Historical Attractions
Fota House & Gardens
One of the finest examples of regency architecture in Ireland, set in superb gardens, with exciting discovery and educational activities for children.
Queenstown Heritage Centre
Tells the story of millions of Irish who emigrated to the USA from Cobh.
Charles Fort
Visit Charles Fort, a star fort located on the water's edge, at the southern end of the village of Summer Cove, on Kinsale harbour. It is one of the largest military installations in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history.
Cork City Gaol
Cork City Gaol, is a magnificent castle-like building which once housed 19th century prisoners. Take a trip back in time and wander through the wings of the Gaol, accompanied by the shuffling feet of inmates and the jingle of the warders’ keys. The cells are furnished with amazingly life-like wax figures and Graffiti on the cell walls reveals the innermost feelings of some inmates.
Nano Nagle Place
An unexpected oasis in the centre of bustling Cork City, a place that celebrates Nano Nagle’s vision of empowerment through education, community inclusion and spiritual engagement for a contemporary world. The complex houses a museum, heritage rooms, gardens, the wonderful Good Day Deli. Beautifully regenerated convent buildings are home to several educational charities.
Spike Island
Visit "Ireland's Alcatraz" and explore prision life over 1300 years ago. Easily accessible by boat from the charming town of Cobh.
Food & Drink
The Jameson experience
Built in 1825 a 1 hour tour takes you through the buildings, the large water wheel and the largest pot still in the world- followed by a tasting!
English Market
The Market was created in 1788 by the Protestant or “English” corporation that controlled the city at that time. It was a new flagship municipal market located at the heart of the new commercial city centre. English Market as a food emporium, a place where local and exotic could exist, and the English Market became a tourist destination and shopping experience alike.
Walking Activities
Ballyannan Woodland Walk
Mature mixed woodland located on the Owenacurra Estuary dating back to the mid 17th century
Family Attractions
Fota Wildlife Park
70 acres of open countryside with 90 species of exotic wildlife from 5 different continents, including giraffes and cheetahs.
Trabolgan
Tennis, go-karting, archery, live shows, paddle boats, aeroball, crazygolf, kids corner.
Leahys Open Farm
Gardens, crannog, coffee shop, adult maze, animals, go-karts, mouse shed, indoor and outdoor play areas, sandpit, kiddies maze.
Rollerjam
Rollerjam is rapidly becoming one of the most popular destinations for children and adults alike proudly boasting Irelands largest roller rink, it's the perfect place to hold events, birthdays, celebrations or just for families or friends looking to pop on a pair of skates and join in on the fun. Rollerjam caters for food, snacks, teas/coffees and we also serve wine strictly to the adults of course.
Kart World
Kart World, a purpose-built Kart circuit, 800m long and 8m wide, has the largest floodlit hire facility in Watergrasshill, Cork. With up to 20 karts on the track at any one time, Kart World can cater for any size group. Computerised race meetings and lap times on an Arrive and Drive basis. The track is flood-lit for your night-time enjoyment. The track is licensed by R.I.A.C. for all classes of Racing karts.
Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
There is no better way to see Cork City than the “Hop On, Hop Off” Tour. See all of Cork’s famous sights such as the Cork City Gaol, St. Finbarr’s Cathedral, the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, City Hall, the English Market, City Library, the Triskel Art Centre, Cork Opera House, St. Anne’s Church, the Shandon Butter Museum, the Custom House, City Library, the Courthouse, Museum & Fitzgerald Park, & Elizabeth Fort. With a ticket that is valid all day, you can get on and off as often as you wish.
Blackrock Castle & Observatory
A trip to CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory is filled with fun and educational things to do for kids, families, school groups and science enthusiasts.
West Cork Model Railway Village
A day in the Model Village is a wonderful trip back in time to the 1940’s where the West Cork Railway Line was at the heart of the many communities who lived and worked along the line. Take some time to explore the fully scaled models of West Cork towns and railway track
Mizenhead Signal Station Visitors Centre
Dare to cross the iconic Bridge high above the gorge; watch for seals and their pups in the swell below. Interpretation and displays demonstrate many different topics, completing your experience.
Lagoon Activity Centre Rosscarbery
A place where you can relax, feel free and take in the breathtaking serenity and beauty of West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way. At the Lagoon Activity Centre you will be able to rent a kayak, take the kids pedal boating, try your hand at stand up paddle boarding (SUP) or for the less adventurous, simply relax on our over water deck and pier.
Outdoor Activities
Ballincollig Regional Park
Includes a former Gunpowder Mill and measures approximately 130 acres in size containing 52 structures in varying stages of decay surviving from the gunpowder manufacturing process. The site is approximately 2.4 kilometres in length and the River Lee runs the entire northern length of the site. The park contains soccer pitches, a rugby pitch, walkways, a skateboard facility, and free-to-use outdoor fitness equipment.
Blarney Castle & Grounds
By kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, it is claimed that one can receive the "Gift of the Gab" (eloquence, or skill at flattery or persuasion). The Castle grounds are as breathtaking as the castle itself – with beautiful flower lined walkways and picnic areas.
Farran Woods
Farran Forest Park has ample car parking and a playground. Other notable features include a wildlife enclosure and a large duck pond. The wildlife enclosure holds a small herd of red and fallow deer which can easily be viewed from the way-marked Enclosure Trail that skirts the boundary fence. The duck pond is home to duck species such as mallard, teal, widgeon, shoveler and greylag, white fronted, barnacle, snow and Egyptian geese.
Shopping
Blarney Woollen Mills
Built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was originally known as Mahony's Mills. It was a water powered mill, producing mainly tweeds and woollens. After closing in the early 1970s, the mills was re-invented by local entrepreneur Christy Kelleher as a gift store servicing tourists visiting the village. It is to this day a favourite with visitors to the small tourist village.
