Things to Do in Kinsale: Forts, the Old Head and Food

Colorful facades, a marina, star-shaped fortresses, and renowned restaurants: Kinsale, Kinsale, about thirty minutes from Cork, is often described as the culinary capital of Ireland. It's also the southern starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way. Here's what to do in Kinsale and our recommendations. Based in the UK and Ireland since 2012, we include it in our tailor-made trips.

In short: In Kinsale, stroll through the colorful streets of the town center, visit Charles Fort, a 17th-century star-shaped fortress, and James Fort, then head to Old Head of Kinsale, off which the Lusitania sank in 1915. Don't miss the seafood restaurants. Allow a day, or even an overnight stay.

Things to do in Kinsale: the must-sees

The center and its colorful alleyways

The heart of Kinsale is best explored on foot: brightly painted houses, art galleries, independent shops and traditional pubs line up in alleyways that lead down to the port.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Things to do in Kinsale: forts, Old Head, and gastronomy "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

Your ideal coastal spot?

Cliffs and sweeping panoramasBeaches, harbors and small villages

Question 2 of 5

You're exploring instead…

On foot along a pathBy car with several stops

Question 3 of 5

Need a break?

A beautiful viewpointA cafe or pub by the water

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What appeals to you most?

The wild sideThe atmosphere of the villages

Question 5 of 5

The perfect end to the day?

A sunsetA good local dinner

Charles Fort

Built at the end of the 17th century, this star-shaped fortress overlooks the harbor entrance. Its ramparts offer superb views of the bay. A beautiful coastal promenade, the Scilly Walk, connects it to the town centre.

James Fort and the Battle of Kinsale

On the other side of the bay, James Fort serves as a reminder of the port's strategic importance. Indeed, it was near Kinsale that a decisive battle in Irish history took place in 1601.

Old Head of Kinsale

This spectacular cape juts out into the Atlantic, with its lighthouse and cliffs. It was off this coast that the ocean liner Lusitania was torpedoed in 1915; a small museum, housed in the former signal tower, recounts this event.

Gastronomy

Kinsale boasts numerous renowned restaurants, especially for their locally caught fish and seafood. Furthermore, the town hosts a food festival every autumn.

What is there to see around Kinsale?

• Cork, about 30 minutes away, with the English Market.
• Cobh, the Titanic's last port of call.
• Blarney Castle and its famous stone.
• The West Cork coast, start of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Read our guides What to do in Cork, The Wild Atlantic Way in 10 days and What to do in Killarney.

Our advice for visiting Kinsale

Plan at least one night in the area to enjoy the restaurants in the evening. In the morning, walk to Charles Fort via the Scilly Walk, then take the road to Old Head of Kinsale. Next, continue towards Kerry along the West Cork coast. For a complete, all-inclusive trip, check out our 7-day self-drive tour in Ireland. More information on Discover Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kinsale

How to get to Kinsale from Cork?

Allow approximately 30 minutes by car. Buses also connect Cork to Kinsale, including from the airport.

How long should I stay in Kinsale?

One day is enough for the city center and Charles Fort. However, an overnight stay allows you to enjoy the atmosphere and restaurants.

Is Kinsale worth the trip?

Yes, especially for lovers of gastronomy, colorful villages and coastal landscapes. It's one of the prettiest small towns in Ireland.

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