Best Things to Do in Cork, Ireland with Kids

When most people think of Ireland, their minds drift to the lively streets of Dublin or the rugged beauty of the west coast and its Cliffs of Moher. But during my visit to the Emerald Isle, we decided to drive around the country, and in doing so we discovered a different gem: Cork! The second-largest city in Ireland, Cork rests on the River Lee and combines traditional Irish culture with urban sophistication.

Nestled near the southern coast, Cork and its namesake county offer a blend of history and adventure, a wealth of ancient castles and a seafaring past rich with tales, including two of the most ill-fated cruises that ever sailed. You don’t need a lot of time to uncover the magic of Cork — a three-day stay is ideal. Here’s how to spend an unforgettable 72 hours exploring the area.

Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Cork, Ireland

Day 1: Natural Wonders in County Cork

It will take up to three hours to drive to Cork from either Dublin or Galway, but the city does have a small airport if you aren’t interested in making the road trip — which is done on the opposite side of the road and the opposite side of the car.

After you arrive in Cork, start with a visit to Fota Wildlife Park on the outskirts of the city. The park’s open and naturalistic setting will get you close to the animals, and though wildlife parks aren’t unique to Ireland, the kids will have fun feeding friendly lemurs and watching the penguins waddle around their habitats. There are playgrounds scattered throughout the park to allow little ones to burn off some energy if you’ve had a long drive.

Following the wildlife tour, head for Blackrock Castle Observatory. This 16th-century castle, perched on the banks of the River Lee, now serves as a space observatory and science center. A perfect spot for curious young explorers, the observatory’s interactive exhibits will capture their imagination. Join a guided tour that includes a fascinating look at the castle’s history and its transformation into a modern-day observatory. Maybe your visit will inspire your kids to consider becoming astronauts!

If you’re visiting Ireland in the summer months, daylight stretches well into the night hours, with the sun setting after 10 pm. This gives you more time to enjoy the area’s fabulous offerings, such as the sheltered cove that houses Myrtleville Beach, where kids can build sandcastles as you take in a sunset.

TIP: One of the biggest events of summer is Live at the Marquee’s annual music festival. Typically held sometime between May and early July, the event brings a slate of live music acts along the banks of the river. Family-friendly entertainment, circus performances and comedy shows round out the fun.

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Treasures in Cobh

On your second day in Cork, visit the nearby town of Cobh (pronounced “cove”). Steeped in maritime history, Cobh is renowned for its colorful waterfront, its rich heritage and its role in Irish emigration.

Once known as Queenstown, Cobh served as a major departure point for millions of Irish emigrants seeking new lives across the Atlantic. It’s also connected to two of the most famous maritime tragedies of the 20th century, the Titanic and the Lusitania.

Make your way to the Titanic Experience, housed in the original White Star Line Ticket Office, where passengers boarded the Titanic for her maiden and final voyage. The interactive museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and relieve moments on the doomed ship. Upon entry, you’ll receive a replica boarding pass of an actual passenger who boarded the Titanic at Cobh and will follow his or her path on board. The tour ends in the Survival Gallery, where you’ll learn the fate of your assigned passenger.

Next, head to Casement Square to see the Lusitania Memorial. It stands as a poignant reminder of the sinking of the cruise liner after it was torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1915.

Conclude with a stop at the Cobh Heritage Centre, located in a beautifully restored Victorian railway station. The center offers a look at Ireland’s emigration history as well as more exhibits on the Titanic and the Lusitania. Adjacent to the heritage center is the Annie Moore Statue, commemorating Annie Moore and her two brothers, who on January 1, 1892, became the first immigrants to be processed at Ellis Island in New York.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Spots

On your final day in Cork, visit the iconic Blarney Castle and Gardens, home to the Blarney Stone. Tour buses crowd this spot throughout the summer and on weekends, but if you start your day early enough, you can beat the rush and have the place to yourselves. Climb the stairs of the castle and take turns leaning backward over the parapet to kiss the stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence.

The gardens are great for kids to run around and play. Enjoy the rock close with its ancient Druidic remains, waterfalls and hidden nooks, and swing through the Poison Garden, filled with dangerous and exotic plants that will enthrall the kids. Just outside the entrance of Blarney Castle lies an array of shops, including one of the biggest Irish wool retailers. If you’re looking to pick up knit sweaters for the fam, this is a great spot.

After touring Blarney, head into the city of Cork proper. Here you can visit the Cork City Gaol, a former prison that operated from 1824 to 1923. Now a museum, the imposing Gothic-style building sets a dramatic tone as you walk its dimly lit corridors and narrow staircases.

If you haven’t worn yourselves out, continue on to the Lifetime Lab at Old Cork Waterworks. This engaging science center on the banks of the river dates back to the 18th century and gives a unique glimpse into Cork’s industrial heritage. Visit the steam engine and pump house and take part in interactive exhibits that teach the kids the science of water, engineering and environmental conservation.

Where to Stay in County Cork: Castlemartyr Resort

About 25 minutes away from Cork’s center, stay at the 5-star Castlemartyr Resort, which is set on a sprawling 220 acres. We made this property our home base for our time in the county.

The Castlemartyr is on the ruins of Castlemartyr Castle, a 13th-century castle originally built by the Knights Templar. The ruins add a touch of historical intrigue, and when the kids go to bed, be sure to grab a late-night cocktail in the Knights Bar, which also serves a traditional afternoon tea.

The resort has a variety of accommodations perfect for families, including the Gate Houses. The three-bedroom “house” is one unit for families with a ground-floor double bedroom and two upstairs bedrooms, a kitchen and dining area for six, a living room and a private terrace. Residences with two and three bedrooms are also available, as well as junior suites with sitting rooms that can hold a family with up to two kids.

A true destination in and of itself, the Castlemartyr offers tennis courts, a swimming pool, bicycles, a spa and golf to enjoy. It’s easy to book for an entire week and enjoy a mix of onsite activities and nearby attractions. Kids will love the Leahy’s Open Farm, which is just minutes away and features lambs and other gentle animals to pet and feed. Plus, its ice cream and chocolate factory is reason enough to stop by, not to mention other family-friendly fun like a train ride, a fun house and an adventure trail.

No matter what you do and see in County Cork, request childcare assistance from the hotel if you can free yourself for an evening at the property’s Terre restaurant. It recently received two stars from Michelin, one of only five restaurants in Ireland to earn such a distinction.

TIP: Our Family Travel Advisor team can book accommodations for our clients, often with special perks and amenities to pass along. Reach out to start the process.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Ireland on Ciao Bambino

Favorite places to visit in Ireland with kids

10 things to do in Ireland off the beaten path

5 beautiful places to explore the untamed wilderness in Ireland with kids

72 hours in Dublin with kids

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.