The city of Cork has been around for over 800 years. In the 7th century, it was founded by Vikings who came from Denmark and Norway. The name Cork comes from earcach, which means a marshy place. The people in this region have long been involved with fishing and trading, as well as other industries such as brewing, distilling, and baking. Today, there are many things to do in the city of Cork!

Things to See in Cork

Cork’s English Market

The English Market is a great place to see in Cork. This historic building has been around since 1788, and inside you can find fresh produce from local farmers as well as baked goods, meat, seafood, cheese, coffee shops, restaurants and more!

St Anne’s Shandon Church

St. Anne’s Shandon Church was built between 1822 and 1828. It looks like an ancient Greek temple with tall columns on either side of the main entrance that lead into the church itself. Because it was designed by a man named William Wilkinson who had never visited Greece or Rome before designing this church (he based his design off drawings he found), many people called its architecture gothic revival instead of neoclassical; however some parts do look classical such as the statues on the columns. The church itself is known for its unusual acoustics, which makes it very easy to hear if you speak softly near one of the columns.

Blarney Castle

The Blarney Castle is located about 15 miles outside of Cork city. This castle has many beautiful green hills around it, as well as the world-famous Blarney Stone inside! If you are brave enough to kiss the stone (which can be hard to reach), then you will receive the gift of gab or eloquence.

Cork Butter Museum

Cork Butter Museum was built in 1976 and focuses on Irish butter through history. There are three floors that tell visitors all about different types of butter, including Kerrygold which originated from this region! Visitors here learn how cows were kept for centuries before modern farming methods changed everything, and they also get a chance to make their own batch by using giant mixers found throughout the museum.

Ballymaloe House

The Ballymaloe House is located in Shanagarry, which is about 30 minutes outside of Cork city. This historic house was built around 1725 and has been home to many famous Irish people including the Allen family who were chefs before they opened up their own restaurant called Ballymaloe. Visitors can take cooking classes here or just eat at one of the two well-known restaurants that are on site.

Countryside Around Cork

Cork’s surrounding countryside is just as beautiful and historic as its towns. The main road that runs through Cork, called the N20, will take visitors to many castles in County Cork such as Blarney Castle or Monckton Castle! Not far from these locations are places like Mizen Head which is a peninsula with cliffs and beaches on both sides of it; this location also has an amazing view of all of south-west Ireland.