The best fun and romantic things to do this Valentine’s Day in Cork.
The big V-day is approaching fast, and before we know it 14 February will be upon us; card shops and gift stores will be jam-packed and getting a reservation just about anywhere will be near impossible.
Regardless of whether you’re love-sick or sickly in love, happily single or unhappily partnered, here are the top 10 ways to spend Valentine’s Day in Cork this year.
10. Shandon Bells & Tower
This Valentine’s Day could call for something a little less obvious with a climb to the top of Saint Anne’s Church in Cork, to witness, first hand, the Shandon Bells and Tower.
This alternative date experience will certainly be a little more unique, if that’s your thing, and will offer a little built-in exercise, too.
The 132 step climb will certainly make you feel the burn, but the 360-degree view over Cork city from the top will make it all worth the while.
Insider tip: the nearby Mother Jones Cork Flea Market makes for a great post-bellringing destination to do a spot of thrift shopping.
Where: Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church, Church St, Shandon, Co Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: http://www.shandonbells.ie
9. Save a Life at the Donkey Sanctuary
Feel like spreading the love this V-day? Why not head on out to The Donkey Sanctuary in Mallow. This heartfelt little day trip is bound to get the feels flowing.
Home to over 130 donkeys and mules – who are all in need of much love – you can leave feeling a little better about yourself after sponsoring one of these furry friends which continues to provide them with care and love.
Where: The Donkey Sanctuary, Knockardbane, Mallow, Co. Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Free admission
Link: https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ie/
8. Ballycotton Cliff Walk
Who said Valentine’s Day has to be all splash and cash? Sometimes the best way to strike romance is with a simple gesture.
The Ballycotton cliff walk in Cork is a great option this V-day. Utterly free and utterly breathtaking, this will be the perfect place to plant that first kiss!
Where: Ballycotton Cliff Walk, Co. Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Free admission
Link: http://www.ballycotton.ie
7. Atlantic Sea Kayaks
Strike an adventurous note with your valentine this February with a fun day out on the water. Atlantic Sea Kayaks are the top company for the job and offer all types of trips.
Although the more-atmospheric option of nighttime kayaking only comes in from March onwards, a daytime paddle is sure to break the ice.
Where: Atlantic Sea Kayaking, Abbey Bungalow, Abbeystrowry, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: https://www.atlanticseakayaking.com/
6. Explore Gougane Barra with a Picnic
This stunning little settlement not far from the city of Cork is the perfect place to explore on foot with a picnic basket in hand this Valentine’s Day.
With stunning surroundings and your valentine of choice, what more could one want? Just don’t forget the blankets – it’s likely to be chilly!
Where: GouganeBarra, Co. Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Free admission
Link: www.gouganebarra.com/
5. Triskel Arts Centre
Take in some culture at the esteemed Triskel Arts Centre in Cork this Valentine’s Day.
A variety of arts, theatre, cinema and live performance fill the schedule so there’ll be lots to choose from, no doubt. On the 14 February, they’re even showing Casablanca for the day in question!
Where: Triskel Arts Centre, Tobin St, Centre, Co. Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: https://triskelartscentre.ie/
4. Crane Lane Theatre
Feel like soaking up some tunes with your valentine this V-day? There is no better place to do so than the Crane Lane Theatre.
With live music, cool jazz and smoky soul sessions taking place seven nights a week, Crane Lane is the perfect place for a courting couple.
Where: Crane Lane Theatre, Phoenix St, Centre, Co. Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: https://www.cranelanetheatre.ie/
3. Escape to Ballymaloe
Escape to Ballymaloe Hotel this Valentine’s Day and relish in the height of fine Irish food, luxury accommodation and stunning farmhouse surroundings.
Feeling creative? Head down the road to take part in one of Darina Allen’s world-renowned cookery classes. Couples can go private or take part in a group session.
Where: Ballymaloe Hotel and Restaurant, Shanagarry, Midleton, Co. Cork
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: https://ballymaloe.ie/
Where: Ballymaloe Cookery School, Shanagarry, Midleton, Co. Cork
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: http://www.cookingisfun.ie/
2. Blackrock Castle Observatory
A certain way to strike a romantic note this Valentine’s Day is with a visit to Blackrock Castle Observatory to stargaze.
The stunning castle fortress is a magical place to spend the afternoon, as you explore the galaxy and skies above.
Where: Blackrock Castle Observatory, Castle Rd, Blackrock, Co Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: https://www.bco.ie/
1. Fota Wildlife
Take a walk on the wild side at Fota Wildlife this V-day. Set over 100 acres, this sprawling wildlife park is certainly an exotic and alternative way to ring in V-day with your valentine of choice.
Where: Fota Wildlife Park, Fota, Carrigtohill, Co Cork, Ireland
When: Various times/dates
How Much: Varies
Link: https://www.fotawildlife.ie/
