Cork City is a vibrant and cultural hub, but there is much more to explore beyond its boundaries. Whether you are looking for nature, history, or adventure, you will find plenty of options in the surrounding areas and across the county of Cork. If you are staying at The Kingsley Hotel Cork, you can easily access these attractions by car and enjoy a memorable day trip.
Here are some of our top recommendations:
Fota Wildlife Park is one of the most popular attractions in Cork, where you can see over 100 species of exotic free-roaming animals in a natural and spacious environment. Visitors can walk among the animals, feed the giraffes, watch the penguins, and learn about conservation efforts.
Also on site is the Fota House and Arboretum, a regency-style building that reflects the lifestyle of the early 19th and 20th centuries. Fota Wildlife Park is only a 20-minute drive from The Kingsley Hotel Cork.
If you are a golf enthusiast, you will be spoilt for choice in Cork, which is home to some of Ireland’s finest golf courses. The Kingsley’s sister hotel, the 5-star Fota Island Resort, which hosted the 2014 Irish Open, is home to a 27-hole parkland golf course shaped by 780 acres of stunning woodlands.
There are several other championship golf courses within easy reach of the hotel, such as the Cork Golf Club and Lee Valley Golf & Country Club both of which offer idyllic views, challenging holes, and world-class facilities.
Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, this ancient site is one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks where scores of tourists visit every day to “kiss the Blarney Stone”.
The castle dates back to the 15th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and caves. Blarney Castle is only a 15-minute drive from The Kingsley Hotel.
The charming medieval fishing town of Kinsale, known as the gourmet capital of Ireland, is a 40-minute drive from the hotel. Visitors can sample some of the finest seafood, local produce, and craft beers at the many restaurants, pubs, and cafes, before exploring the surrounding narrow streets, shops and galleries, and beautiful buildings. Nearby attractions include historic sites such as Charles Fort, Desmond Castle, and the Old Head Signal Tower.
Located in the town of Midleton, the Jameson Distillery is the original site where the famous Irish whiskey was first distilled in 1780. Visitors can take a guided tour of the old distillery, learn about the history and production of whiskey, and taste some of the finest blends. When you’re done marvelling at the ancient mills, corn stores and kilns, you can relax at the bar and restaurant, and browse the onsite gift shop.
Set on the banks of the stunning River Lee, the 16th-century Blackrock Castle has been transformed into a modern science and astronomy centre. It’s here that you can discover the wonders of the universe, interact with exhibits, and watch shows at the fascinating planetarium, all the while enjoying views of the river and Cork Harbour.
Situated just 30 kilometres from the Kingsley hotel, the Titanic Experience is a museum that tells the story of the Titanic’s last port of call before its tragic voyage. Its location marks the departure point for the last 123 passengers who boarded the Titanic on its fateful maiden voyage to America.
Visitors can relive the experience of the passengers, see the original pier, and view unique Titanic artifacts and memorabilia, as well as learn about the history of Cobh and its maritime heritage.
A day trip to the Model Railway Village in Clonakilty, West Cork, is a must-see for train lovers of all ages. It is a replica of a 1940s Irish village, complete with a model railway, vintage cars, and a playground.
Walking into the model village, you step back in time and see the old West Cork railway line portrayed in delightful miniature serving the towns. There are also plenty of shops to explore and when you’re ready for some adventure, you can take a road train tour of Clonakilty and see the surrounding historic sights.
Located 1 hour from Cork City, the Lismore Heritage Centre is a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of Lismore, a picturesque town in the Blackwater Valley. Visitors can browse exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that cover topics such as the Lismore Castle, the Book of Lismore, and the local legends and folklore. Other nearby attractions that are definitely worth a visit include the Lismore Cathedral and the Lismore Farmer’s Market.
