Situated on the shores of the second largest natural harbour in the world, the tourist town of Cobh is only 25 minutes by car or train from Cork City. The town is steeped in history and culture where every person, every pier and even the stunning architecture has a story to tell.
The Titanic’s last port of call before embarking on her fatal maiden voyage, Cobh is situated in the coastal playground that is Cork Harbour. Backed by rolling hills, it is a destination of choice for anyone who just loves to be by the sea. An abundance of tourist attractions and activities make Cobh the ideal spot for your next getaway; be it a day trip, overnight, weekend or longer break. There is plenty to see and do whatever your interests.
Part of the beauty about visiting Cobh is the fact that it is an all-weather destination. Ireland’s spring weather may be unpredictable but Cobh has a great choice of indoor attractions so that showers can’t dampen your spirits. Attractions such as Cobh Heritage Centre, Titanic Experience Cobh, Cobh Pastimes and Escapade Cobh along with Coral Leisure Centre allow for year round tourism in a dry and warm environment.
Nestled under the magnificent St. Colman’s Cathedral with its 49 bell carillon and stunning architecture, Cobh looks out onto Spike Island. Accessed via ferry from Cobh, Spike Island was voted Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction in the 2017 World Travel Awards. It has a long and compelling history with some great stories to be told during guided tours around the island, fort, prison and newly constructed visitor centre.
Just five minutes from Fota Island which contains Fota House & Gardens, Fota Wildlife Park and Fota Island Resort, Cobh and its surroundings will keep you busy all year round.
Cobh has three hotels all boasting uninterrupted sea views, plenty of homely B&Bs and even a waterfront campervan park, so there is plenty of accommodation to choose from to cater for all needs and party sizes. Be you a lone traveller, an exploring couple, a fun-loving family or an adventure seeking group there is accommodation and activities to suit your every need all year round.
A myriad of festivals and events complement the views, scenery, attractions and activities that Cobh has to offer each year. Cobh and Cork Harbour play host to the Sonia O’Sullivan Cobh 10 Mile Road Race in April and the Jailbreak Triathlon in August. Meanwhile, a record 103 cruise liners are booked to visit Cobh this year, including several which will dock in the port for the first time.
New ships such as Celebrity Cruises MV Celebrity Reflection and Ocean Cruises MV Scenic Eclipse, billed as a contender for the world’s most luxurious cruise ship, will make their maiden visit to the deep water quay in Cobh, along with Holland American Lines MS Nieuw Statendam. Meanwhile, Cobh People’s Regatta takes place on the weekend of August 23 – 25, offering a feast of both water activities and land-based entertainment.
The hills of Cobh may seem daunting but the houses of the “Deck of Cards” are worth seeking out for a unique photo opportunity. They are the most photographed feature of the town apart from the Cathedral and the prolific summer flower displays.
Cobh may be steeped in history but there are also fun and unusual things to do there. Get on the water in a self-drive boat from Cork Harbour Boat Hire, dress up like in the olden days and be photographed in Cobh Pastimes Photography studio or be put in prison, rob a bank or be a sleuth in the Escape Rooms, Escapade Cobh.
The ladies and gentlemen of the Cobh Animation Teams dress in Victorian costumes from the era of the Titanic and are delighted to pose for photographs with visitors. Their welcome is just one of the warm welcomes awaiting you in Cobh.
It truly is a great place to visit at any time of the year so start planning now!
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