We were visiting the Butter Museum, which is just next to the Shandon Bell Tower. After visiting…read morethe Butter Museum, we stepped into the church and found that, for a small fee, we could climb to the top of the tower and even ring the bells. The church chapel itself is quite nice, but the climb to the top of tower and the bells was definitely the best bit. We had walked up to the tower and the Butter Museum from the city center and had been hearing the bells ring at random times - which seemed puzzling. It was not until we stepped into the church that we learned the reason. It should be noted that the climb to the bells and the top of the tower is not easy, requiring a few contortions, a ladder, narrow and uneven steps and a narrow stair corridor. If that does not put you off - you will be well rewarded with a great view of the city. The Bells: About half way up the stairs there is a room with eight ropes connected to the bells. There is also a little book next to the ropes showing the order that the bells should be played. No doubt we annoyed the locals by playing several short tunes on the bells.

This review is for the Shandon bells at the St. Anne's church in Cork. I never thought I'd be able…read moreto ring bells at a church, but at St. Anne's you can! This church was super close to the hostel where we stayed, so we heard the bells often (during the day, they only have specific hours you can ring them). They never got annoying or anything, though. Anyway, it's definitely neat to ring the bells! Basically you go in to the church, pay a couple euro (I forget how much, but less than 5 per person I think) and climb one flight of stairs to the bells. You can decide to ring them (there are 8 of them) in a pattern so you play a song (there's a song book w/ numbers) or you can just free-style it. We played a few songs together (my sis, husband and I) and had a blast! Then you get to climb a few more flights of stairs (SUPER narrow/dark staircases that are really vertical), and you climb through an area w/ the bells & up to more stairs that lead to the viewing deck up top. Phew! It's quite a climb, and does get really narrow (so if you're claustrophobic, maybe this isn't the best idea for you), but it's so worth the views of Cork from the top! Be sure and wear the protective ear gear they give you, because those bells are LOUD! Anyway, I was a bit skeptical, but this experience was definitely worth the money & climb :). Check it out if you're in Cork!

I know it's unfair to compare this to other jail tours in Ireland but it's really hard not to. The…read morearchitecture was gorgeous but the history was all quite surface level. I do appreciate them trying something different in tackling the stories of the jail and its prisoners.

This is a gem that all must visit. And take the guided tour!!! Rory was a great tour guide and…read moredidn't even feel like an hour plus had gone by. Fiona was always very nice and informative at the gift shop. Don't be deterred during the winter time, just dress in some layers and enjoy the ambience of the space!

I regret to inform everyone that I did not kiss the famous Blarney Stone. The queue was long and…read morethe wait time was two hours. Basically, the length of the drive to Blarney Castle. Plot twist, skipping the queue and exploring the grounds was the better decision. The castle grounds are basically a real-life fairytale mixed with a hint of tranquility. The walk around the property is peaceful, scenic, and picturesque. Highly recommend wandering over to the lake and stopping by the mansion.

Blarney Castle is a must-see. It's a privately owned property. The gardens are spectacular. They're…read morethe greenest gardens I've ever seen. Each section in the garden has a theme. It's fun. The castle is surrounded by the gardens and a stream that flows around it. It's beautiful. Once inside, the stairs are a bit intimidating on your way to the top. The stone is an additional level higher than when you first arrive up. There's someone at the site to help with your Blarney stone kiss. Just don't look down! After you've kissed the Blarney, be sure to make your way to the coffee and gift shop. Grab an Irish or Bailey's coffee and soak it all in. Congratulations on your adventure.

Definitely worth visiting this charming coastal city with great history. We took a guided walking…read moretour as suggested by Rick Steve's guidebooks and this really allowed us to walk in the footsteps of the history of this city. The food options are great for lunch or breakfast and we enjoyed walking along the coast to visit the military star fortress (Charles Fort).

Kinsale is a beautiful port city located at the mouth of the Bandon River in south County Cork…read more It has a rich history going back a thousand years to the Anglo-Norman conquests. It had been called "one of the most significant harbors in Europe" and should not be missed. Even with all its history, Kinsale today is a beautiful seaside town, with picture postcard houses doting the harbor (photo) area. Temperatures tend to be warmer though mild, with a nice sea breeze. There's a several parks with benches if you get tired of walking. There are also a lot of seafood restaurants if you get hungry. Parking along the water is available and no one seems to mind if you park all day. Just a few miles/km away is Charles Fort (see Review) with it rich history. It is part of the OPS and has a beautiful view of the colorful downtown area. We stayed at Rivermount House B&B nearby, which we would recommend.

We took a short drive outside of Kinsale to visit Charles Fort…read more Street parking was free and less than five minutes walk to get to the entrance. Admission was free with our Heritage Card. We wandered through most of the fort. Most of the buildings were ruins (destroyed during the Irish Civil War) except for a couple near the entrance. The barracks contained two stories of exhibits about the fort, James Fort (across the bay), living as a soldier, and the notable Williamite War. There were scenic views of the bay and Kinsale from the ramparts. Some of the ruins were off limits but many were signed so we could understand what their purpose was. If you wanted to just see buildings with exhibits then check out the barracks (mentioned earlier), fire engine house and the gunpowder magazine.

If you're visiting Cork, Ireland, Charles Fort is an absolute must-see. The star-shaped fort is not…read moreonly impressive in its scale and design, but it also offers some of the most breathtaking views over Kinsale Harbour. Walking along the walls, you get a real sense of the history that has unfolded here--from battles and sieges to its later use as a garrison. The fort is very well maintained, and the wonderful guides help bring the story of the place to life. I especially enjoyed how much space there was to wander at your own pace--it never felt crowded. The guides on site were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about sharing the history. We would not have come here if we had not been on a wonderful tour of Ireland with Derek of Private Tours of Ireland https://www.privatetourscork.ie It's a great spot for families, couples, or anyone interested in history. Plan to spend at least an hour or two to really take it all in, and don't forget your camera--the views are spectacular! Reach out to Derek at Private Tours of Ireland https://www.privatetourscork.ie/about-us to arrange your tour of Ireland. Based in Cork, they specialize in luxury, chauffeur-driven private tours that combine iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and authentic Irish culture. Every tour is tailor-made to your interests, pace, and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable journey across Cork and beyond. Whether you're visiting Blarney Castle, the Dingle Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry, or the Cliffs of Moher, their expert guides bring Ireland's history, landscapes, and stories to life. From city streets to the rugged coast, we create experiences that go beyond sightseeing -- they connect you with the true spirit of Ireland. We are grateful we found them and they took us to Kinsale to see Charles Fort.

DRAKE'S POOL You will pass Drake's Pool, a scenic part of…read morethe estuary, on the road from Carrigaline to Crosshaven. There is a car park nearby so you can stretch your legs and take in the pleasant view of the historic spot. Apparently, in 1589 or thereabouts (you will see other dates, though 1589 is the one on the nearby commemorative plaque), Sir Francis Drake (1540-96) was being pursued by elements of the Spanish Armada who chased him into Cork Harbour. But the Spaniards didn't have the local knowledge and sailed past the Crosshaven estuary and up towards the city instead. They missed Drake and his handful of sheltering ships and sailed out again. The relieved Englishman allowed a few days to elapse before venturing back to the open sea. It must have been a nervous time but today the location is all about relaxation, plenty of seats around the modest tree lined "pool" and many pleasure craft bobbing at anchor with not a care in the world.

It's been far too long since I was in Ireland, and Cork in particular!! I spent many happy hours…read morewandering around the city and up and down the riverside and over all the bridges. I just came across this photo which I took of Patrick's Bridge the last time I was there. It's one of many well known landmarks of the city. The first bridge built in this spot was unfortunately swept away in a flood in 1789 - actually before it was even finished. The bridge was then rebuilt and opened several months later. It was also destroyed by another terrible flood in 1853. A design was then drawn for a brand new stone bridge and then the work was given to Joshua Hargrave - actually the grandson of a man who had helped to build the first bridge. The foundation stone was laid in 1859 and the Mayor of Cork opened the new Patrick's Bridge on the 12th December, 1861. The Bridge was reconstructed and improved in 1981.

MASONIC LODGE…read more Since 1844, the headquarters of Freemasonry in the province of Munster has been the Masonic Hall in Tuckey Street, one of the many premises throughout the city that opened their doors to the public on August 28th, National Heritage Day. It is also the meeting place of the local St Fin Barre's Lodge No. 8. I called in there soon after opening time and found it quite busy. Got a big welcome and an information leaflet and spent some time wandering around the various floors and looking at the souvenirs and artefacts of the order over the centuries. Here you will find many historical items, including the original ceremonial level used at the laying of the foundation stone of the modern Patrick's Bridge (1859) and later at St Fin Barre's Cathedral (1865); ceremonial mason aprons, and banners, emblazoned with coats of arms of Prince Masons past and present, antique chairs and desks and so much more. And indeed, there would have even more but for the 1970 fire that destroyed the adjoining Jennings Furniture and that damaged part of the Lodge. If you'd like to visit, a coffee morning is held each Friday from 10.15am to 11.45am. All are welcome to visit and it is often an excellent introduction for prospective members. All proceeds from these mornings are donated to charity. For more info on the Freemasons, see the website: http://www.munsterfreemason.com