Things to do in Kinsale Town Centre

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Megan Conner
Photo by Megan Conner
Photo by Michael Breen
Photo by Michael Breen
Photo by Adlin
Photo by Adlin
Photo by Adlin
Photo by Adlin
Photo by Henry McCrea
Photo by Henry McCrea
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Top places to visit

1. Blarney Castle

Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.
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Blarney Castle showing heritage architecture, château or palace and heritage elements

2. University College Cork

Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.
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Situated by the banks of the River Lee, University College Cork is a gorgeous, ornate gothic structure with a rich reputation for academic excellence.

3. English Market

Visit Cork’s English Market to encounter the infectious sights, sounds and smells of a centuries-old food market. Discover everything from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal ice cream, fresh seafood and locally produced cheeses. Try typical Cork fare while watching the bustling market activity from the comfort of a café or restaurant. The English Market dates back to 1788. Today its more than 50 traders form an integral part of Cork’s culinary scene.
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English Market showing food, markets and interior views

4. Blarney Stone

Embedded into the moss and lichen-speckled battlements of Blarney Castle, in the small village of the same name, kissing the Blarney Stone is no easy feat. This is particularly true for anyone with a fear of heights as kissing the stone involves leaning backwards over the castle walls to reach it with one’s lips. Nevertheless, this has not stopped countless individuals from doing so over the centuries, in their quest for the gift of the gab.
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While County Cork is not short on medieval history, you will only find one Blarney Stone. Located roughly five miles northwest of Cork, the stone is said to have mythical qualities. Legend has it that the Blarney Stone grants the gift of eloquence to anybody who kisses it.

5. Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park is an expansive rural setting where exotic animals roam and interact with one another. It focuses on conservation and improving the quality of life of the animals with vast spaces and unobtrusive barriers. Bring the kids to this picturesque island zoo to see giraffes, wild cats and primates.
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Fota Wildlife Park which includes land animals and zoo animals as well as a small group of people

What to do in Kinsale Town Centre

Popular places to visit

Charles Fort featuring tranquil scenes, heritage architecture and a bridge

Charles Fort

Now a national monument with exhibition center, this 17th-century military stronghold has witnessed some of Ireland's most significant events.

Charles Fort
James Fort

James Fort

You can find out about the history of Kinsale with a stop at James Fort. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its lively bars.

James Fort
Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance

Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance

Learn about the local history of Kinsale with a stop at Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance

Old Head Golf Links

Enjoy a round of golf in Kinsale at Old Head Golf Links. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Old Head Golf Links

The Kinsale Museum

You can study the exhibits at The Kinsale Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Kinsale Town Centre. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

The Kinsale Museum

Kinsale Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Kinsale at Kinsale Golf Club. Amble around this relaxing area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Kinsale Golf Club

Desmond Castle

Find out about the history of Kinsale Town Centre when you spend time at Desmond Castle. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Desmond Castle

Kinsale Rugby Club

Catch an event at Kinsale Rugby Club during your trip to Kinsale. Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront and enjoy its lively bars.

Kinsale Rugby Club

Old Head Signal Tower

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Old Head Signal Tower in Kinsale. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Old Head Signal Tower
Charles Fort which includes a bay or harbour, boating and a coastal town

Kinsale

Frequently asked questions

Is Kinsale Town Centre worth visiting?
Famous for its shopping and bars and pubs, finding awesome things to do in Kinsale Town Centre is easy. Be sure to add Kinsale Regional Museum and Courthouse to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Kinsale Town Centre?
Kick your day off with a visit to Kinsale Regional Museum and Courthouse and James Fort. Then, tour different parts of Kinsale Town Centre for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kinsale Town Centre?
You can't leave without visiting Kinsale Regional Museum and Courthouse, ranked the top tourist attraction in Kinsale Town Centre.
Is three days enough to stay in Kinsale Town Centre?
Three days in Kinsale Town Centre is enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Kinsale Regional Museum and Courthouse, Kinsale Golf Club and Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance are highly rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Cork.
What are some activities to do in Kinsale Town Centre with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Kinsale Town Centre with kids.

What to do in Kinsale Town Centre for adults?
Lusitania Memorial Garden is one of the main things to do in Kinsale Town Centre. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Kinsale Town Centre?
In Kinsale Town Centre, Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance is a popular spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Kinsale Town Centre.