Cork

Sometimes referred to as the ‘real capital of Ireland’ Cork is a lively riverfront city that balances old and new perfectly. Think snug pubs with local live bands playing into the wee hours. Locals would argue the Irish foodie scene is centred here. and we would agree. This accolade is largely down to the 19th-century English market, which is well worth a visit for some nibbles. In equal measures, the Cork coffee scene has boomed with a Cork Coffee Weekend for local roasters every January. The new Cork is miles from the city’s rebel past, the history of which you can learn about with a visit to the Cork City Gaol (jail to you or I). To the south east of Cork is the pretty city of Cobh (pronounced Cove), the departure point for millions of Irish people who emigrated to North America between 1848 and 1950. It was also the final port of call for the Titanic. Strung across a steep hill, Cobh is filled with brightly coloured houses and is overlooked by the beautiful St. Colman’s Cathedral.