Cork Local History

Founded by St. Finbarr in the 6th century on an estuary of the River Lee, he named it Corcaigh, meaning 'marsh' in Irish.

Also known as 'Rebel Cork' its reputation was acquired from the 19th century Fenian movement who played an active part in the Irish struggle for independence.

Today the city is a thriving commercial hub with fast traffic and locals that speak so fast that not even their own countrymen cannot understand them. They are also known for their particularly dry sense of humour.

Cork Attractions

Top Attractions

Cork Shopping

Crafts of Ireland Patrick Street From weaving to wrought iron, candles, glass and pottery, this well stocked shop is worth a visit.

Meadows & Byrne Claimed to be the finish Irish home store, this shop offers glass, pottery and wrought-iron works in contemporary designs.

Shandon Craft Centre inside the Old Butter Exchange As well as offering free folk, jazz and classical concerts in the summer, browse the stalls for porcelain dolls, jewellery, crystal and handmade violins, cellos and violas.

Cork Activities

Oceanworld The Wood Dingle - Ireland's premier sea life centre is situated overlooking Dingle Harbour and the Dingle Marina. Visitors walk through an undersea tunnel to see the creatures of the deep, feel the fish life in the aquarium's touch tank and come face to face with artefacts from the Spanish Armada.

The Aqua Dome Tralee This waterworld wonderland will have kids and parents entertained for hours. The unique design features a castle with whirlpool spa and water cannons, bubble slide and fountain and mushroom spray. While the children are enjoying themselves in their area, Mums and Dads can unwind in the Sauna Dome which features two large saunas, a steam room, swimming pool and turbo sun bed.

Cork Parks & Gardens

Blarney Lake After visiting the castle take a stroll through the gardens around the lake to Badger Cave and the dungeons. Both can be explored with the aid of a flashlight.

Old Railway Line A dismantled train route running from Cork to the town of Passage West affords walkers a scenic view of the inner harbour.

Doneraile Park Here one can find specimens of unusual trees including redwoods, palms and Cork oak as well as cheery, yew and sycamore. These beautifully landscaped gardens contain artificially diverted canals, cascades and ponds spanned by stone bridges.

Cork Beaches

Some of Ireland's most remote and wild coastal regions can be found in County Cork. Long sandy beaches, high rugged cliffs and a scattering of offshore islands are part and parcel of the landscape.

It was at the harbour town of Cobh that the Titantic made per last port of call before setting out on her disastrous trip.

Cork Restaurants and Bars

The local cuisine might seem strange for some people's tastes, but they have been peculiar and popular to the folk of Cork for many years. Hot buttered eggs, tripe, 'crubeens' (pigs feet) and 'drisheens' (local blood sausage) are just a few of the dishes to be enjoyed in this area.

Cork Restaurants

Idaho Cafe 19 Caroline St. This tiny cafe in the middle of the city serves the most superb food. Bacon with new potatoes and cashew nuts or crabmeat and tuna quesadillas are just two of the unpretentious meals, which are cooked to perfection.

Jacques 9 Phoenix St. Having been around for the past twenty years and still as popular as ever, Jacques just has the knack of serving delicious meals at reasonable prices in there small dining room, with modern artwork on the walls.

The Ivory Tower 35 Princes St. Have you ever tried swordfish with banana and mango salsa or salmon with lemon geranium sauce? If not, this is the place to try. The menu is both delicious and unusual and certainly a meal eaten here, will never be forgotten.

Cork Bars & Clubs

John Henchy and Sons Summerhill Road Established by John Henchy in 1884 this pub has not changed much over the years. With its polished brass fittings, leaded-glass windows and silver tankards, its as popular today as it was back then.

Mardyke Tavern Don't let the name fool you. Two live bands playing retro and hip-hop pulsate throughout the four rooms, from early evening to late at night.

Sir Henry's The best known and biggest nightclub in the city and always packed with twenty something crowds, is where you will find the popular DJ's spinning acid, house and techno music.

Cork Weekend Breaks

Top 10 things to do in Cork for a weekend.

• Crawford Municipal Art Gallery
• Blarney Castle and Stone
• Cork Heritage Park
• Old English Market
• Barryscourt Castle

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