10 Date Ideas in Cork in 2025

– 2- min read

Thinking about a weekend away in Cork city with your better half?

Or looking for something fun to do in the People’s Republic? Clayton Hotel Silver Springs have taken the time to think up fun date ideas with some of our favourite off the beaten track activities for couples in Cork

We have steered away from the more well-known places like Blackrock Castle Observatory and Fota Wildlife Park, but if you want to learn more about the classic attractions check out our couple's guide to Cork.

Here are some alternative date ideas:

1. Ring the Shandon Bells

Did you know you can climb the Shandon bell tower and ring the bells of this Cork landmark? What a wonderful way to mark your stay in Cork with your nearest and dearest. Climbing the 132 steps to the top is well worth it for the views across Cork city. It is also a bargain activity to boot.

2. Hire bikes

One of the best things about visiting a compact city, like Cork, is it is the perfect size for a cycle. There are two options for your date, take an organised bicycle tour of Cork or hire bicycles and do your own thing. There are lots of sites around the city and outlying areas that are easy to access by bike, this is the ideal couple’s day out for couples looking for a leisurely activity.

3. Kayaking tour of Cork

Looking for a fun date idea? See Cork from a very different perspective with an under the bridges kayaking tour on the river Lee. On the tour you will be entertained with stories of the city’s long history and the wildlife you pass along the way.

4. Indoor Climbing

Rainy day? No problem, indoor climbing is the perfect date idea in Cork. You and your beloved can reinforce your trust in each other by becoming climbing partners. This indoor climbing centre caters to people with all levels of experience and none. Awesome Walls have over 800m2 of climbing surfaces with 200+ routes for you to try.

5. Afternoon Tea

If all that activity leaves you hungry, why not catch up with your partner over a romantic afternoon tea in Cork. This cute date idea is ideal for reconnecting over tea and cakes overlooking the river Lee. Or go all out and have a glass of bubbly too!

Romantic Restaurants in Cork

If you are looking for date ideas in Cork, you really must visit a restaurant, there are markets and restaurants to suit every budget in Cork

The English Market is a great place to pick up some delicious ingredients for a picnic nearby. Or treat yourselves to a meal in one of the cafés. Even wandering around the English Market is a lovely way to pass a few hours in Cork. One of the oldest local markets in the world, it has been trading since 1788. The best news is, it’s covered so it’s the perfect spot to shelter from a shower of rain.

This plant filled contemporary restaurant serves a wide selection of beautifully presented Irish and European fare. Located in Cork’s old Turkish baths, the high ceilings and artwork give Jacobs on the Mall a wonderfully romantic ambiance.

If you are looking for an upmarket vegetarian option for a romantic meal in Cork, Paradiso is the place to go. This Asian inspired restaurant consistently gets 5-star reviews from those who enjoy a meal there. Renowned for its seasonal menu, you are bound to find something delicious to enjoy no matter when you visit.

This cosy Cork restaurant is the perfect option for a meal with your loved one. Specialising in seafood and steak in a New York style setting, Cornstore prides itself on sourcing the very best local ingredients.

Is craft beer your thing? Then this is the perfect date night idea for you – head for Elbow Lane Brew and Smokehouse. Their inhouse nano brewry is bound to have a beer for you. Specialising in grilled meat and fish, their barbeque sauce is so popular you can buy a jar to bring home. Candle lit with open fires this cosy eatery is rustically romantic. Check out our blog for top cork city restaurants worth adding to your list.