When on holiday in Cork City, you will find that there are many activities to keep you entertained. If you encounter rain during your stay however, don’t let it dampen your spirits (excuse the pun!). The following is a list of our favourite activities which are ideal for a rainy day in Cork City:
1. The English Market:
In existence since 1788, The English Market is one tourist attraction that the people of Cork are particularly proud of. It has become a part of history by surviving events such as the 1986 Fire of Cork City. Most recently, The English Market was at the centre of the Queen of England’s visit to Ireland, a momentous occasion in itself. On a visit to the market you will find yourself surrounded by delights such as exotic fruits, traditional butchers and handmade chocolate stands, to name but a few.
www.corkenglishmarket.ie
2. Cork Butter Museum:
Cork Butter Museum, located in O’Connell Square, celebrates the hugely successful story of butter trade in Ireland. The gallery takes you from the origins of dairying in Ireland to the history of Cork and the Butter Exchange. Perhaps the most famous attraction is the keg of 1000 year-old butter on display in this museum.
www.corkbutter.museum
3. Cork Opera House:
Cork Opera House has been around since 1855, when it was originally called The Athenaeum and was designed to be a Fine Arts Hall. Today, Cork Opera House plays host to a huge variety of performances annually, from musicals, theatre and opera, to comedy, dance, festivals and films. It is located in Emmet Place, right in the heart of Cork City Centre.
www.corkoperahouse.ie
4. Curraheen Park Greyhound Track:
This glass-encased stadium houses a large restaurant, carvery, fast-food outlet and a bar which has live music after the races take place. An evening at the stadium is always a great night out, whether you choose to take a bet or not. Races take place on Thursday’s, Friday’s and Saturday’s, with a shuttle bus running from 10pm from the stadium to City Hall to make transport simple.
www.igb.ie
5. Mahon Point Shopping Centre:
This is the perfect shopping experience for a rainy day with top brands and designers from Debenhams to Tommy Hilfiger, all found under one roof. Mahon Point Shopping Centre is also known for its wide variety of dining opportunities which include something for all tastes such as Nando’s Restaurant, The Bagel Bar and McDonald’s. Or, if you feel like just relaxing, you can visit the Mahon Point Omniplex which boasts an impressive 13 cinema screens.
6. Fota Island Spa:
Why not spend a day being pampered in Fota Island Spa at Fota Island Resort? With a choice of 60 rejuvenating treatments and an array of 18 treatment rooms, you are sure to find the perfect option to restore your body and mind to a state of well-being and balance. Breathe in the pure air and surrender to the luxurious natural serenity of Fota Island Spa Cork, one of Europe’s finest Spas. The renowned facilities include Ireland’s first walking river, a hydrotherapy suite and the Acacia thermal suite.
www.fotaisland.ie
7. Midleton Distillery:
Home of Jameson Irish Whiskey, the distillery was founded by John Jameson in 1780. Take the Jameson Tour around the historic buildings, learn about the steps involved in whiskey production and finish the tour with a tasting session to earn a diploma as Whiskey Taster!
www.jamesonwhiskey.com
8. Cork City Gaol:
Opened in 1824, Cork City Gaol was made an all-women’s gaol in 1878. Today, wax figures help to create a sense of what life was like for inmates in the 19th Century. Tours are available in 13 languages and night tours are also available for those in the mood for a scare!
www.corkcitygaol.com
