Lucky for us we have the good fortune of spending quality time in Cork City. We are well aware however that many visitors only have a couple of days to discover Ireland, so may only have a day to explore the Rebel County (as we know!… it’s a long story). We decided to take a look at our lovely ‘City by the Lee’ and gave one of our team just 24 hours to explore Cork City.
09:00 Starting with the most important meal of the day, breakfast. Idaho Café (19 Caroline Street) was the 2013 recipient of ‘Best Cafe in Ireland’ and serves everything from fresh scones and pastries to the full Irish breakfast with gourmet coffee and tea, all made with quality local produce and Irish ingredients.
10:00 The English Market (city centre, ask anyone for directions) is the most famous food market in Ireland and was even visited by the Queen of England when she visited Cork in 2011. It has been serving the people of Cork City since 1788 and offers a great mix of traditional Cork fare and exciting new foods from afar, it is a must see for anyone visiting Cork. 
10:30 Head for one of the most historic parts of the city – Shandon Street, just a leisurely 15 minute walk away, to enjoy the unique experience of ringing the 18th century Shandon Bells. This is the most iconic symbol of Cork City and while there you can see the internal workings of the clock also known as the ‘Four Faced Liar’. In addition to The Cork Butter Museum which is next door, there is the even more famous (well to Cork people anyway) Linehans traditional sweetshop where they have been making their own sweets for generations.
12:30 Lunch at Scoozi, (Winthrop Street, City Centre). Scoozi’s has a superb Italian atmosphere and a great selection of foods, they serve a selection of burgers, pasta dishes, vegetarian options plus lots more and the service is always great. Besides, the Mars Bar cheesecake is out of this world!
14:00 – 17:00 Time to take it easy after lunch and enjoy a stroll along the University College Cork campus (also home to the internationally renowned Glucksman Gallery) and Fitzgerald Park, which is also home to the Cork Public Museum. This park was laid out in the late 19th century and offers natural beauty in an urban setting. If you are lucky, on the walk back to the city centre you might catch a game of cricket at the grounds of the Cork County Crickey Club who have been playing here since 1874.
17:30 After all that walking a culture, it might be time for some early evening refreshments. Electric bar and restaurant located on the South Mall is the perfect location for a pre-dinner drink. Right alongside the River Lee it is a fantastic city centre venue on a sunny day. They also serve great platters for snacks and have a great bar menu with lots of craft beers and cocktails.
19:00 – 20:30 Time for Dinner at Fenns Quay. Making you feel right at home right around the corner from the court house, Fenns Quay is a cosy restaurant that will give you the finest of food served to you by the friendliest staff. Fresh locally supplied ingredients and great attention to detail from head chef Kate Lawlor make for the perfect meal in one of the best restaurants in Cork City 
20:30 – 00:00 To complete the day in Cork why not explore some of the best Cork City pubs. There are so many venues from which to choose right across the city with a great variation of pub types to suit each and every taste. Soho has a great cocktail bar on level one and has the perfect party vibe for a night on the tiles. The Sextant near the city’s docks has a slightly more relaxed feel but it is a rocking pub and ‘pig on a spit’ Friday food nights a regular spot for the locals. Sin É is home to traditional music all year ’round and has a great welcome for newcomers and visitors alike. The Long Valley has been in the city centre since 1842, serving pints with Victorian flair and a very laid back atmosphere. Two great sites to visit when planning your night out are Cork Heritage Pubs and if you like traditional music The Lee Sessions.
We hope you enjoyed your time with us.
No comments yet.