Red Abbey Tower: A Medieval Echo in Cork
Explore Cork's medieval past at the Red Abbey Tower, the city's only surviving structure from the walled town era, offering a glimpse into history.
The Red Abbey Tower, a striking red sandstone remnant of a 13th-century Augustinian friary, stands as a silent witness to Cork's medieval past. Overlooking a small square in Ballintemple, it's the city's only surviving medieval structure, offering a glimpse into the architecture and history of the walled town of Cork.
A brief summary to Red Abbey Tower
- Red Abbey St, Cork, Ballintemple, IE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the tower's red sandstone facade, especially during the golden hour for stunning photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely want to explore the surrounding historic neighborhoods on foot.
- Check out nearby cafes and eateries to enjoy local pastries and soak in the historic ambiance.
Getting There
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Walking
From Cork City center, the Red Abbey Tower is accessible by foot. A walk from the city center to Ballintemple is approximately 2.8km and takes around 34 minutes. Head east along the River Lee, following Victoria Road (R618). Red Abbey Street, where the tower is located, will be on your left.
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Public Transport
From Cork City center, Bus Éireann operates frequent bus services to Ballintemple. Several bus routes, including the 202, 202A, 212, and 215A, stop near the Red Abbey Tower. These buses can be caught from Albert Road. A single bus fare within the city zone is approximately €1.90 in cash or €1.35 with a Leap card. The bus journey takes approximately 5 minutes.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Cork City center. A taxi from the city center to the Red Abbey Tower in Ballintemple typically takes around 3 minutes. The estimated fare for this short trip ranges from €9 to €11. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
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