Charles Fort: A Bastion of History in Kinsale
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.
A brief summary to Charles Fort
- OPW, Kinsale, Summercove, Co. Cork, IE
- +353214772263
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear suitable footwear due to the uneven terrain within the fort.
- Check the weather forecast, as the coastal location can be exposed to the elements.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the fort and enjoy the views.
- Consider walking the scenic Scilly Walk from Kinsale town to the fort.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Charles Fort
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Bulman Bar & Restaurant Kinsale
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James Fort Blockhouse
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Kinsale Beach
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Trident Hotel Kinsale
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The Spaniard Inn
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Man Friday
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Kinsale Harbour Cruises
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Galleon Mast
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Actons Hotel Kinsale
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The Black Pig
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Gairdín Féileacán agus Clós Súgartha
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War of Independence Memory Stone
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Fishy Fishy Kinsale
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The Flying Poet Aviation Café - Coffee, Food, and Wine
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Kinsale Mead Co.
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Unmissable attractions to see
James Fort
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Dock Beach
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Kinsale War Memorial
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P&S Place
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Scilly Bog
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Kinsale Town Park
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Humphrey Murphy Memorial Park
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Historic Stroll Kinsale Walking Tours
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kinsale heritage.com
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Kinsale Tourist Information Centre
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Dermot Ryan's Kinsale Heritage Town Walks
1.8 km
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Kinsale Food Tours
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Ringfinnan Garden of Rememberance
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Kinsale
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The White House Kinsale
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Essential places to dine
Shirley's - Fish & Chips, Kinsale
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The Dock Bar
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Wharf Tavern
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Food U
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The White Lady Restaurant
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Pizza
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No. 19 Restaurant
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Pier Road Social
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Sidneys Bar & Brasserie
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Sigarca Limited
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Bruno's Italian Eatery
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Max's Seafood Kinsale
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Caramico Kinsale
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I Monsu Market
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Macdonald hotel
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
jane
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Lidl
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Lindas Of Kinsale
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Rain Kinsale
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Kinsale Leather
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Koko Kinsale
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Kinsale Sports Store
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J Cronin & Company Limited
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Chaac
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FatFace
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Boland Gift Shop & Crafts
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Firkail
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Scilly Art
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Darby’s Den
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Oscar Madisons
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Sams Bar
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The Grey Hound
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The Market Bar
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The Tap Tavern
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O'Sullivans Bar & Restaurant, Douglas
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South County
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The Beer Garden
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Gaia
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Coughlans Bar
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The Silly Goose
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub
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The Hiland
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ExpressDjs
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Hackett's Bar
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