Cork Weekend Trips
Located in the South West of Ireland, Cork is the largest of all the Irish counties and the most diverse. The landscape includes everything from farmlands and river valleys to sandstone hills and the dynamic coastline of the Atlantic which branches off into large bays, mysterious coves lined with craggy rocks and golden sand beaches. Highlights include The Old Midleton Distillery, Cobh Heritage Centre and Blarney Castle.
Cork City is Dublin’s biggest competition when it comes to modern art-galleries, cocktail bars, diverse restaurants and avant-garde theatre. The city centre is architectural mixture of 17th century alley’s and modern design and surrounded by the River Lee. Cork City Gaol is an unusually interesting attraction. Take an audio-tour through the restored prison cells while listening to the accounts of former prisoners and guards for an intimate understanding of the 19th century penal system. The most common crime was petty theft for stealing bread committed by impoverished people and the penalty was hard labour. Pour your own pint at the famous Beamish & Crawford Brewery, the oldest porter brewery in Ireland or indulge your artistic fancies at Crawford Municipal Art Gallery or Lewis Glucksman Gallery just opened in 2004. If you are looking for a more spiritual experience, there is St. Anne’s Church in Shandon and climb to the top of its 18th century tower where you can take in views of the city.
