Top Things to do in County Cork
Things to do in County Cork, Province of Munster: The Best Historic Sites
Discover the best top things to do in County Cork, Ireland including Ballinacarriga Castle, Kilcatherine Church and Cemetery, Abbeystrewry Graveyard, Sam Maguire Visitor Experience, Blarney Castle & Gardens, Cork City Gaol, Spa House, Bridgetown Priory, Birthplace of Michael Collins, Charles Fort.
Restaurants in County Cork
1. Ballinacarriga Castle
2. Kilcatherine Church and Cemetery
3. Abbeystrewry Graveyard
4. Sam Maguire Visitor Experience
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Sam Maguire Visitor Experience is located in St. Mary's Church, Dunmanway. Sam Maguire, a Dunmanway man, is best known for the famous GAA cup which is named after him. Sam was an Irish patriot who devoted his life to establishing Ireland as an independent state. He worked in the Post Office in London as an undercover spy for Michael Collins and is buried in St. Mary's churchyard. In 2017, 90 years after his death, a set of 8 church bells were installed in his memory. Come and see Sam Maguire's grave, learn about the man behind the famous cup through a selection of audio visuals and ring a few tunes on his memorial bells. Suitable for both adults and children. Open daily July/August. All other times by appointment only. Admission to the church is free. €5 per adult to access the visitor experience and ring the bells. We welcome enquiries for group bookings outside normal opening hours.
5. Blarney Castle & Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,308 reviews
Situated 8km from Cork City, this historic castle is most famous for its stone, which has the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it. The word Blarney was introduced into the English language by Queen Elizabeth I and is described as pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending. The stone is set in the wall below the battlements, and to kiss it one has to lean backwards (grasping an iron railing) from the parapet walk. LAST ADMISSION IS 60 MINS BEFORE CLOSING TIME/Dogs Not Permitted/Drone Photography Prohibited
Reviewed By rulesnations - Tuscaloosa, United States
Our family had a great trip to Blarney, perfect weather and beautiful grounds are beyond what I expected. I imagine the busy travel season might be tougher on kissing the stone but we only waited 20-30 mins and the walk up is interesting as you read each plaque. The Stone was fine but I never expected the amount of other opportunities to be so good. Kids absolutely loved it, would highly recommend a full day there.
6. Cork City Gaol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,784 reviews
Corks Most Captivating Experience:A step back in time to see what 19th/early 20th century life was like-inside and outside prison walls. Historical experience brought to life with amazingly lifelike figures, furnished cells, sound effects & fascinating exhibitions. This exhibition fascinates visitors of all ages and nationalities and the tour is available in up to 13 languages.
Reviewed By 203sylvanah - Ireland, null
Brilliant activity to do, cool to see the history of the place, very interesting place to see. You are given headphones on this tour so you can take your time looking around pause and play again when ready.
7. Spa House
8. Bridgetown Priory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By Anniebannie1981 - Cork, Ireland
I had learned about this place from Trip Advisor as I was travelling through this area, and decided that we would try to visit here. Finding the Priory was an adventure in itself and the roads are very narrow travelling to the Priory. There is limited parking and we were so happy to see the Priory from a distance, only stopping three times to ask for directions. When we arrived, the area was very well kept and there were so many boards with information in each room. Although there were many cars at the Priory, there was plenty of space to go around and be physical distant. It was disappointing to see some of the Priory in ruins. There was scaffolding around some of it, so many there will be some renovation work. There is no fee and you are free to meander around the whole area. It was so lovely and welcoming. A must when you are in the area.
9. Birthplace of Michael Collins
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
Reviewed By DUN01170 - Dublin, Ireland
This is a hidden gem. The approach signposting is a little wayward, but the end justifies the journey! The temptation to refurbish or reconstruct has been resisted. It is easy to understand the layout of the buildings and understand how a strong farming family like the Collins lived. The events of the final days of the farmhouse are well presented. Do remember to visit the 4 Alls just up the road to see the beautiful Seamus Murphy memorial to Michael Collins.
10. Charles Fort
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,197 reviews
Reviewed By JackWhite - Arklow, Ireland
Thoroughly enjoyable visit, well handled by OPW staff, informative guides and map, really worth a visit and to give an insight into the town’s history
