Cork Harbour & Kinsale
Cork
About This Route
Cork's harbour is one of the world's largest natural harbours - a waterway steeped in emigration history, naval heritage, and the tragedy of the Lusitania. This route connects the vibrant city with colourful Cobh and gourmet Kinsale.
Why This Route?
Cork Harbour offers history and flavour:
- Cobh - Last port of call for the Titanic
- Kinsale - Ireland's gourmet capital
- Cork City - Rebel city with character
- Fota Island - Wildlife park and gardens
- Maritime heritage - Centuries of seafaring history
The Route
Cork City
Ireland's second city with attitude:
The City Centre
Compact and walkable:
- St Patrick's Street (main shopping)
- English Market (covered Victorian market)
- Grand Parade
- University College Cork
The English Market
Cork's culinary heart since 1788:
- Fresh fish and meat
- Artisan cheese
- Local produce
- Queen Elizabeth II visited (2011)
Shandon
The northern heights:
- Shandon Bells (ring them yourself)
- Butter Museum
- Views over the city
Fota Island
Between Cork and Cobh:
Fota Wildlife Park
Open zoo with:
- Free-roaming animals
- Cheetahs, giraffes, penguins
- Family favourite
- Allow half day
Fota House
Regency hunting lodge with:
- Restored interiors
- Arboretum
- Victorian gardens
Cobh
The harbour town with poignant history:
Titanic Connection
Cobh was the Titanic's last port of call:
- Titanic Experience (White Star Line offices)
- Pier where passengers boarded
- Memorial garden
Queenstown Story
Heritage centre covering:
- Mass emigration
- Convict transportation
- Lusitania sinking
The Town
Steeply terraced streets:
- Colourful houses
- St Colman's Cathedral (carillon bells)
- Promenade walk
- Good cafés and restaurants
Spike Island
"Ireland's Alcatraz":
- Former prison and fort
- Ferry from Cobh
- Guided tours
- Fascinating history
Crosshaven
The yacht club village:
- Royal Cork Yacht Club (world's oldest)
- Beaches nearby
- Camden Fort Meagher
Kinsale
Ireland's gourmet capital:
The Town
Impossibly pretty:
- Narrow streets
- Colourful buildings
- Art galleries
- Excellent restaurants
Charles Fort
Star-shaped fortress (1682):
- Overlooking harbour
- OPW site
- Guided tours
- Walk from town
Desmond Castle
"French Prison":
- Wine museum
- Medieval tower house
- Town centre location
Old Head of Kinsale
Peninsula south of town:
- Lusitania memorial
- Golf course (private)
- Coastal views
- Lighthouse
Cork's Culinary Scene
English Market Highlights
- Frank Hederman's smoked fish
- On The Pig's Back (charcuterie)
- Iago (cheese)
- Kay O'Connell's fish
Kinsale Dining
The town has more restaurants per capita than anywhere in Ireland:
- Fishy Fishy
- The Bulman
- Max's
- Bastion
Walking
Cork City Heritage Trail
Self-guided walk through history.
Scilly Walk
Kinsale to Charles Fort coastal path.
Cobh Heritage Trail
Around the harbour town.
Practical Tips
- English Market - Closed Sundays
- Fota - Book wildlife park tickets online
- Spike Island - Ferry booking essential
- Kinsale parking - Limited; use car parks
- Cork traffic - Avoid rush hour
Recommended fuel stops along this route:
Fuel stations are available in major towns along the route.
