Cork

The River Lee flows through the city in two channels and forms a central island.

The county of Cork, possibly Ireland’s mildest region, owing to the beneficial influence of the Atlantic current, is considered one of the most spectacular areas on the island. Cork, the county town, stands at the mouth of the river Lee, set deep into the Cork Harbour inlet. The city was built initially on a river island, around an ancient monastery from 650 d.c. Cork is a city of quays and bridges, that run alongside and span the river Lee. The city’s hills and glades are interrupted by wharfs and gangways. Its windy streets, which were once canals, still possess the bollards used to moor the merchant ships.

These bollards are easily visible lining both sides of St Patrick’s street, which today is the city’s main shopping area. Visitors can admire the Victorian buildings, dating back to 19th century which line Grand Parade to St Patrick’s Street. This elegant road, stands alongside one of the tributaries of the Lee and forms the heart of the city of Cork. It is the site of the market and Bishop Lucey Park, which houses what remains of the ancient city walls. The south end of the street is closed by a national monument, erected in honour of Irish patriots of the period 1798-1867. This zone is also the site of picturesque houses with 18th century façades and narrow streets, which allow glimpses of the surrounding glades and clearings.

At the extreme north of St Patrick’s Street, the river is spanned by the three arches of St Patrick’s Bridge, built in 1861 and one of Cork’s most beautiful bridges. Fitzgerald’s Park in Western Road, situated on the east fork of the river Lee, is the preferred destination for Dubliner’s wishing to take a leisurely stroll. The park grounds house a small café, the Tea house, sports fields and the Georgian house, which is home to the Cork Public Museum, where it is possible to obtain an in-depth knowledge of the history of the city up to the beginning on the 20th century. The end of the park, which stands on the banks of the river and has access in Western Road and Donovan’s Road, is the site of the University College York. The building, constructed in 1849, is in Tudor style, evident above all in the University’s central courtyard. A fine collection of Ogham Stones are on display in the corridors of the north-wing building, which looks onto Western Road. The Department of Plant Science is located to the left of the Boole Library entrance. The Homan Chapel is well worth a visit, This small chapel built in 1915 possesses stained- glass windows featuring Celtic designs.

Cork is renown for its artists, musicians and writers. The city has an intensive cultural programme, which can be sampled through its many festivals, held throughout the year, including: the international festivals of cinema, jazz, folk-dance and choral music. Students can enjoy Cork’s active night-life with the city’s numerous theatres, restaurants, pubs and discothèques.

Tips for: backpackers • business travelers • luxury/exotic travel • hitchhikers • families • seniors • LBG travelers • pet owners

Attractions

• The Cork City Market, open in 1789, stands between Grand Parade and St. Patrick’s Street. The British architecture is reflected in the arches, galleries and fountains. The fishmonger stalls are particularly interesting.
• Cork’s most famous church is the Shandon Steeple,which stands on a hill to the north of the river. The steeple’s eight bells can be rung by visitors.
• The ancient butter market built in 1770, and site of extraordinary trade and commerce with {{Spain]], Germany and the West Indies, is located near to the steeple.
• St. Finnbarr’s Cathedral is located in Dean Street. The cathedral, built in gothic style and one of the most important monastic schools, has marble interior and a wonderful rose window in its façade.
• The court House in Washington Street, built in 1834, has an ornate front complete with Corinthian columns.
• The Crawford Art gallery, built in 1724, is located in Emmet place and houses a collection of sculptures and paintings of modern and ancient Irish artists.
• The City Hall(1936) stands on the banks of the river Lee and its architecture blends well with the other elegant buildings in the vicinity.
• The Triskel Arts Centre, in Tobin Street, is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm and houses temporary exhibitions and theatrical productions.
• Blarney Castle, the fortress of Cormac Mccarthy, built in 1446, is located 9 km to the north-west of Cork.
• Some of the paths, which lead from the castle, take the visitor through the surrounding park and superb Rocklose Gardens, home to traces of an old Druid temple. The castle is open in the summer from 9am to 5.30pm.
• The trail, which leaves Cork and crosses the hills in a south westerly direction to the coast, is highly interesting and leads the visitor to Baltimore, where it is possible to catch a boat to Cape Clear and the Sherkin Isles.
• The pretty fishing village of Bantry is located 90 km west of Cork and is the site of Bantry House, a residence built in 1740 complete with Italian garden, statues and terrace.
• Travelling south west, it is possible to visit Kinsale, with its beautiful 18th century buildings, picturesque port, fishing fleet and Charles Fort. Summer Cove bay offers splendid views of the port and fort.

Maps and transportation

Exploring Cork

The Tourist Office, in Grand Parade, provides information on the Cork Tourist Trail, a route around the city, which permits the visitor to take in the city sights.

Cork is a city of modest dimensions and can be easily visited on foot. The city bus service is operated by Bus Eireann. For information on bus routes and timetables, visitors should contact the office in Parnell Place (Tel.21 508188).

Practical information and resources

Currency : Euro

Electric supply: the supply is standard 220volts A.C. An adaptor may be necessary.

Climate : temperate

Language : Irish, English

Opening hours : shops are open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5:30/6pm

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• Cork Review