Cork offers a plethora of exciting activities for families. From exploring the wonders of the universe at Blackrock Castle Observatory to enjoying the thrills at Perks Entertainment Centre, there’s something for everyone. Check out these top 20 things to do in Cork with Kids.
Thinking about a break away in the Rebel county with your other half. Our guide of things to do in Cork for couples will ensure you have a fabulous break away, no matter the weather and your interests. From cute date ideas to fun couple’s activities there’s something on this list to suit everyone.
If you are planning a romantic city break or a family getaway to Cork, be rest assured the city has so much to offer and you’d have enough to keep busy during your cork city break. we’ve put together a list of some of Cork’s most famous attractions and landmarks, these places should definitely be on your to-visit list as you plan your ideal hotel city break to Cork.
Discover all that Cork has to offer, right from our doorstep.
The Marina Market is Corks new and exciting food and craft market. The market brings new life and energy to one of the city’s oldest industrial sites just a short stroll from the city centre on the banks of the River Lee. It provides a fabulous family experience in the heart of the city.
The English Market is Cork’s only covered market and dates back to the 18th century. Here you’ll find traders selling a mix of organic, locally produced food and exciting new foods from afar. Known to the locals as a place to meet, eat and shop the English Market offers visitors a tantalising range of food to sample. The English Market is located in the city centre and is open Monday to Saturday year round.
Fantastic shopping just off St. Patricks Street in Cork city centre. The most recent and modern addition to Cork’s retail quarter. The pedestrianised Opera Lane provides a range of well-known fashion retail outlets including River Island, H&M, Next, New Look, Office, Skechers and Tommy Hilfiger.
The main shopping street in Cork City, it has won the prize of Ireland’s greatest shopping street twice. This is where you’ll find big high street favourites like Penny’s, Brown Thomas, Superdry and Lifestyle sports. With new and exciting shops opening soon including Flannels, The North Face and Dune London. Use as a base and explore surrounding lanes and the English Market to discover more of Cork city.
For GAA fans, Páirc Uí Chaoimh is the top attraction when visiting Cork city! The stadium which was recently renovated is the home of Cork GAA and has a capacity of 45,000 people. This fantastic stadium hosts far more than sporting games however, with big names in music performing in concerts throughout the year here.
Live at St. Luke’s offer a unique and spiritual environment. The music venue is located in a former church. Visitors are allowed to bring their own drinks and cushions to enjoy a special night at St. Luke’s
The oldest purpose-built theatre in Cork. The 650-seat venue is steeped in history and is a favourite with performers and audiences alike for its intimacy and atmosphere. It is the main venue for the annual Jazz Festival and the Christmas pantomime is held here each year.
This is not only an opera house but a theatre that hosts a mixture of plays, musicians and comedians. It has a heaving events calendar throughout the year so you are assured to find shows for all tastes and sizes. Before planning a visit to Cork city it’s recommended to look up what’s on at the Cork Opera House you might be pleasantly surprised what you will find.
You will be stepping back in time when you visit the Jameson Experience. The distillery dates back to the 18th century and while it’s still a working distillery, with thousands of casks housing ageing whiskey, there are tours and tastings daily throughout the year.
The Wild Atlantic Way marks Ireland’s coast line from Cork right up to Donegal. The starting point Kinsale is only a 30-minute drive from Clayton Hotel Silver Springs.
University College Cork is one of Ireland’s most prestigious National Universities and was established as one of the three Queen’s Irish colleges back in 1845. The University was named “Irish University of the Year” by the Sunday Times on 4 occasions including 2015/2016. Approximately 16,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students attend UCC.
Climb up the 132 steps of Shandon Tower and ring the world famous Shandon Bells. You will be rewarded with some spectacular views over Cork City
Blackrock Castle Observatory is a 16th century castle with interactive space science exhibits and is Ireland’s only full-time planetarium. Fun for kids, families and science enthusiasts!
Located on the banks of the River Lee, the castle dates back to the 16th century. Back then, it was used as a defence fort to look out over Cork’s upper harbour.
This medieval castle was built nearly 600 years ago and is legendary for its stone found at the top of the tower, which is said to have the power to grant the gift of the gab to those that kiss it. The castle also has over 60 acres of glorious gardens so you can explore the gardens, mystical rock close gardens, dungeons, caves, lake walk and much more. Blarney Castle is located 8km from the city centre and is open all year round.
Now an atmospheric museum, Cork Goal once housed prisoners in the 19th century. Cells are furnished with exhibits, life-size wax figures and sound effects. Experience this historic gaol with an individual audio tour. Personal group guided tours can also be arranged in advance. Cork City Gaol is located about 2km from the city centre and it is open 7 days a week all year round.
Crawford Art Gallery displays a selection of contemporary and historic Munster art from the eighteenth century to the present day, which tells a compelling story of place and history.
Your piece of tranquillity right in the heart of the city, Clayton Hotel Cork City is located on Lapp’s Quay, a short stroll from the banks of the River Lee. Why not take in some live music at The Marquee, cheer on the local teams at Pairc Uí Chaoimh, or try some of the artisan flavours at The English Market? If you want to see even more of the local area, Clayton Hotel Cork City is located in the centre of it all, giving you access to a world of sights, shops, restaurants and hidden gems. Want to know more about the local area? Ask us, we’re always personally glad to help.
