Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places 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."

"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."

"Good review: "Friendly staff, friendly crowd with a good atmosphere, music is usually good, leaning slightly away from the generic club hits towards rock and other genres.". Bad review: "Used to have more charm when you'd go in with a pair of white runners and you'd come out with em black. Grand for a late night tipple."

"The second most famous pub is An Bróg which is located at 74 Oliver Plunkett Street. This pub is in the city centre. It offers a lot of different kinds of drink every night but the best part is that it opens 7 days-a-week and there are pints from €3.50."

"A favourite among diverse groups of Corkonians, An Bróg is a bar that stays open late seven days a week and hosts live music sessions."

"If you’re wondering what to do in Cork City that’ll take you away from the hustle and bustle, make your way to Tramore Valley Park. It’s located in Cork City, but it’s off-the-beaten-path enough to make you feel like you’ve ventured out to the countryside. There are a few different walks that you can head off on here, and fairly handy."

"Managed by The Glen Resource and Sports Centre on behalf of Cork City Council, the Tramore Valley Park boasts many activities for all the family"

"Home to Cork’s only BMX Track, Tramore Valley Park is a hive of activity with walking routes, outdoor gym, viewing point and rugby pitch."

"Cafe Gusto is another spot that’s said to dish out some of the best brunch Cork has to offer. It was established in 1999 and was once the famous O’Brien coffee shop that operated since 1941. The creative force behind the cafe, Marianne, had travelled extensively around the world before returning to Cork in1998."

"These guys KNOW what they’re talking about when it comes to coffee. As specialty small-batch coffee roasters and with more than 20 years in the caffeine game,Cork Coffee Roasters branched out into the cafe business in 2008 and added a second location in 2015. Which means actually now we have 11, not 10 cafes on our Top Ten list…."

"The city’s original coffee specialists serving up their beautifully home roasted Rebel Blend. This roast is on the dark side of medium and is extremely popular with Corkonians looking for a much needed caffeine hit to get them through the day."

"The Cork Coffee Roaster is located on French Church street, a very lively street in Cork City. You can have your coffee inside the shop, outside on little tables or even take it away. The inside is quite small, and it is a very busy place."

"Since their establishment in 2012, The Rocket Man have made it their aim to bring fresh, healthy, and convenient food to the people of Cork through farmers markets and their shop headquarters. All their ingredients are top quality and staff are friendly, helpful and eager to chat about their dishes and ingredients. The Rocket Man has a selection of soups, sandwiches, and salads but their hearty stews are the standout."