Cork , Ireland

Cork Chat and History Walking Tour

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About this experience

Cork is a beautiful small city on the banks of the River Lee. The guide is a 'Registered National Tour Guide' and will show you all the highlights from St. Patrick's Street, affectionately known locally as 'Pana', where you will find a host of shops and see of Corkonians engaging in their favorite pastimes of meeting and chatting. We will see the famous English Market, Ireland's oldest food market. Other jewels in the crown of Cork city are St. Finbarr's Cathedral, St. Peter's Church, University College Cork, and the Hugenot Graveyard. Shandon Bells at St. Anne's church is a must-see where you can get the best views of the city and rings the bells to your own tune! Or just take wander through the historical lanes and imagine life in days gone by.

The tour can be devised for you to include all the things that interest you from food and entertainment, to history and architecture, or music and culture.

After this tour you will be an expert on all things Cork!

Available options

Cork Chat and History Walking Tour

What's included

A wealth of information on all things Cork related! We can deliver a tour specific to tour interests

Detailed itinerary

St. Patrick's Street, known to locals as 'Pana' is the main shopping boulevard. It has a fascinating history including the Burning of Cork which took place in 1920. Hear the whole story!

Stop 2

The oldest food market in Ireland, dating from 1788; this is still the best loved shopping experience in Cork. From cheeses to olives and even tripe and drisheen, the English Market is a world of wonder for foodies

Stop 3 Pass by

A magnificent cathedral deigned by architect William Burgess. It has a Gothic design similar to Notre Dame. See the famous angel who it is said will play her trumpet on the 'Last Day' to alert Corkonians to get into heaven!

The old Corn Market and Coal Quay of Cork. The Corn Market dates from the 1720s and is one of the oldest buildings in the city. It also has the city crest of Cork, 1st used in 1458 and still in every day use today.

A tribute to Rory Gallagher, one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Jimi Hendrix said he was the 'greatest guitarist in the world'!

See the vintage and second hand shops that abound in Cork for a great and unusual array of clothing, books and all sorts of everything.

When the city was first built it was fully walled. In Bishop Lucey Park you can see the remnants of the old city wall dating from the 12th Century.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Walking time is included in tour duration

Meeting point

Up the hill to Shandon and look for the 'Goldie Fish'.

About Cork

Cork is a vibrant city in southwestern Ireland known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Nestled between rolling hills and a stunning coastline, it offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

English Market

A historic covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's a great place to sample Cork's culinary delights.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary for purchases

Blarney Castle

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Historical 2-3 hours €20-€25

Cork City Gaol

A former prison that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of inmates and the history of Cork.

Historical 1-2 hours €8-€10

Fitzgerald Park

A beautiful public park with walking paths, a lake, and the Cork Public Museum. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free entry, donations welcome

Must-Try Local Dishes

Coddle

A hearty dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, often served with breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and blood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cork Sausage

A spiced sausage made with pork, often served with bread or in a sandwich.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns, served with crusty bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free upon request.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gougane Barra Forest Park Cycling around Fota Island Kayaking in Kinsale Harbour Picnicking in Fitzgerald Park Strolling through the English Market Enjoying a spa day at a local resort Visiting Cork City Gaol Exploring St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, longer days, and various festivals. Expect lively streets, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (IST: GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cork is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price beforehand

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Cork Kent Station

By bus

Cork Bus Station (Parnell Place)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Cork, with frequent services covering the city and suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Shandon The Lough Ballincollig

Day trips

Kinsale

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and historical sites.

Blarney Castle and Gardens

8 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Cobh

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A picturesque seaside town with a rich maritime history, known as the departure point for the Titanic.

Festivals

Cork Jazz Festival • October Cork International Choral Festival • May Cork Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the English Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience
Kiss the Blarney Stone early in the day to avoid long queues and enjoy the castle and gardens with fewer crowds
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Butter Museum and the Shandon Bells, for a unique and authentic experience
Try local specialties like coddle, black pudding, and brown bread ice cream for a taste of Cork's culinary delights
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene and friendly atmosphere