Barley Cove beach is the perfect spot to spend a long, lazy summer day. If you enjoy sailing, check out the towns of Schull (pronounced like skull) and Baltimore. If you want a shorter excursion from Cork city, the nearby town of Kinsale offers beautiful seaside views, great seafood, and a collection of quirky shops that specialise in art, antiques and collectibles. There is a bus that regularly travels to Kinsale from Cork city center, which makes it an ideal day trip destination. Schedules can be found on the Bus Eireann website.
Another popular Cork tourist attraction is Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the fabled Blarney Stone and gain the gift of the gab. Beware though, as this feat is not for the faint of heart. In order to kiss the stone you must first climb to the very top of an old stone castle, lie down on the floor, reach out and grab a metal bar that is attached to the castle wall and pull your upper body out over a gap between the castle floor and the wall, where the Blarney Stone itself is located. The castle staff have kindly employed a man who will hold onto your legs and prevent you from falling through the hole!
There are so many attractions in Cork your holiday is sure to be an enjoyable one. However, if you find yourself ready to explore but the weather is less than delightful, make the most of a rainy day by going down to the nearest pub, ordering yourself a tall Murphy's and striking up a conversation with a local. There's no better introduction to the city!
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