Image: David Dixon





Cork County Council has re-opened a number of popular tourist sites across the county, as towns across the county get ready to welcome back tourists this summer.

The reopening of these tourist spots will provide a much needed boost for many locations already benefiting from other initiatives under Project ACT, Cork County Council’s initiative to support towns and communities.

The openings are taking place while ensuring all public health safety measures are fully implemented.

From this week, the following tourist destinations are reopen to visitors:

  • Skibbereen Heritage Centre
  • Michael Collins House
  • St Mary’s Collegiate Church, Youghal
  • Youghal Clock Gate
  • Cobh Heritage Centre
  • Spike Island
  • The grounds of Mallow Castle

Safety procedures have been put in place at each location, with guidance on social distancing and hand sanitising stations.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley said:

“It is wonderful to see these popular tourist spots reopen to the public and to visitors to the area. Tourism is vital to the local economies across Cork county and we are delighted to see destinations opening again. I would encourage locals and visitors alike to pay a visit to these spots over the summer and support our local economies.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey said:

“I would like to congratulate all of those involved in ensuring these tourism spots can reopen their doors. It has not been an easy road to get to this point and we would strongly encourage locals when Rediscovering Cork County that they would include visits to these fascinating tourist destinations. We continue to encourage people to stay local, and support local in the weeks and months ahead.”

Dursey Cable Car will also resume service on July 6th. Visitors should note that strict Public Health Guidelines will be in effect and it is anticipated that this will result in increased waiting times.

Meanwhile, as communities begin to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, Cork County Council has created a unique, interactive ‘Rediscover Cork County’ map providing, at the touch of a button, a wide range of information on attractions and activities to avail of across the county. The initiative is part of the Local Authority’s wider Project ACT (Activating County Towns), a dedicated programme to help businesses and communities to support the regeneration of the economy in Cork’s towns and villages.

While the ‘Rediscover Cork County’ map provides details on places and activities, one of its key features is ‘Near Me’, which enables the user to insert their location or town of preference within a radius of up to 100 kilometres. The map will then provide information on nearby attractions within that area and generate directions to an attraction or activity of choice, enabling the rediscovery of Cork County and its many hidden gems. Up to 12 categories can be filtered such as attractions, activities, gardens, beaches, family fun, heritage and food experiences plus many more.

The ‘Rediscover Cork County’ Tourism Map can be found by visiting www.corkcoco.ie and is compatible across all mobile devices. The map is also available on Cork’s premier tourism website www.purecork.ie

Cork County Council will continue to develop its database of Cork attractions and activities and will update the map as required. Feedback/suggestions on the map are welcome and can be submitted by emailing [email protected].


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