Street with bright colored houses in Kinsale, Ireland
Street with bright colored houses in Kinsale, Ireland

Kinsale

Kinsale, Ireland

The basics

Just a short hop from the city of Cork, Kinsale is a popular summer day trip destination. Many day-trippers make stops at Charles Fort, the star-shaped 17th-century fort just southeast of the town, and at the Old Head Signal Tower, which hosts a museum documenting the fate of the RMS Lusitania, which was sunk by a German U-boat in 1915. Many multi-day tours around counties Cork, Kerry, and other parts of the southwest of Ireland include a stop at Kinsale.

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Things to know before you go

  • Kinsale is a must for history buffs and foodies.
  • Wear sturdy footwear if you plan on exploring the town’s ruined forts.
  • Plan a lunch or dinner stop here—Kinsale’s seafood is superb.
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How to get there

Kinsale is about a 30-minute drive south of Cork city. Bus Éireann service 226 runs between Cork and Kinsale. 

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When to get there

The best time to visit Kinsale is in summer, when warmer weather allows you to take advantage of the surrounding beaches and coastal walks. Summer weekends can be busy so go midweek for a more peaceful experience. 

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Beaches in Kinsale

There are several scenic beaches within easy reach of Kinsale. Just a 5-minute walk from James Fort lies Dock Beach, a small swimmable strand near Castlepark Marina. A short drive west of town lies golden-sand Garrettstown, a spacious stretch with ample facilities including restrooms and lifeguards during the bathing season, while a 20-minute drive east takes you to Robert’s Cove, a sheltered inlet ideal for swimming. 

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Kinsale?
A:

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