Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Kinsale

"The Blackrock Castle Observatory may be old (the building dates back to 1582) but it’s always had an eye on the horizon. Originally, the watchtower was built to defend Cork from pirates, the Spanish, and even (in the case of one English Lord) Corkonians themselves. With walls thick enough to withstand cannon fire, it presented a formidable defense to marauders."

"Blackrock Castle Observatory is a 16th century castle located about 2km from the heart of Cork City on the banks of the river Lee. The present-day castle is actually the third structure to stand on this site. In 1582 the townspeople of Cork built a watchtower here to guard the harbour from pirates and"

"The Crawford Art Gallery is housed in Cork’s former Custom House – an imposing red-brick structure erected in 1724 and a welcome juxtaposition to the modern glass façade of Cork Opera House next door. The building has been augmented many times since, with the most recent extension in 2000 – designed by Dutch architect Erick van Egeraat – bringing an additional exhibition wing for modern art. The impressive permanent collection gives a visual insight into themes that trace the city’s biography, from the life of a ‘merchant prince’ in 18th-century Cork to famine and emigration."

"The Crawford Art Gallery, just beside the Opera House, houses a wide array of art, from classical paintings to video installations, presented in beautiful surroundings. Fresh visiting exhibits rotate frequently, and the permanent collection is anchored by a selection of Greek and Roman sculpture casts. The on-site café, surrounded by a selection of the gallery’s artworks, is an ideal spot for recharging with a light lunch or tea and cake on vintage china."

"Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, this Victorian, gothic-revival-style Church of Ireland cathedral on Cork’s Bishop Street was first consecrated in 1870, although construction didn’t completely come to an end until 1879. It stands on the site of a former monastery founded by Saint Finbarr in 606 and is said to be at least the third structure built in his name at the location, the first of which was damaged during the 1690 Siege of Cork. The striking cathedral was the first major work by the English architect William Burges, who is described by respected architectural historian J."

"The 19th century Fin Barre’s Cathedral is a fabulous example of Gothic Revival architecture and a must see for any visitor to Cork. Open every day except Sunday, the sculptures and carvings in the interior and exterior make it well worth the visit."

"You’ll find Fitzgerald Park a handy stroll from University College Cork. This is the perfect place for those of you looking to escape the city for a while. Those that head for a wander here can expect gorgeous, tree-lined avenues, finely-manicured flower beds, a number of statues and a large fountain."

"In our lovely County there is just so much to do and not everything has to cost money. We have put together the following list to show you Cork attractions without breaking the bank. There is just so many places to see in Cork with your family and for individuals."

"This stone circle is also known as ‘The Druid’s Altar’ and is a recumbent stone circle consisting of 17 (of which only 13 remain) closely spaced stones, situated near the village of Glandore. The circle is located on the edge of a rocky outcrop and has good views over the sea."

"On an exposed hillside, with fields falling away towards the coast and cattle lowing in the distance, the Drombeg stone circle is superbly atmospheric. Its 17 stones, oriented towards the winter solstice sunset,..."

"Last but not least we have Tir na Si farm which is open for families on Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 2pm and on Saturdays for birthday parties and booked events. You can follow the nature trail, meet the friendly farm animals, visit the vegetable garden or find the fairies, there really is so much to see and do. You can also take a spin on the Farm Express Train or maybe a trip on the horse and cart followed by a game of mini golf."

"Fernhill House and Gardens - The gardens at Fernhill are the perfect place to relax and unwind. There are many quiet corners for you to enjoy a book, chat or reflect on the beauty of the gardens. There are many stunning features including a heart shaped flower bed, rose walk, geyser and many more."

"Fernhill House is a beautiful family run country house set on acres of gorgeous gardens in wonderful West Cork. Address: Clonakilty, West Cork"

"A spot that I visited this past July for the first time, it left an impression on me so much so that I can’t wait to get back there. The sun was beating down and the seats near the road are the perfect spot to gaze over the glistening water. Cars and people battle here for priority as space is at a premium, but it adds to the buzz of this brilliant seaside establishment."

"Picture-postcard views over the harbour, especially from the outdoor tables, and a superlative menu make this one of West Cork's best pubs for eating out. Fresh seafood is sourced from Union Hall harbour (clearly..."

"Christopher E O'Leary has produced something special in the back room of Coughlans. While the open mics are taking a summer break, the first Tuesday of every month typically sees no fewer than a dozen comics sign up for the chance to spout new material in one of the most intimate venues in Ireland. For the rest of the month, you'll have booked headliners and themed shows such as Best of Irish or Pure Cork but Chris very kindly intends to stage Edinburgh previews for established comics between now and August."

"A pub that opened almost two centuries ago, Coughlan’s is one of several award-winning bars in Cork City. Having been in the same family since it opened, it’s one of the city’s longest running pubs. It offers an intimate night out with a variety of live music each night, from rising stars to household names."

"Michael Collins House Michael Collins House, Clonakilty is a new museum dedicated to Michael Collins. Offering an insight into the life of ‘The Big Fella’ and bringing the history of Irish…"

"The Michael Collins Centre, located at Castleview, Clonakilty, West Cork displays an audio/ visual of Michael Collins (the Big Fella’s) childhood, his family history, his school days and the important Collins’ sites around Clonakilty. A guide then continues the presentation, using slides, large photographs or film clips, the visitor is taken through the 1916 rebellion, War of Independence, Treaty talks and the Civil War. The tragic death of Michael Collins at Beal Na Blath and his Legacy are also discussed."

"This Heritage Centre contains photographs and a military exhibition in a cottage theatre. Outside the centre, an ambush trail is laid out, a one hundred meter section of road designed to look like a War of Independence/Civil War ambush site. For the visitor who wants to stand on the spot where history was made, they also offer the Michael Collins Tour, visiting all the important sites in the area."