things to do in west cork
A visit to West Cork would not be complete with doing one, some or all of the following! If you're looking for some fun things to do in Rosscarbery or fun things to do in West Cork more widely then continue reading below for our top tips.
Drombeg Stone Circle is one of the most visited megalithic sites in Ireland and is protected under the National Monuments Act. Known locally as 'Druid's Altar' Drombeg is a Recumbent stone circle. Steeped in history, stone circles were places of ritual and ceremony in the later Bronze Age period (c. 1500 BC - 600 BC) and were usually associated with human burial. Also at the site is a fulacht fiadh or prehistoric cooking site and ruins of oval huts made from standing stones. A must-see when in West Cork.
The Clonakilty Distillery Tour (12 mins drive - 13km) provides visitors with a hands-on sensory experience of a real working whiskey and gin distillery. Through the large glazed sections of the waterfront building, see our three specially commissioned copper pot stills producing the best of Irish spirits. The ground and first floors hold a state-of-the-art visitors centre and well-stocked gift shop.
Things To Do In Cork With Kids
One of Ireland’s greatest military and political leaders lived 6km west of Clonakilty during the early 1890s. Take a trip to the Michael Collins House (12 mins drive - 13km) at Emmet Square, Clonakilty. Enjoy family-friendly guided tours and audio-visual presentations around his life, suitable for all ages and levels of interest. Open 10am to 5pm, Wed to Sat. Children’s ticket just €2
Spend the afternoon at the Lagoon Activity Centre where you can go kayaking, paddle boating, stand-up paddleboarding, or windsurfing. Great fun for all the family! For more information and opening times please click here
If you are looking for an adventure there is no better place than Smuggler's Cove (3 mins drive - 1.2km) where Mum and Dad can relax with a coffee and the kids can play a round of adventure golf or have hours of fun in the maze! There is even a golf range with all-weather bays and two outdoor grass areas. All residents receive 10% off.
Find the fairies in Glenview Gardens & Hobbit Houses (26 mins drive - 28km) - A beautiful 3 acre garden with amazing designs and fun for all the family. The kids will have a great time visiting the Hobbit House built right through the birch mound or searching for the fairy houses in the fairy woodland. View the Budgies, Parakeets, Finches, Ducks and Chickens in the Bird Aviary or explore the tropical gardens and wildflower meadow. A wonderful way to spend some time outdoors.
The Model Railway Village (13 mins drive - 14km) for a fun and memorable day out. Walking into the model village, you step back in time and see life as it was in the 1940s. See the old West Cork railway line portrayed in delightful miniature. The road train tours the town and surrounding areas of Clonakilty and a few waves from the locals are always guaranteed!
Inchydoney Surf School (18 mins drive - 16km) is situated on the blue flag beach of Inchydoney, The school runs lessons all year round and surf camps during the summer. Whether you are a novice or well used to riding the waves, you are guaranteed an experience not be missed. All equipment is provided including, wetsuits, surfboards and boots.
With so many things to do in West Cork, why not make the most out of your trip and stay longer for less. See our latest hotel special offers below for great savings.
