Seven Night Stay in a 17th-Century Fortress

Welcome to Elizabeth Fort, a historic 17th-century fortress in the heart of Cork City, lovingly maintained by Irish Landmark Trust. This unique property serves as an ideal base for exploring the vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and culinary delights of Cork. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Elizabeth Fort invites you to experience its rich history and charm.

The History of Elizabeth Fort 

Built in the early 17th century after the Battle of Kinsale in 1601, Elizabeth Fort was constructed under Sir George Carew and named for Queen Elizabeth I. Originally a star-shaped defensive structure, it evolved with the city, serving as a military barracks, prison, and Garda station. This iconic landmark reflects Cork’s historical significance and remains a testament to its storied past.

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

Upon your arrival in Cork, you’ll find that this vibrant city is compact and easy to navigate. We recommend starting with what’s right on your doorstep. The Houses are located within the walls of Elizabeth Fort where you can take a guided tour to immerse yourself in its rich history.

Behind the Fort, enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of St. Finbar’s Cathedral dedicated to St. Fin Barre, the patron saint of Cork who founded a monastery in the 7th century. 

Elizabeth Fort is situated on Barrack Street, one of Cork’s oldest streets, which is bustling with lovely cafes, pubs, and event spaces revitalising this historic area. We recommend trying Alchemy Coffee for a great brew or visiting Tom Barry’s Pub, a famous spot with a charming outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a freshly baked pizza with your pint. 

Other local favourites include Mr. Bradley’s Pub and La Tana Pizza

Just outside the Fort, you’ll find Old Bear which, although it has a fresh look and a new name, is actually Cork’s oldest pub! Located right at the gates of your holiday accommodation, this spot is as local as it gets. Their barbecue menu has options for meat-lovers and vegetarians alike, and the atmosphere has already made it one of Cork’s favourite spots for nightlife.

Don’t miss Twomey’s local shop on Barrack Street, where Breda Twomey, a Cork legend born and raised in the shop, is always delighted to share stories about the local area with Elizabeth Fort guests!

Day 2: Markets and Food Tour

While staying in Cork city, you could fill multiple days with amazing food! Explore the English Market brimming with delicious food stalls, making it an ideal spot to sample lots of lunch options. The Farmgate is highly recommended. As Cork is renowned for its culinary scene, a food tour is a perfect way to experience authentic Irish flavours. Fab Food Trails offer a leisurely 3-hour tour led by engaging and knowledgeable guides who will take you to hidden gems off the beaten path, where generous tastings and entertaining stories await. Tours start at €75, book yours here.

Day 3: Day Trip to Kinsale

Embark on a day trip to the historic town of Kinsale, often referred to as the gourmet capital of Ireland. Stroll through its colourful streets, lined with galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Be sure to visit Charles Fort (pictured), another 17th-century star-shaped fort that offers panoramic views of the harbour.

For lunch, indulge in a delicious seafood feast at one of the fantastic local restaurants. A highly recommended spot is Fishy Fishy Restaurant, known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. 

Alternatively, consider joining a Kinsale Food Tour, led by founder Suzanne Burns. She will share stories and introduce you to local vendors as you sample everything from seafood to sweet treats. You can choose from various options, including a walking tour, a picnic and foraging tour, or the luxurious private yacht picnic charter, where you can enjoy a gourmet picnic while cruising Kinsale Harbour with Sovereign Sailing.

If you’re looking for fine dining, don’t miss Bastion, Kinsale’s Michelin-starred restaurant.

Kinsale offers a wealth of activities beyond its culinary delights, including golf, harbour cruises, surfing, and art gallery explorations. For a full list of activities, visit Discover Ireland – Kinsale.

House Manager’s Tip: Just 5 minutes from the town is Dock Beach, a sheltered cove overlooked by James Fort, which provides beautiful views of Kinsale Harbour.

Day 4: Day Trip to Cobh 

Explore the charming seaside town of Cobh (pronounced ‘cove’), just a quick 25-minute train ride from Cork. No need to pre-book—simply hop on a commuter train from Cork Kent station and you’re on your way to this picturesque gem. With its vibrant buildings and rich maritime history, Cobh invites you to wander its quaint streets, soaking in the stunning harbour views from St. Colman’s Cathedral, and dive into the fascinating stories at the Cobh Heritage Centre, including the Titanic’s legacy. When hunger strikes, cosy up in one of Cobh’s delightful eateries for a memorable meal.

Day 5: Fota House & Arboretum and Wildlife Park  

The arboretum and gardens on Fota Island, just a 25-minute drive away, are a must-visit destination for horticulture enthusiasts. Spanning over 11 hectares, the arboretum boasts one of the finest collections of rare and tender trees and shrubs grown outdoors in Europe. The unique conditions on Fota—characterised by warm soil and a sheltered location—allow many exquisite examples of exotic plants from the Southern Hemisphere to thrive. In addition to the arboretum and gardens, the island is home to a hotel, a golf resort, and a wildlife park, making it a perfect spot for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Day 6: Galleries, Museums and UCC

Why not take a day  especially if it’s a rainy one   to explore Cork’s fantastic cultural and historical institutions?

Cork was once the world’s largest exporter of butter, but did you know there’s a Butter Museum? This quirky institution, located right next to the famous Shandon Bells (see Day 7 below) explores Ireland’s long-standing obsession with dairy from mediaeval times to the present day. The New York Times described it as a “surprisingly engaging and multi-faceted view of history.” 

Take a stroll through the beautiful campus of University College Cork, and stop by another must-visit: the Glucksman. Hailed by Lonely Planet as “a startling construction of limestone, steel, and timber”, it features three floors of galleries showcasing both national and international contemporary art and installations. Whilst there, you can explore other important buildings on UCC’s campus by booking one of their wide range of tours. Visit and learn about Crawford Observatory, designed by Howard Grubb, one of the foremost scientific instrument makers of the nineteenth century.

Art lovers may have heard of the Crawford Art Gallery, a National Cultural Institution dedicated to visual arts, encompassing both historic and contemporary works. However visitors should note that the Gallery is temporarily closed as of September 2024, for an extensive redevelopment as part of Project Ireland 2040. During this period, much of the gallery’s collection will be temporarily housed off-site, with select works loaned to cultural institutions across Ireland. These include Doneraile Court and Cork Public Museum, along with Hillsborough Castle in Co. Down, and The Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin.

The project will expand exhibition space by 50%, introduce a new learning facility, improve accessibility, and add a new café and public gallery on the top floor for panoramic views of Cork. 

It is projected to reopen in 2027. For updates, follow the Crawford Art Gallery’s progress on their website here.

However you can still enjoy Irish art, craft and design by visiting the Lavit Gallery to see their changing exhibitions on Wandesford Quay. It was established by a group of artists in 1963 and dedicated to promoting an appreciation of art in Cork City.

University College Cork quad

Day 7: Park Visit

Visit Fitzgerald’s Park, a 20-minute stroll from Elizabeth Fort. This Victorian-style park has a great playground and is ideal for a picnic or lunch in the cafe. You can access the park from Cork’s famous “Shaky Bridge”. Walk back towards the city along Sunday’s Well. You might want to stop off at the historic, castellated Old Cork City Gaol for a tour, or continue straight on to the Shandon Bells in the tower at St Anne’s Church, an iconic part of the city’s skyline since 1722. You can climb the tower to play pop songs on the bells and go higher for great views over the city. 

Day 8: Yoga and Kayaking 

In the Summer months, the Himalaya Yoga Valley Centre runs morning outdoor Yoga sessions in Fitzgerald’s Park (check their website for details).  After your stretch, refuel with a coffee and a bun. 

Finish your day with something really special, a uniquely Cork experience, an evening’s Urban Kayaking under the bridges and down the river to Blackrock Castle. 

House Manager Tips

If you’re in Cork, the Cork Tourist Information Centre is an excellent resource for advice and up-to-date information on local attractions and activities.

For a taste of local pub culture, visit Fionn Barra’s on Douglas Street, which features a fantastic living room-style beer garden—perfect for enjoying a pint of Murphy’s or Beamish while chatting with interesting characters. Another great option is Callanan’s Bar on George’s Quay, just a 5-minute walk from the Fort. This traditional pub attracts a mix of both young and older clientele.

Consider exploring the Nano Nagle Heritage Centre on Douglas Street, a 5-7 minute walk from the Fort. Here, you’ll find The Good Day Deli café nestled in beautiful gardens, offering delicious breakfasts, brunch, and lunch. 

Also nearby is The Quay Co-op on Sullivans Quay, just a 5-minute walk from the Fort. This vegetarian café and restaurant, located in a Georgian building, provides stunning views of the city over the river. Don’t miss their shop on the street level, which stocks a variety of vegetarian cuisine and products.

For more ideas on what to do in Cork, visit Pure Cork, the official tourism website for Cork, Ireland. 

Cork is a fantastic destination at any time of the year. If you’re interested in attending events during your visit, check out the What’s On section on Pure Cork for the latest happenings.

Where to eat?  

Cork is a foodie haven with an abundance of great places to dine. Here are some of our top recommendations:

The Glass Curtain – Known for its great seasonal menus featuring food supplied by local producers.

Da Mirco – A fantastic spot for delicious Italian cuisine.

Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine – A popular Japanese bistro offering a unique dining experience.

L’Atitude 51 – Renowned as the city’s best spot for wine, boards, and tapas.

The Good Day Deli at the Nano Nagle Centre – A must-visit for a delicious breakfast or lunch. This veggie-focused café has been described by The Times as a place that “feels like you should have turned up for brunch with your yoga mat.”

Paradiso – An excellent vegetarian restaurant that showcases innovative plant-based dishes.

 

When to Visit?

Cork is great at any time of the year.  When planning your stay, keep in mind that holidays with Irish Landmark Trust become more affordable the longer you stay. With so much to see and do in the city and surrounding areas, consider booking a few extra nights to fully enjoy your visit to Elizabeth Fort.

How to Book

Please note that these suggestions are intended to assist you in planning your trip and are based on information available as of Summer 2024. Always check individual websites for the most up-to-date opening times and booking details before finalising your itinerary.

Featured Property

Salterbridge Gatelodge

Salterbridge Gatelodge, located in the glorious Blackwater valley, dates from the mid 19th Century.

View Property

Sign up to our
mailing list

Get the latest news, exclusive deals, and more from Irish Landmark.

Name(Required)
Enter your name
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY : 

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.     

BOOKING:  

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you. 

CONTRACT OF HIRE:  

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking. 

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.   

V.A.T.:  

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable. 

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:   

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival.  Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email.  The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment.   A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.  

PAYMENT TYPES: 

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).    

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds. 

VOUCHERS:  

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking.  Vouchers have a strict expiry date. 

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:    

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation.  All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification.  Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.   

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):    

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation 

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation.  If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:  

Date of Cancellation 

Cancellation Charge 

More than 12 weeks before start date 

The deposit of 30% 

84 – 28 days before start date 

50% of total rental 

Fewer than 28 days 

100% of total rental 

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.    

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION:  In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight.   Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21.  Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.   

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:  

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date.  It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.  

DAY VISITORS:  

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc.   Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors. 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents. 

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:   

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog.  ALWAYS check this before you book.  Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties.  Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property.  The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.   

ELECTRIC VEHICLES: 

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.  

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:   

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment.  We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer.   All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand.   If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property. 

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:   

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark. 

GENERAL:   

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing. 

RIGHT OF ENTRY:   

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible.   There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits. 

COMPLAINTS:  

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager.  If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.   

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost.  If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer.  Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES 

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog.  There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere: 

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking.  A charge will apply.  

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property.  If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply. 

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep.  Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog. 

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control.  Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture.  There is no exception to this rule.  

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings.  A vacuum cleaner is available to you.   

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.   

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable.  Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.  

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property.  We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out.  Please be mindful of any livestock nearby. 

 

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees: 

 

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions. 

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms. 

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage. 

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same. 

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations 

 

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.   

 

Availability Calendar

Check availability for all of our properties at a glance here.

Republic of Ireland
Loading…
Northern Ireland
Loading...

Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December.