Charles Fort Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore a 17th-century star-shaped fort with harbor views, key to Irish military history, in Kinsale, County Cork.

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Charles Fort

A brief summary of Charles Fort

Explore a 17th-century star-shaped fort with harbor views, key to Irish military history, in Kinsale, County Cork.

Charles Fort, a star-shaped military fortress constructed in the late 17th century, stands guard over Kinsale Harbour in County Cork. Named after King Charles II, this impressive structure offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland's military past and stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

4.7 Excellent · 3,566 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day10 am–5 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
OPW, Summercove, Kinsale, Co. Cork
Phone
Website

Getting there

Walking

From the center of Kinsale, the walk to Charles Fort is approximately 2.3 km and takes around 30 minutes. Follow the coastal road east from Kinsale, passing the Bulman Bar. Continue along the Scilly Walk, enjoying the views of the harbor. The fort is signposted and is located in Summercove. There are no costs associated with walking.

Public Transport

From Cork City, take the Bus Éireann Route 226 to Kinsale. This hourly service also stops at Cork Airport and Cork Kent Rail Station. From Kinsale, Local Link Cork operates the 253 bus to Charles Fort. The bus departs from Kinsale four times a day, and the journey takes approximately 10 minutes. A taxi from Kinsale to Charles Fort costs approximately €7-€10.

Driving

From Kinsale town center, follow the R600 east for approximately 1.5km. Turn right onto Ardbrack Heights, where Charles Fort is signposted. The fort is 2.4km up this road. There is a free car park located near the fort. Parking is also available at The Terrace Charles Fort. During peak times, a free car park near St. Multose Church provides an alternative option approximately 10 minutes’ walk from the fort. There are no toll roads on this route.

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Overview

Perched on the cliffs overlooking Kinsale Harbour, Charles Fort is a remarkable example of a 17th-century star-shaped military fortress. Constructed between 1677 and 1682, during the reign of King Charles II, it was designed by William Robinson to protect the town and harbor of Kinsale. The fort played a role in key moments in Irish history, including the Williamite War in 1690 and the Irish Civil War of 1922-23.Charles Fort, sometimes referred to historically as the "new fort", to contrast with James' Fort (the "old fort") which had been built on the other side of Kinsale harbour before 1607. The fort boasts five bastions, with the Devil's and Charles' bastions facing the sea to defend the harbor. Visitors can explore the fort's extensive grounds, including ruined barracks and the exhibition center, to learn about its history.Visitors can enjoy guided tours and multilingual guidebooks are available. From the fort's walls and ramparts, visitors can enjoy views of Kinsale Harbour. Charles Fort is a National Monument and is managed by the Office of Public Works.

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