Guest info

Our location has the best of both worlds – set in a quiet residential suburb for a great night’s sleep, but with all the activity and excitement you could wish for in Cork city, just 10 minutes down the road.

Here’s the need-to-know and what-to-do while you are staying with us. We have included links, where possible, so our guests can always get the most up-to-date information directly straight from the business.

Getting around – Ballintemple, Blackrock and beyond

Local transport options

  • Buses – the 202 and 202A runs every 15 minutes at peak times, and stops almost outside our door. You’ll be in the city in 20 minutes. Go in the opposite direction and it will take you to Mahon Point shopping centre.
  • Taxis – local company Satellite Taxis are available at 021 480 80 80 , or download the FreeNow app for all Cork taxi providers.
  • Trains – we are a 10 minute drive from Cork Train Station (Kent) and the Aircoach stop nearby.
  • Airport – we are about 15 minutes drive from Cork Airport.
  • Bike – hire a bike from Cork Bike Hire, it can be picked up at the nearby Marina Market. Contact info@midletongreenway.com and tell them we sent you!
  • Walking! There’s loads of lovely walks in the area, including the Marina (500m down the hill from us) which connects to the Cork Harbour Greenway.

Where to eat in Blackrock and nearby

Food in 5 minutes – you’re spoiled for choice, at any time of the day. Just around the corner there is:

  • Basil Deli – eat-in or takeaway: coffee, lunches and salads, great cakes and more.
  • Longboats bar – they do food some evenings (we recommend the gougons) – check their social media for more.
  • The Venue bar – no website – this is lovely local pub that does Italian style fresh-made pizza at the weekends. Want to watch a match? It’s probably screening here.
  • Ballintemple Stores – great local shop with a lunchtime deli counter (there’s a pharmacy next doora as well).
  • The Silver Key – large pub offering breakfast, lunch and dinner options and can handle larger groups. Book a table online to be sure of your space.
  • Ross Bakery – no fuss bakery with fresh bread and pastries each morning.

If you’re up for a short walk, you could try:

  • Blackrock Pier – several bakeries and delis are dotted around the harbour
  • Blackrock Castle Cafe – brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktails – bookings advised for dinner and at weekends
  • The Marina Market – sushi, burgers, pizza, bubble tea, Korean chicken, loaded fries and lots of vegan food – we haven’t even scratched the surface of what’s here. Over 30 food stalls to choose from, events most weekends, family and dog friendly. Try the disco fries at Poulet Vous, or the cannolli at Sicilian Delights.
  • The Black Market – the Marina Market’s cooler cousin with some of Cork’s best food, gathered in one spot
  • SALT food and wine – fabulous brunch options and Instagram-worthy food and coffee.
  • Leaping Salmon pub– live music some night, booking advised if you fancy food!

And there’s endless options waiting for you in Cork city. We can recommend Market Lane, Gallaghers Gastro Pub, Spitjack, and Arthur Maynes as some good starting spots.

What to do in Cork city

Just up the road is Blackrock Castle and Cafe – The castle has been restored and opened as an observatory, also with a (very nice) restaurant onsite. Admission includes access to the award winning science centre, a tour of the 16th century castle, and a live astronomy show. Website: https://www.bco.ie/

Visit the English Market – This iconic covered food market that has been in operation since 1788. It is a great place to experience the real Cork and taste delicious local food. You can find everything from fresh fish and meat to baked goods and artisanal cheeses. Website: https://www.englishmarket.ie/

Amazing views from Elizabeth Fort – Travel back in time at Cork’s seventeenth century star-shaped fort, just off the heart of the city. Enjoy stunning views of the city while walking the walls, join a guided tour or take an audio guide. Admission is free. Website: https://www.corkcity.ie/en/elizabeth-fort/

Wander in Fitzgerald Park – A beautiful public park in the heart of Cork City, with wandering walks, gardens, sculptures set on the banks of the river Lee. It also has a playground for children, a skate park, and a cafe. Website: https://www.corkcity.ie/en/parks-outdoors/parks/fitzgeralds-park.html

Discover the Crawford Art Gallery – One of the finest art galleries in Ireland, with a collection that ranges from contemporary art to Old Masters. The gallery is housed in a beautiful building and admission is free. Website: https://crawfordartgallery.ie/

Cork City Gaol Tour – Visit the historic Cork City Gaol, a former prison that has been converted into a museum. Learn about the harsh living conditions of prisoners in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and hear stories of famous inmates. Website: https://corkcitygaol.com/

Want to go for a day trip?

Fota – Fota Wildlife Park is Cork’s most visited Tourist Attraction and has been awarded best family day out in Cork and Munster. The Park is set on 70 acres on the scenic Fota Island, only 15 minutes from Cork City. Fota House and Gardens and the famous spa of Fota Island resort are also on the island. You can access Fota by rail from Kent Station or in 15 minutes by car. Website: https://www.fotawildlife.ie/

Spike Island – In the last 1300 years, and at the centre of Cork Harbour, Spike Island’s rich history has included monks and monasteries, rioters and redcoats, captains and convicts and sinners and saints. Website: https://www.spikeislandcork.ie/

Jameson Experience Tour – Visit the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, just outside Cork City, and learn about the history of Irish whiskey-making. Take a guided tour of the distillery, taste some of the finest whiskeys, and learn about the art of blending. Website: https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-US/visit-us/jameson-distillery-midleton

Blarney Castle and Gardens Tour – Take a tour to the famous Blarney Castle, located just 8 km from Cork City, and kiss the famous Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence. Explore the castle’s many rooms and gardens, and enjoy spectacular views from the top of the castle. Website: https://blarneycastle.ie/ Blarney Castle and Gardens

Wild Atlantic Way Tour – Take a scenic tour of the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal route that stretches over 2500 km along the western seaboard of Ireland. Explore rugged landscapes, picturesque towns and villages, and stunning natural beauty. Website: https://www.wildatlanticway.com/home

Kinsale – A picturesque coastal town just a short drive from Cork City, Kinsale is famous for its historic harbor, colorful streets, and delicious seafood. Take a walk along the harbor, visit the Charles Fort, and enjoy some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants. Website: https://www.kinsale.ie/

Clonakilty and the West Cork Coast – Explore the scenic West Cork Coast and visit the charming town of Clonakilty, known for its traditional music, artisan food, and independent shops. Take a walk along Inchydoney Beach, visit the Michael Collins Center, or go whale watching in the Atlantic Ocean. Website: https://www.clonakilty.ie/

Ring of Kerry – Take a tour of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Ireland. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming villages. Highlights include the Skellig Islands, Muckross House, and the Gap of Dunloe. Website: https://theringofkerry.com/

Cork – tours and more

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