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!

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Free admittance with a free guided tour through the castle - and in my opinion although smaller,…read moreBarryscourt is way better than Blarney. Our tour guide was excellent and very informative. The castle has been (and continues to be) restored so you get to see each floor as it might have been not just stone rooms without floors like at Blarney. There's a lovely small garden and an orchard within the walls. Close to Fota House and Gardens this is an excellent stop while you're in the area and you can make a full day out of it by also visiting Fota. Fota Gardens and Arboretum are also free.

BARRYSCOURT CASTLE Paid my first visit in decades to…read moreBarryscourt Castle, an impressive relic of the 16th century court of the Barry family. Impressive enough as a stark ruin in the 80s but now it's much improved and well worth a visit, particularly since there is no charge at all, and that includes the guided tour of the interior. Time was short yesterday so we contented ourselves with a walk around the outside of the castle itself, through the herb garden and a large orchard. There are records of an orchard there since the 13th century and this one, with dozens of apple varieties, is laid out according to the 16th century manner. There are smaller plantings of pears and quinces. There is an information office with very helpful and friendly staff, toilets and a cafe and it is just off the main national road (N25). It is a very pleasant visit indeed and I'll be back for a longer stay, perhaps during Heritage Week which takes place in venues across the country from August 21st. Most events are free to enter, some have reduced charges. This is one of many available. See the Heritage Ireland site http://www.heritageireland.com or pick up the comprehensive National Heritage Week brochure at your local library. http://www.heritageireland.ie/en/South-West/BarryscourtCastle/ Tel: +353 21 488 3864

THE ELYSIAN You can't miss the Elysian when you are in Cork:…read moreit is the tallest building, with a 17 storey high tower as its focal point. Designed by Wilson Architecture, the Elysian won the Irish Residential Property of the Year Award. Lush planting, water cascades and sculpture are the highlights of the internal gardens designed and built by the same team that built the multiple Gold Award winning Irish garden in the World Expo 90 in Japan. While the building contains hundreds of apartments, there is also some commercial activity here, mainly at the lower levels; included are a medical company and the El Vino's Restaurant. The tower is open to the public only occasionally, the most recent coming during the August Heritage Day.