19 AUTUMN 22 DESTINATION IRELAND
Cork is the perfect base from which to explore both the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland ’ s Ancient East , but first you must get under its skin .
The best way is to walk the narrow , undulating streets , crisscrossing the River Lee which flows through the city . Along the way , Cork ’ s colourful history will make itself felt .
St Fin Barre ’ s Cathedral , an imposing example of Frenchgothic architecture , attests to the city ’ s founder and patron saint who established a monastery there in AD 650 .
Gateways at street level point to Cork ’ s more recent past as a merchant city when , in the 18th century , traders brought their goods in by boat . A visit to the Cork Butter Museum reveals more about this period when the Cork Butter Exchange became the largest butter market in the world .
The city ’ s 19th century history is told in the magnificent Cork City Gaol visitor centre , which is particularly atmospheric on an evening tour .
Cork folk are fond of a festival and there ’ s barely a month goes by without one . From the Cork International Poetry Festival in February to the city ’ s famous Christmas celebration , Glow , there is a fountain of festivals that feature everything from music to literature , food and film .
Should you somehow miss one though , there ’ s enough fun in the city ’ s lively , music-filled pubs to provide plenty of ad hoc entertainment .
A visit to Cork isn ’ t complete without climbing to the belfry of the 18th-century St Anne ’ s Church to ring the world-famous Shandon Bells . From there you can also enjoy panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside .
Cork people are fiercely proud of their city . After a visit , it will be easy to see why .
The fascinating heritage explored , now delve into the city ’ s well-deserved reputation as a first-class foodie destination . The many restaurants and gastro-pubs serve up delicious local dishes , and the thriving craft beer scene can wash it all down .
The city is the home of the famous English Market , regarded as one of the best covered food markets around and a source of delicacies and artisan produce from around the world . An afternoon spent browsing its shops and stalls is an epicurean ’ s delight .