Cobh (pronounced – Cove) was known from 1849 till 1920 as Queenstown due to a visit from Queen Victoria in 1849. The name was changed again to Cobh in 1920 with the birth of the Irish Free State. This town is part of the Cork harbor which is the 2nd largest natural harbor in the world allowing cruise ships of all sizes to weekly dock here. It is infamous for the last port of call of the Titanic in 1912 and subsequently the sinking of the Lusitania just off the coast in 1915. The town features notable memorials for both of these events.
If you are of Irish descent it is most likely your relatives departed from Cobh as well. Cobh was the departure point for 2.5 million of the six million Irish people who emigrated to North America between 1848 and 1950. A statue of Annie Moore and her brothers on the pier depicts the first immigrant to pass through Ellis Island immigration in New York City January 1, 1892.
These important events in history make Cobh an interesting port of call for thousands each year. You may wonder what is the best use of your time while docked here? This article will outlay some suggestions to help you make the best choices.
By Foot
The hillside town sits on the southern shore of the Great Island of Cork Harbor. The many steep streets all make this towns views a pleasant walk. Heading east of the dock to the harbor front there is a lot to see and do including the Cobh Immigration center where you can access free WiFi, dining and souvenir shopping.
Continuing further along the waterfront it’s a short walk to the main area of the town where there is the Titanic museum and restaurant with pier side dining. For a truly unique vantage point of the town we recommend a walk under the Library Arch building in Casement Square and up the hill of the famous “Deck of Cards” on Westview and working your way to the famous St. Colemans Cathedral for expansive harbor views. Dining choices are plentiful in Cobh but we really enjoyed our meals at Gilberts Bistro in the Square and breakfast sandwiches and coffee at Cuppacity Coffee in Casement Square!
Within an Hours Drive
Once you step off the ship in Cobh you will have plenty of options for bus tours, personal tours and car rentals. The train station is also right here for a less than 25 minute train trip into the city of Cork. You are centrally located in Cobh to many attractions Ireland is famous for such as Blarney Castle, the English Market in Cork and Jameson Whiskey in Midleton to name a few. You are also close by some maybe not so well known but worthwhile destinations as well.
- Kinsale is a picturesque town around 50 min drive away and full of history and beautiful coastline. The 17th century star shaped Charles Fort is a historical and interesting visit with beautiful views of the River Bandon and the pivotal role it played in Irish history.
2. Ballymaloe Cookery School is around 40 minutes away and a world renowned school for chefs.
The restaurants and shops here allow you a taste of what this part of Ireland is best known for and that is organic, fresh and local ingredients in their restaurants and at home. Chefs train here and go on to cook for some of the best restaurants in the world.
3. Ballycotton is not far from this school and could be included in your day at the Cookery school having one of the most beautiful cliff walks and lighthouse Ireland is so famous for. This coastal fishing village and family holiday destination sits on a rocky ledge with beautiful views of Ballycotton Bay.
4. Ardmore is a 53 minute ride from Cobh and another quintessential Irish village that is full of history. It is believed to be the oldest settlement in Ireland settled by Saint Declan in 350 to 450 A.D. with stone carvings of Adam and Eve on the ruins of the Cathedral from the 9th century.
On the hill above the village is also a well preserved 12th century round tower. The town has a beautiful cliff walk and sandy beaches well worth exploring as well.
Enjoy your visit to this port of call and the many beautiful sights Ireland has to offer. We hope you will be able to make the best use of your time here and feel the true beauty and warm hospitality Ireland is so well known for.
