You’re never far from the water in Cork – the city is built around the River Lee and also connected by Cork Harbour to the sea. From Georgian buildings to a thriving food scene, Cork is a quirky mixture of both the traditional and the brand, spanking new.
In-spire-ing
The towering spires of Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral are one of the most famous sites in Cork. There’s a history of worship on the site dating back to the seventh century, although the Cathedral, as it is now, was consecrated in 1870.
It’s built from Cork limestone and red Cork marble, and the stained-glass windows are remarkably well-preserved. People still make pilgrimages to it and there are daily services which are open to everyone.
Butter wouldn’t melt
Ireland is justly proud of its butter, and although a museum dedicated to the spreadable stuff might seem to be spreading it a bit thin, a visit here will open your eyes.
The butter trade is a huge part of Cork’s history, and the exhibits here bring to life the dairy industry and its local importance, as well as the social and work conditions of the time, giving a more rounded view of the city’s development through the ages.
Cork cuisine
Locals make big claims for the food in Cork, and time spent sampling the cuisine here backs them up. You can feast on traditional Irish fare or indulge in the burgeoning artisan food scene.
The English Market, a covered food emporium dating back to 1788, is worth a detour for the atmosphere alone, and it’s perfect for picking up produce if you’re self-catering. You can also join one of the Fab Food Trails, a walking tour that covers much of the best grub in the region, from cheesemongers to bakers.
Make a beeline for Electric, a captivating art deco building next to the River. It boasts the Fishbar – for grilled oysters with an amazing view – and a restaurant for Irish steaks and a formal but fun feel. Tell yourself you’ll walk off the effects of the dessert tasting board for two the next day. Vegetarians should make a beeline for Iyer’s on Popes Quay for great value Indian vegetarian street food. The likes of cauliflower pakora, samosa chaat and dosas are packed with zingy flavours and cooked according to Ayurvedic principles. It's another example of the diversity you’ll find in Cork.
Escape the city
Make the most of car hire in Cork and head 20 minutes or so east to Fota Wildlife Park. Here you’ll find Gibbons, Lions, Wallabies, Cheetahs, Ring-tailed lemurs, Humboldt Penguins and Capybaras.
Many of the smaller animals simply wander around, and there’s a great education centre that explains many of the conservation projects the park undertakes. It makes for a great family day out.
If you want to push the boat out, you can plump for the ‘Warden Experience’ where you’ll get to feed the penguins, see a unique tour of the park and get hands-on with real-life wardens.
Whether you’re here for the wildlife of Fota or the nightlife of Cork, you’re bound to fall in love with this welcoming city and its people.
