Catching a Bus to Cork, Ireland
- Kaitlen Elaine
- Dec 29, 2023
- 8 min read
Cork, Ireland is a place of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled on the banks of the River Lee, this city offers an unforgettable travel experience for everyone. From its charming streets lined with colourful Georgian houses to its stunning coastal scenery, Cork is a destination that will captivate your heart and ignite your sense of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore ancient castles or a culinary enthusiast in search of new cuisine, Cork has something for everyone.
If you've come from my previous blog, you'll know that I've travelled to Cork from my previous stay in Waterford, Ireland. Luckily, the journey is rather easy and affordable. From my experience, the best way to get from Waterford to Cork is by bus which takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes, costing around €13 to €21. Alternatively, you can also travel by train, which costs €18 to €27 and takes nearly 3 hours 12 minutes. Travelling by train may be a good option if you aren't in a rush and want to enjoy Ireland's lush scenery—and if you don't mind spending a little more!
Cork is the second largest city in Ireland—and also the third largest city by population—so, there are a ton of things to do and see. One of the first things that will draw you into the allure of Cork is its rich history, at least that's what happened to me! As you wander through the city’s narrow lanes and cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter magnificent historic buildings that tell tales of times long past. The iconic St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral stands tall, showcasing stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. It is located on the south bank of the River Lee and is dedicated to Finbarr of Cork, patron saint of the city. It's most famous feature is "The Goldie Angel," which can be seen in the side image, who will sound her trumpets when it's the end of the world, making Cork the first place to know when Armageddon happens... but hopefully not!
In addition to the cathedral, you can also step back in time at the 14th-century Augustinian Red Abbey Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city from its rooftop. This is Cork's oldest surviving structure and is the only standing remains of Cork's medieval past. The Red Abbey has had a long and diverse past, as it has been occupied by a variety of different people and for many different reasons. Until the later half of the 17th century, the Red Abbey was home to the monks. After the monks were relocated, cannons were located in the gardens of the Abbey in order to shell the city during the siege of the city in 1690. In the 18th century, parts of the Abbey’s buildings were used as a sugar refinery. Unfortunately, a fire in 1799 destroyed much of the abbey and the remaining tower is what stands today!
St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral and the Red Abbey Tower are two historical sites that I highly recommend if you find yourself planning a trip to Cork, Ireland. These architectural marvels hold significant cultural and religious importance, making them must-visit destinations for travelers. If you're interested in more in-depth information on the history of these two sites, as well as additional historical sites located in Cork, click here for Kieran McCarthy's historical Cork walking trail. It covers fascinating markers of the city’s development and diverse architectural styles through the ages.
I have been so incredibly excited to revisit Cork for quite some time, as it has been a few years since I've last been. As Cork is Ireland's largest (and arguably most scenic) counties, it's hard to do everything in only one short visit. When I stay in Cork, I thoroughly enjoy staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, which is located perfectly within reach of anything in and around Cork. This hotel is close to both the town center and the airport, making it great for anyone wanting to explore the city and beyond—like me. My favorite thing about this hotel is the included Retreat Spa, which includes a sauna, steam room, and hydrotherapy pool. I don't typically spend much time at my hotels, but sometimes I do enjoy relaxing during my travels. It's always nice to go sightseeing during the days, knowing that you can come back to the hotel and relax in the included amenities.
During this visit, my main priority was to visit Blarney Castle and Gardens in Blarney Village, which is around 8 km northwest from Cork. The best way to get from Cork to Blarney Village without a car is by bus, which typically takes around 30 minutes and costs around €6 - €9. To catch the bus from Cork city center, make your way to St. Patrick’s Street or Grand Parade. Look for bus stops with services heading towards Blarney Village or Tower. You should be taking Bus Route 215 or 215A (departing every 20 minutes), which is operated by Bus Éireann. Once you hop on the bus, inform the bus driver that you wish to alight at Blarney Village. Once in Blarney Village, follow the signs to Blarney Castle. Bus schedules may vary, so it is advisable to check the latest timetables before planning your trip. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or online!
The famous Blarney Castle is sometimes seen as a "tourist trap;" however, I don't completely think that's the case for everyone. Blarney Castle is a renowned historical landmark that has captured the hearts and imaginations of countless visitors from around the world. Steeped in myth and legend, this enchanting castle is most famous for its Blarney Stone, which is a magical stone said to bestow the gift of eloquence upon those who kiss it. If you're travelling to the castle for purely that experience, you may be slightly disappointed. Although, if you're travelling to also admire the historical site's flourishing gardens and history, then this is definitely a place to at least visit once.
Blarney Castle dates back to the 10th century, although the current structure was built in the 15th century by the MacCarthy dynasty. The castle has witnessed numerous battles and sieges throughout its history, making it an important stronghold in Ireland. The castle is also a marvel of medieval architecture, boasting a mix of architectural styles including Gothic, Renaissance, and Victorian. When I was exploring the castle, I noticed the intricate carvings and fine details that were all around its walls, ceilings, and windows. For those with a taste for adventure, exploring the castle’s dungeon can be intriguing as well. Descending into the depths of Blarney Castle reveals dark passageways and chambers that were once used as prisons. It provides a glimpse into the castle’s turbulent past and adds an element of mystery to the visit.
The Blarney Stone is undoubtedly the most popular feature of the castle. The Blarney Stone, believed to have been brought to Ireland by Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, in the 13th century, has long been the star attraction of Blarney Castle. According to legend, the stone was given to Cormac by the biblical prophet Jeremiah, who received it from Moses on Mount Sinai. As stated previously, the stone is said to possess mystical powers, with anyone who kisses it gaining the gift of eloquence and skill in persuasion. Visitors must climb to the top of the castle to reach the stone. To kiss the Blarney Stone, you must lean backward over a hole in the castle’s battlements—with the help of a “kissing attendant.” While it may seem daunting, there are safety measures in place to ensure a secure experience.
In addition to the Stone, the castle is surrounded by stunning gardens that cover over 60 acres of land. The gardens are meticulously maintained and offer various sections to explore, including formal gardens, water features, a rock close, and woodland walking and hiking areas. For me, one of my favorite things to do when I travel to new places is to visit the botanical gardens in the area, so this made the visit to Blarney Castle even better! The gardens offer an enjoyable and peaceful walk amidst colorful flowers, ancient trees, and charming pathways—it was like stepping back into time.
The castle grounds also offer a vast array of activities and attractions, such as the Poison Garden, which houses a collection of toxic and poisonous plants, and the stunning Blarney House, a testament to the opulence of the past. When exploring the gardens, you will have the chance to stroll through the picturesque Rock Close, a mystical woodland area filled with ancient trees and ferns. Steeped in folklore and natural beauty, here you can find ancient stone structures such as Druid’s Circle, Witch’s Kitchen, Fairy Glade, and Wishing Steps. These enchanting features add an element of magic to the overall experience.
Regardless upon it being very "touristy," I do believe that visiting Blarney Castle is a great addition to your trip to Cork, Ireland! The experience all together combines history, folklore, and Ireland's natural beauty. From kissing the famous Blarney Stone to exploring the enchanting gardens and mystical Rock Close, there is much to discover within the castle grounds. With proper planning and an open mind, a visit to Blarney Castle can create lasting memories and leave you captivated by its rich heritage.
For anyone interested in visiting Blarney Castle as well, I recommend trying to avoid large crowds and visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This allows for a more relaxed experience, less of a wait if you're wanting to touch or kiss the Blarney Stone and better opportunities for photographs.
Alongside Cork and the surround area's intriguing history, the city of Cork is also known for having a thriving food scene. Cork’s food culture is deeply rooted in its European influences. The city boasts a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and food markets that offer a unique blend of traditional and contemporary cuisine. Visitors can expect to savor local Irish delicacies such as smoked salmon, Irish stew, and soda bread, while also indulging in continental favorites like pasta, tapas, and gourmet burgers. Some of Cork's most famous dishes include seafood chowder, black pudding, Irish stew, and drisheen, which is Irish blood sausage.
Cork’s food markets are a testament to the city’s love for food. I recommend visiting the English Market, which is one of the oldest covered markets in Europe and a must-visit destination for food travellers. I can't say that I personally travel to places purely for their food scene, but I was actually very impressed with what Cork has to offer! This bustling market offers a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal products, and specialty foods, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to sample local delicacies and chat with local vendors. In addition to the English Market, Cork’s lively festivals play a significant role in promoting its food culture as well. Events like the Cork International Film Festival, the Cork Jazz Festival, and the Cork French Film Festival showcase the city’s diverse food scene, with numerous pop-up restaurants and food stalls setting up shop to cater to the needs of festival-goers.
Ireland is known for its warm hospitality, and Cork is no exception. Whether you’re exploring the city’s attractions or venturing into the countryside, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and genuine Irish hospitality. Moreover, Cork serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning southwest region of Ireland. From here, you can easily embark on day trips to destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and the Dingle Peninsula. Cork is also well-connected to other major cities in Ireland, making it convenient for travellers to explore more of Ireland.
Whatever you enjoy doing on your own travels, I recommend adding Cork as a pit-stop on your Irish itinerary. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, food enthusiast, or simply seeking an authentic Irish experience, Cork has something for everyone.
After my last night at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cork, I decided that the next stop on my trip around the United Kingdom and Ireland would be to visit the Cliffs of Moher, located in County Clare, Ireland. I haven't had a chance to visit the Cliffs of Moher in the past, so I am very excited to document my experience in my next blog post! Stay tuned. ☺
Nicely done! I have always wanted to visit the Blarney Castle, and this made me evwn more determined to visit Ireland.