Short Breaks in Cork, Ireland
Getting to Cork for a short break is easy as there are direct flights with Jet 2 Airlines who operate a regular service from Newcastle to Cork and a great fares. When you get there you have a great selection of accommodation to choose from. There are Bed and breakfast properties to five star luxury in the Hayfield Manor Hotel located a short walk from the centre of Cork.
Cork got its name from the Irish work corcach which when translated means marshy place. Cork today is very different and is now the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland. The Rive Lee flows through the city and joins the Lough Mahon and helps create one of the largest natural harbours in the world. Cork is still a major seaport and has lots of quays and docks
Originally founded by St Finbarr some time in the sixth century its charter was granted in 1185 by King John. Cork became an important trading port with the Scandinavians however this also attracted unwanted visitors such as Vikings and Norsemen who attacked Cork. The city was once fully walled and some of the wall remains today.
The climate in the Cork region is mild, moist and changeable with lots of rain however it does not usually face extreme temperatures and weather. Cork is a foggy city and has an average of around a hundred days of fog a year. Despite the fog Cork is also one of the sunniest cities in Ireland with an average of nearly four hours of sunshine every day.
There are lots of places to visit whilst visiting Cork and a lot of architectural buildings of note. The most famous building in Cork is the church tower of Shandon, which dominates the northern side of the city. St Patrick’s Street is a main street, which has been renovated and is now a pedestrian friendly route through the main shopping area. Don′t forget to visit Blarney Castle, Charles Fort and perhaps a visit to the greyhound Stadium.
Cork has the usual quota of fast food restaurants you would see in most cities around the world. There is also a good selection of mid price family owned ones offering good value food at a good price. For those wanting something a bit more special you will not be disappointed with the choice. There are plenty of pubs and bars and nightlife to keep anyone happy.
