Kinsale is a town on the southern coast of Ireland, in County Cork. Two 17th-century fortresses overlook the River Bandon: the vast, star-shaped Charles Fort to the southeast, and the smaller James Fort on the river's opposite bank. The 16th-century courthouse building houses the Kinsale Regional Museum, with a variety of displays on local history and information about the 1915 sinking of the RMS Lusitania. ― Google
Population: 5,991 (2022)
Eircode routing key: P17
Elevation: 10 m (30 ft)
Irish Grid Reference: W637506
Province: Munster
Telephone area code: +353(0)21
May to September: Warmest and sunniest months; perfect for walking, boating, and dining outdoors.
October: Great for food lovers during the Kinsale Gourmet Festival.
Off-season (Nov–Mar): Quieter, but some restaurants may be closed.
From Cork City: 30–40 minutes by car or direct bus (Bus Éireann #226).
From Dublin: ~3.5 hours by car or via train to Cork, then bus to Kinsale.
A 17th-century star-shaped fort with coastal views; key to understanding Kinsale's military history.
Older and more rustic than Charles Fort; across the harbor with lovely walking paths.
A dramatic headland offering spectacular cliff views (note: the famous golf course is private, but there's a public coastal path nearby).
16th-century castle turned into a museum about wine, trade, and prison history.
Ideal for sailing, kayaking, or simply strolling by the water.
Walking tours – Learn about the town’s role in the Spanish Armada, pirate lore, and the Battle of Kinsale.
Sea kayaking – Paddle into caves and along the cliffs with a local guide.
Golf – Kinsale has beautiful courses, including the world-renowned Old Head Golf Links (advance booking required).
Sailing & boat trips – Explore the coast or take a harbor cruise.
Shopping – Boutiques for art, crafts, and fashion.
Food tours or cooking classes – Some local chefs offer immersive experiences.
Luxury:
Perryville House – Elegant Georgian manor in the town center.
Actons Hotel – Historic hotel with spa facilities and harbor views.
Mid-range:
Blue Haven Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel with live music and dining.
Trident Hotel – Waterfront views and comfort.
Budget:
Kinsale Holiday Village – Self-catering apartments.
B&Bs like Danabel or Rockview – Friendly, cozy, and central.
Kinsale is considered the Gourmet Capital of Ireland:
Fishy Fishy – Famous for fresh seafood and modern Irish cuisine.
Max’s – French-influenced fine dining with local ingredients.
The Black Pig – Excellent wine bar with small plates.
Jim Edwards – Great for traditional pub fare.
The Bulman Bar (near Charles Fort) – Award-winning food with harbor views.
Deep maritime and military roots – once one of Ireland’s most important ports.
Strong artistic and culinary communities – known for galleries, craft shops, and food festivals.
Kinsale celebrates Irish traditions but with a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Frequent live music in pubs and restaurants, especially in summer.