Cork is a stunning city that is perfect for exploring its rich history, culture, and nature on foot. Named as one of the top destinations in the Lonely Planet’s “Best of Travel 2010” guide, Cork offers a variety of attractions and activities for travellers who enjoy sightseeing on foot.
Whether you want to browse the renowned English Market, marvel at the award-winning Gluckman Art Gallery, or visit the Cork Public Museum, there is something for everyone.
Here are some of the best things to do on foot while visiting Cork.
If you’re looking for a place to eat, shop, and soak up the local culture, you can’t miss the English Market. This is the oldest and most famous market in Cork, and it’s a feast for the senses. You’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh fish and organic vegetables to exotic spices and handmade chocolates. You’ll also get to meet the friendly and passionate traders, who have been running their businesses for generations, as well as the new wave of artisan producers, who are bringing innovation and creativity to the market.
If you love art, you’ll love the Gluckman Art Gallery. Located in an award-winning building, visitors can discover, create, and explore the world of visual arts in Ireland and beyond. The gallery often hosts cultural exhibitions, talks, creative workshops, and art courses - all of which are open to the public. Education is the core theme of the activities with a wide range of art workshops, film screenings, seminars, lecture series and gallery tours on offer throughout the year.
The Gluckman Art Gallery has received numerous awards including Best Public Building in Ireland from the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland, a RIBA award, a UK Civic Trust award, and was shortlisted for the Stirling Prize.
Experience the thrill and excitement of a high-speed RIB adventure across the world’s second-largest natural harbour. Follow the path of the famous Titanic as it departed from the town of Queenstown, now known as Cobh, and learn about the history of the harbour and the Irish emigration to America and beyond. Witness some of the most scenic and historic landmarks of the harbour, such as the Roches Point Lighthouse, the Camden Fort, the Carlisle Fort, and the Royal Cork Yacht Club. And don’t worry, there will be plenty of opportunities to take photos of the stunning views of the sea and the coastline, as well as the wildlife that inhabits the harbour, such as puffins, seals, and dolphins.
Built in 1722, the Church of St. Anne offers visitors spectacular 360-degree views of Cork City and is a much-loved landmark and tourist attraction. The church reaches an impressive 50 metres high and visitors can climb the narrow stone steps all the way to the top where the bell tower is. Its famous chime can be heard throughout the city and visitors are welcome to ring the eight bells which together, weigh over 6 tonnes!
Known as one of the premier buildings in the city, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral has been known to be a place of worship since the 7th century. This stunning Gothic Revival three-spire Church of Ireland cathedral is located on the south bank of the River Lee and dedicated to Finbarr of Cork, patron saint of the city.
The cathedral is of major international significance as one of the key buildings of Burges and of nineteenth-century architecture in Ireland. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the cathedral and surrounding grounds and labyrinth, as well as musical performances by Musical Director Peter Stobart.
Arthur-Mayne’s Heritage Pub is a wine bar located in one of the city’s oldest commercial buildings, dating back to the early 1700s. The quirky bar was once home to a chemist and today it features rooms filled with glass cabinets of medicines, cosmetics, cameras and perfumes from the past 120 years. Located adjacent to Crane Lane Theatre, it’s the perfect spot for a pre-theatre cocktail or dinner.
As one of Ireland’s leading middle-scale producing theatres, the Everyman Palace Theatre, home to a beautiful 650-seat theatre is a jewel of late Victorian architecture. A listed building, the theatre is steeped in history and is a favourite with audiences and performers alike for its intimacy and atmosphere.
Cork Public Museum is housed in a two-storey Georgian house commanding a central position in Fitzgerald Park. Originally built in 1895 by the Beamish family, the museum is set on 18 acres of magnificent gardens.
