Exploring the Majestic Charles Fort: A Historical Gem
Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views at Charles Fort, a stunning coastal fortress in Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland.
Charles Fort, located in the picturesque coastal town of Kinsale, County Cork, is a remarkable 17th-century star-shaped fortress. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland's military past while providing stunning views of the harbor and surrounding landscapes. With its well-preserved structures and rich history, Charles Fort is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
A brief summary to Charles Fort
- OPW, Kinsale, Summercove, Co. Cork, IE
- +353214772263
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the fort's terrain can be uneven.
- Check for any reenactment events taking place during your visit for a more immersive experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Kinsale harbor.
- Visit the fort in the late afternoon for breathtaking sunset views.
Getting There
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Car
From Mizen Head, take the N71 road heading northeast towards Skibbereen. Continue on the N71 for approximately 20 kilometers until you reach the junction with the R586. Turn right onto the R586 and follow the road until you reach Kinsale. As you approach Kinsale, keep an eye out for signs for Charles Fort. The fort is located at Summercove, just a short drive from the town center. Follow the signs and park in the designated parking area near the entrance. Note that parking may incur a small fee.
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Public Transportation
From Mizen Head, you will need to take a bus to Skibbereen first. Check the local bus schedule for the best connections. Once in Skibbereen, transfer to a bus heading towards Kinsale. The journey will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Kinsale, you can either walk to Charles Fort, which is about a 30-minute walk from the bus stop, or take a local taxi for a quicker option. Ensure to check the return bus schedule in advance to plan your trip back.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can arrange for a taxi from Mizen Head to Charles Fort. This option will provide you with a comfortable and efficient mode of transport, taking approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure to confirm the fare with the taxi driver beforehand to avoid any surprises. This option is particularly useful if you are traveling in a group.
Discover more about Charles Fort
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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James Fort Blockhouse
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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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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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Long Quay house
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Dinos
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The Old Bank Townhouse Kinsale
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Unmissable attractions to see
James Fort
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Dock Beach
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Kinsale 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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Galleon Mast
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Kinsale Town Park
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Humphrey Murphy Memorial Park
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Kinsale Mead Co.
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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
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Kinsale Food Tours
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Essential places to dine
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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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Chaac
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FatFace
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Firkail
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The Beer Garden
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