The Lough Trail: A Tranquil Escape in Cork City
Escape to nature in Cork City at The Lough Trail: a scenic walk around a protected wildlife refuge and historical landmark.
The Lough Trail, known as Cosán an Locha in Irish, is a scenic walking and running route encircling The Lough, a serene lake in Cork City. This urban oasis offers a peaceful retreat with lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and a well-maintained path suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
A brief summary to The Lough Trail(Cosán an Locha)
- 5A Glendalough Park, Cork, The Lough, IE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and stunning sunrise views over the lake.
- Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife, especially the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail can be uneven in parts.
Getting There
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Walking
From Cork city center, such as Patrick Street, head southwest towards Washington Street. Continue on this street until you reach The Lough area. The walk is approximately 1.8km and should take around 21 minutes. Follow the signs to Glendalough Park, where the trailhead is located at 5A Glendalough Park.
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Public Transport
From Cork city center, take Bus Éireann route 214 from South Main Street to Westbourne Terrace. The bus journey takes approximately 6 minutes and departs every 30 minutes. From the bus stop at Westbourne Terrace, it is a short walk to the trailhead at 5A Glendalough Park. A single adult bus fare is approximately €1.50 with a Leap card.
Discover more about The Lough Trail(Cosán an Locha)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
1.2 km
Discover the historic Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle in Cork's scenic The Lough area, open daily for a reflective journey into the past.
Nano Nagle Bridge
1.4 km
Experience the beauty and history of Nano Nagle Bridge in Cork, an architectural marvel connecting communities and offering stunning riverside views.
National Monument - Cork
1.5 km
Discover the National Monument in Cork, a stunning historical landmark celebrating Ireland's rich heritage and independence.
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
1.5 km
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S Mall
1.7 km
Cork's elegant Georgian shopping street where historic architecture meets contemporary retail and culinary excellence.
Father Mathew Statue
2.0 km
Discover the Father Mathew Statue in Cork, a historic landmark symbolizing the city's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Eamon de Valera Bridge
2.2 km
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Dundanion House Bridge
4.8 km
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Blarney Castle & Gardens
7.4 km
Experience the charm of Blarney Castle & Gardens in Ireland, where history, beauty, and legends come together in a breathtaking setting.
Blarney Stone
7.4 km
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Old Church
13.3 km
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Cobh
13.7 km
Discover Cobh, a vibrant seaside town in County Cork, rich in maritime history and stunning coastal views, perfect for a memorable Irish getaway.
1 Pearse Square
13.9 km
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Camden Fort Meagher
16.7 km
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Stone of Destiny - Site of Battle of Kinsale
19.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Lough
0.2 km
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Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
1.1 km
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Elizabeth Fort
1.2 km
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Cork Public Museum
1.2 km
Explore Cork's rich history and archaeology at the Cork Public Museum, located in the beautiful Fitzgerald Park.
Fitzgerald Park
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Fitzgerald Park, Cork's premier park blending nature, art, and culture for an unforgettable experience.
Lavit Gallery
1.3 km
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Nano Nagle Place
1.3 km
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Nano Nagle Heritage Centre
1.4 km
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The Hanover
1.4 km
A lively Irish pub in Cork’s heart, blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and welcoming local spirit.
Red Abbey Tower
1.4 km
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Wilton Shopping Centre
1.4 km
A bustling shopping hub in Cork’s western suburbs, offering over 65 stores, ample parking, and convenient access near Cork University Hospital.
The Oval
1.4 km
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Michael Collins Statue
1.5 km
A lifelike tribute to Michael Collins, capturing the spirit of Ireland’s revolutionary hero in the heart of Cork city.
Cork Historic Walking Tours
1.5 km
Discover Cork’s layered history on foot with a local guide, from medieval streets to modern markets in the heart of Ireland’s second city.
Bishop Lucey Park
1.5 km
Experience tranquility in Bishop Lucey Park, Cork, a lush urban retreat perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying local culture.
Essential places to dine
Orchids Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine at Orchids Restaurant in Cork's luxurious Hayfield Manor Hotel.
Perrotts Garden Bistro Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover exquisite Irish cuisine at Perrotts Garden Bistro within Hayfield Manor—where culinary artistry meets luxurious surroundings.
The River Club
1.1 km
Elegant modern European dining with stunning River Lee views, seasonal menus, and a relaxed Mediterranean terrace in the heart of Cork.
Paradiso
1.3 km
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Dwyers of Cork
1.4 km
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Iberian Way
1.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of Cork’s historic Douglas Street.
Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine
1.5 km
Discover refined Japanese flavors and natural wines in a lively, casual bistro setting at Ichigo Ichie, Cork’s celebrated culinary gem.
Liberty Grill
1.5 km
A vibrant New England-inspired eatery in Cork city centre, serving fresh, locally sourced brunch, lunch, and dinner with vegan and vegetarian options.
The SpitJack Cork
1.5 km
Award-winning rotisserie brasserie in Cork City offering locally sourced meats, innovative brunch, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Brick Lane
1.6 km
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Jacobs on the Mall
1.6 km
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Tony's Bistro
1.6 km
Cork's beloved mafia-themed bistro serving generous Irish breakfasts and creative lunch fare in a warm, family-run setting.
Ristorante Rossini
1.6 km
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Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork
1.6 km
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The Oyster Tavern
1.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glucksman shop
1.0 km
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St Anthony Stores
1.5 km
A cherished family-run religious goods shop in Cork’s heart, offering spiritual treasures and a deep connection to local heritage.
Turners Cross Retail Park
1.5 km
A premier retail destination in Cork offering home improvement, furnishings, pet supplies, and casual coffee in a convenient, accessible setting.
Primetime Streetwear
1.6 km
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Cork Vintage Quarter
1.6 km
Multi-floor vintage marketplace in a converted grain store, brimming with curated antiques, retro fashion, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
The Retro Workshop Cork
1.6 km
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Home Store + More
1.6 km
Your go-to homewares destination in Cork offering variety, value, and convenience in Turners Cross Retail Park.
St Augustine's Shop
1.6 km
Cork's specialist religious goods shop, serving pilgrims and seekers of spiritual artifacts since the early 20th century.
The English Market
1.6 km
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Handcrafts Cork
1.6 km
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Agora
1.6 km
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MrPRICE Cork City
1.7 km
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Casa Craft
1.7 km
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Carrolls Irish Gifts Store
1.7 km
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Søstrene Grene Cork
1.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gaia
0.8 km
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The Silly Goose
1.4 km
A lively Cork bar and grill blending traditional charm with modern flair, famed for grilled delights, craft drinks, and weekend live music.
The Alibi Bar + Kitchen
1.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and tapas kitchen in Cork city centre with lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and welcoming beer garden.
The Beer Garden
1.5 km
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Edison
1.5 km
A vibrant cocktail bar on Washington Street offering expertly crafted drinks in Cork’s lively city centre.
The Liberty Bar X Resistance
1.5 km
A spirited Cork pub where Irish history meets craft cocktails, live music, and lively community vibes in an industrial-chic setting.
Impala
1.5 km
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Coughlans Bar
1.5 km
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The Raven Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Irish cuisine at The Raven Bar in Cork, a must-visit pub for tourists and locals alike.
An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
1.6 km
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Popscene Late Bar & Club
1.6 km
A lively late-night venue on Oliver Plunkett Street blending 80s tunes with a welcoming atmosphere for all ages in the heart of Cork.
The Black Dog
1.6 km
A dynamic cocktail bar and taqueria in Cork’s city centre, blending authentic Mexican cuisine with alternative music vibes.
Mutton Lane Inn
1.7 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Mutton Lane Inn, a historic pub serving traditional Irish drinks and vibrant local culture.
The Thomond Bar
1.7 km
Discover the heart of Cork's nightlife at The Thomond Bar, where authentic Irish culture meets delicious food and live entertainment.
No.76
1.8 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue blending modern style with historic charm in the heart of Cork City.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Cabaret, Cork
1.5 km
Discover Cork's nightlife at Le Cabaret, where vibrant music, a lively atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences await every night.
The Secret Garden
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Secret Garden, Cork's enchanting night club offering unforgettable experiences and lively entertainment.
Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork, where inclusivity meets electrifying entertainment.
Voodoo Rooms
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cork at Voodoo Rooms, where eclectic music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.
Eclipse Nightclub
1.6 km
Discover Cork's nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, a premier disco club with electrifying music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable experiences.
Dali
1.8 km
Experience Cork's nightlife at Dali Nightclub, where music and energy collide in an unforgettable evening of fun and dancing.
The Crane Lane Theatre
1.8 km
Experience Cork's vibrant nightlife at The Crane Lane Theatre, where live music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere await.
The Bishopstown Bar & Restaurant
2.1 km
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Angels Cork t/a The Asylum Bar
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cork at The Asylum Bar, where entertainment meets a classy and casual atmosphere.
ExpressDjs
49.7 km
ExpressDJs offers top-notch DJ services for any event in Ireland, ensuring unforgettable musical experiences tailored to your celebrations.
The Hiland
49.9 km
Discover electrifying nights at The Hiland, Co. Cork's top nightclub with dazzling lights, multiple dance floors, and vibrant nightlife.
Tanyard
65.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Skibbereen at Tanyard, a lively bar offering a fantastic selection of drinks and live entertainment.
Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub
65.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Gortnaclohy at Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub, where great drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
The Hill Inn
66.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of The Hill Inn in Carrigeen, Co. Tipperary, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Jimmy Brien's Bar
72.3 km
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