Take five: Places to visit

Camden Fort Meagher

Camden Fort Meagher is internationally recognised as one of the finest remaining examples of a classical coastal artillery fort in the world. Situated in Crosshaven, Cork Harbour, this magnificent fort is one of Ireland’s newest attractions and a must-see for any visitor to Cork. Set on 45 acres, 65% underground, the fort is steeped in history from its earliest fortification in 1550. Most of what can be seen at the fort today was constructed by British forces in the mid 1860s. In 1938, the fort was handed over to the Irish Defence Forces. Interactive exhibitions and extensively restored areas of the fort offer an extraordinary glimpse of Camden Fort Meagher’s strong British and Irish military history. The fort was one of only eight locations worldwide to house the world’s first practical guided missile, The Brennan Torpedo. The fort also houses the only resident 9/11 exhibition in the world outside of New York. Private tours for groups of 12 or more are available throughout the year by emailing bookings@camdenfortmeagher.ie or calling 085-8613077. Further info is available at www.camdenfortmeagher.ie

Shandon Bells and the Butter Museum

How about doing something different and spend an afternoon exploring St Anne’s Church, one of Cork’s oldest buildings. Built in 1722, it is almost 300 years old and is the oldest church in continuous use in the city. Visitors can play songs on the original 18th century bells or climb through the tower to see the ‘Four-Faced Liar’, the original four-faced clock. See spectacular views of Cork city and beyond from the tower balcony. Open all year round, see www.shandonbells.ie for more.

At the same time, why not take in the Butter Museum at the Tony O’Reilly Centre, adjacent to Shandon. This museum celebrates one of the great success stories of Ireland – the butter trade. The story begins with the central role of dairy culture in the Island of Saints and Scholars. The museum goes on to describe the internationally important Butter Exchange in 19th-century Cork, the traditional craft of home butter making and the modern success of the Kerrygold brand. For more, call 021-4300600, visit www.corkbutter.museum or email info@corkbutter.museum

West Cork Model Railway Village

A visit to the award-winning West Cork Model Railway Village is a treat for all the family. On the Inchydoney Road overlooking Clonakilty Bay, the model village is a fullscale replica of the towns that grew up along the West Cork Railway in the 1940s. West Cork Model Railway tells the story of how people lived and worked in those days and gives both children and adults an understanding of the local history of the area. One of the most enjoyable activities at the model village is a 30-minute audio tour on the road train around Clonakilty, which is a lovely way to see the town. There is also an interpretive centre featuring film footage of the railway and original artefacts on display that will appeal to people who like trains or history or both. There’s also a café and craft shop in authentic railway carriages overlooking the bay and an indoor soft play and outdoor play and picnic areas. For more, call 023-8833224 or see www.modelvillage.ie

The Jameson Experience

If you are visiting east Cork, then a trip to the Jameson Experience in Midleton is well worth a detour. Set in 15 acres, this distillery is steeped in history and is both a cultural and educational experience. With over 100,000 visitors a year, the Jameson Experience attracts a global and national tourism market. Daytime tours operate seven days a year, except selected dates at Christmas. The journey begins with an audio-visual presentation, followed by a walk through the recreated distillery and culminates in the Jameson Bar with a complimentary glass of Jameson and a chance to become a qualified Irish whiskey taster. You can have a delicious lunch in the Malt House Restaurant or browse the distillery shop for a memento of your visit. For more, 021-4613594 or visit www.jamesonwhiskey.com

The English Market

The English Market has been an institution of fresh food and produce in Cork since approximately 1788. Located in the heart of the city, with multiple entrances from St Patrick’s Street, Princes Street, Grand Parade, and Oliver Plunkett Street, it is one of the oldest municipal roofed markets in the world. It is best known for its traditional stalls such as butchers, fishmongers, poultry sellers and fruit and vegetables. There are also a wide variety of stalls selling items both local and from far afield, with products such as breads, cheeses, olives, charcuterie, confectionery, spices and sauces and preserves. There are also lots of local specialities such as tripe, drisheen, crubeens, and spiced beef. With good value and variety in the market, there are products for every budget, whether you are shopping for your weekly groceries, popping in on your lunch break or planning a special meal. The English Market’s atmosphere is unique, with the hustle and bustle that comes from an indoor market, where family-run stalls have been handed down through generations. You can also linger a little longer by sipping a coffee or having a meal in one of the market’s cafés. The market is open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday. For further information, visit www.englishmarket.ie.