10 Things to Do in The Cork City Walls, Cork, Ireland



The Cork City Walls are a series of fortifications that encircle the city of Cork in Ireland. Dating back to the 16th century, the walls are a reminder of the city’s rich history and provide a unique insight into the past. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of things to do in and around the Cork City Walls. Here are 10 of the best.

1. Take a Guided Tour

The best way to experience the Cork City Walls is to take a guided tour. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the walls, which will give you an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the walls and the city. You’ll learn about the various battles and sieges that took place here, as well as the many stories of the people who lived and worked in the area.

2. Explore the North Gate

The North Gate is one of the most impressive parts of the Cork City Walls. It was built in 1536 and is one of the few remaining gates that still stands today. The gate is a great place to explore and take in the history of the city. There is also a museum attached to the gate which houses artifacts from the city’s past.

3. Visit the South Gate

The South Gate is the second of the two remaining gates in the Cork City Walls. It was built in 1536 and is the oldest surviving gate in the city. Like the North Gate, the South Gate is a great place to explore and take in the history of the city.

4. Climb the Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is a popular attraction in the Cork City Walls. It was built in 1650 and is the only surviving clock tower in the city. Climb to the top of the tower and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

5. Visit the Red Abbey

The Red Abbey is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. It was built in 1229 and is a great place to explore and learn about the history of the city. The abbey is also home to a museum which houses artifacts from the city’s past.

6. Explore the Ramparts

The Ramparts are the defensive walls that surround the city. They were built in the 16th century and are a great place to explore and take in the history of the city. There are several walking paths along the walls that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

7. Visit the French Prison

The French Prison is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. It was built in 1690 and is a great place to explore and learn about the history of the city. The prison is also home to a museum which houses artifacts from the city’s past.

8. Take a Boat Tour

The Cork City Walls are best experienced from the water. There are several boat tour companies that offer boat tours of the city and the walls. This is a great way to get a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding countryside.

9. Visit the Old City Hall

The Old City Hall is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. It was built in 1720 and is a great place to explore and learn about the history of the city. The old city hall is also home to a museum which houses artifacts from the city’s past.

10. Enjoy the Views

The Cork City Walls offer some of the best views of the city and the surrounding countryside. There are several spots along the walls that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. So take some time to enjoy the views and soak in the history of the city.

The Cork City Walls are a great place to explore and take in the history of the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of things to do in and around the walls. So take some time to explore the walls and enjoy all that they have to offer.