Things to do in Cork for Couples
Things to do in Cork for Couples
If you are looking for a romantic getaway with your loved one and wonder what there is to do in Cork, our guide will give you a long list of ideas, no matter how the weather is.
1. Visit the Jameson Distillery
Located in Midleton
A 25-minute car drive from the hotel
The Jameson Experience, Midleton, is an Irish whiskey museum and visitor centre located in the Old Midleton Distillery in Midleton, County Cork, Ireland. Set over 15 acres, since opening as a visitor's centre in 1992, the old distillery has received approximately 100,000 guests per year.
The Jameson Experience brings the stories of Jameson's rich heritage and ongoing innovations to life during this unforgettable distillery tour. Visit the amazing buildings, hear about the hardworking craftsmen and learn about the field to glass processes behind the famous Jameson taste.
Not only will you enjoy the beautiful surrounds of the distillery with a guided tour, afterwards you can sit back, relax and savour the Premium Whiskey Tasting with four of the finest whiskeys.
2. Enjoy a break at the Escape Spa
Located right in the hotel
Welcome to the Escape Spa at the most historical luxury boutique Imperial Hotel in Cork City.
Providing a sanctuary from the stresses of the world with each corner of the Escape Spa designed to soothe your senses. This urban retreat is an oasis of calm where relaxation and rejuvenation take centre stage. We offer an array of tranquil treatments and products from our spa brands VOYA and AVEDA.
Ultimately, the space is perfect for a spa break, girlie weekend, couples retreat or simply treating yourself to some much deserved ‘me time’.
When it comes to Spa hotels in Cork, Escape Spa offers the ultimate in indulgence, tranquillity and rejuvenation with Offers & Deals and Spa Treatments to suit every need.
Opening Times:
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 18:30
3. Visit the Marina Market
Located in Cork City
A 15-minute walk from the hotel
The Market is a community, evolving and growing in the heart of the city. The Market is dog friendly and parking is available on site. Cork’s cosmopolitan market - leading the way with indoor and outdoor space with an amazing range of food, retail and lifestyle.
The Marina Market is open from 8am to 8pm Monday - Sunday.
4. Take a stroll through the gardens at Blarney and visit the castle
Located in Blarney, 8 km from Cork City
A 20-minute car drive or a 25-minute bus ride to Blarney Church and then a 5-minute walk to the entrance of Blarney Castle. There is a 2€ fee for the car park.
Blarney Castle is a tower house that was built between the 15th and 17th centuries. This Castle is an unusually large tower house with two towers – the second one was added in the 1500s.
There are many legends about the Blarney Stone’s origin, which all can be read about here. But it is said that whoever kisses the stone will grow eloquent. The word Blarney was introduced into the English language by Queen Elizabeth I and is described as pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending. The stone is set in the wall below the battlements, and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards (grasping an iron railing) from the parapet walk.
On the grounds you can also find the Blarney House. It is a Scottish Baronial mansion that was built in 1874 and is open to the public during summer months. The house is located 200m south of the Blarney castle.
Further there are 60 acres of land to explore, which are constantly changing und evolving their environment throughout the season.
The Poison Garden is a highlight for many as it contains an interesting and educational collection of deadly and dangerous plants from around the world. Besides the garden there are many more beautiful walks you can take through the parkland filled with rare and unusual trees and a collection of many other different plants.
Best to look at their website for current opening hours
5. Enjoy a cocktail evening at Sketch
Located in the hotel
Looking for a top spot to spend an evening catching up with friends over delicious drinks and a bite to eat? Sketch cocktail bar offers Cork City’s best cocktails. Enjoy birdcage-sharing platters, light bites, and an extensive range of cocktails in a vibrant and relaxed setting. Escape, discover, and indulge in this botanical cocktail bar in the heart of Cork City and enjoy everything that Sketch has to offer including delicious light bites, beautiful drinks, and an oasis of informal charm.
Open from Monday to Sunday
6. Visit the Elizabeth fort
Located in Cork City
A 9-minute walk from the hotel
Elizabeth Fort is a 17th-century star fort located right beside Saint Fin Barr’s Cathedral. Originally built as a defensive fort on high ground outside the city walls, the city eventually grew around the fort, and it took on various other roles.
Built in 1601 during the reign of Elizabeth I, it was used as an army base for the protection of the city. It was demolished by the citizens of Cork in 1603 but they were compelled to rebuild it at their own expense. It was replaced in 1624 by a stronger fort which had the same basic outline as that which survives today. 2014, the fort has seen some development as a tourism heritage site.
Elizabeth Fort is open to the public and entry is free of charge, it provides great views over Cork city.
Opening times 09.30 – 17.00.
Located in Cork City
A 6-minute walk from the hotel
Founded in 1818, the Crawford Art Gallery is housed in one of the most historic buildings in Cork city. Originally built in 1724, as Cork's Custom House, the building was transformed into a magnificent art museum in the late 19th century, while a dramatic new gallery extension was added in the year 2000.
In addition to its fine art collection and at the heart of the gallery is a collection of Greek and Roman sculpture casts, brought to Cork in 1818, copies of sculptures from the Vatican Museum in Rome.
The Cooper Penrose Collection, which consists of paintings, furniture, ceramics and personal items, giving a unique insight into the social and cultural life of a leading 'merchant prince' of 18th century Cork.
The Crawford Art Gallery is unique in that art historical work is juxtaposed with contemporary Irish and international art practice. The gallery offers an extensive education programme. With a popular cafe and bookshop, the Gallery has a unique appeal to the 250,000 visitors, who come to the Gallery each year.
Don't know where to stay yet?
Our 4-star establishment is located in the heart of the city and offers 4 star luxury to all those who enter our doors. We believe everyone deserves a relaxing getaway, and so regularly offer special weekend offers.
Book your stay now to don’t miss out on these amazing couple adventures above.