One of the most important holidays in Ireland apart from St. Patrick’s day is Easter. As a celebration of new life in all its forms, many choose this time to travel for new adventures or to be closer to family, both of which are great opportunities to get outdoors and partake in some fun activities. With Cork City being selected as the European Capital of culture, you can be sure this city is full of fun for the Easter holidays. Here are our top 6 reasons to take an Easter break in Cork.
Egg Hunt in Cork City Gaol
Our top pick is the easter egg hunt in one of Cork city’s most prominent and historic landmarks, the Gaol. Although once a home to 19th century prisoners, this magnificent castle is now a major visitor attraction. Can you think of a better place to hunt for eggs than throughout this historical and beautiful Gaol, and in its accompanying courtyards and fields?
The event takes place 2017 Monday 17th April from 9.30 until 17.00, Regular admission prices apply.Â
Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens
Why not celebrate Easter amongst the flowers, plants and gardens that are in full bloom during this Spring season? Fota House is not only a regency style great country house restored for tours and history, it’s home to an abundance of community events for Cork City visitors to partake in. Fota hosts an annual Easter trail that brings the beauty of Cork City’s natural landscape and wildlife to the forefront as children search for their own personal chocolate egg.Â
Date: April 14, 2017; Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm; Price: €7 for children, adults go free.
Fitzgeralds Park and PlaygroundÂ
Fitzgeralds Park is one of Cork city’s greatest parks makes for a perfect home for a Spring getaway or an Easter Picnic. Situated on 18 acres, its great for the kids as it offers a fantastic playground, large open fields, tall trees, wildlife, and a pond. For the adults, it offers many riverside benches to take in Cork city’s natural landscaping, a cafe, and a free museum. What the entire family won’t want to miss is a walk over Cork’s infamous “Shakey Bridge” which stretches from the park, across the river, to Sunday’s Well. You get quite a bit of bounce with your walk, and the brave even attempt some jumps to really get it moving!Â
Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral
One of the oldest and most divinely adorned architectural church buildings in Cork city is the Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Having been home to services since 606 AD, this sanctuary displays murals on the church ceilings, colourful stained glass windows, as 46 foot high Bishop’s throne and a 1870 church organ that has 3012 pipes! A beautiful, majestic cathedral, and a must see when on an Easter break in Cork city!
Visitor Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 9:30-17:30, Sunday 13:00 – 14.30 & 16.30 – 17:30 (April-October only), Open Bank Holidays 9.30 – 17.00
The Donkey Sanctuary
If you fancy a day trip outside of the city you can visit the Donkey Sanctuary. This free donkey sanctuary located in the beautiful countryside of County Cork has been home to more than 5,200 donkeys rescued from all over the country. Often times, this is the first time they have felt loved and cared for. It is an extremely heartwarming experience for all ages, and offers a great way to teach the important lesson of compassion during this special time of the year.
Opening times: Monday-Friday, 9.00 am to 4.30 pm, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, 10.00 am to 5.00 pm; Free admission. Free parking.
