Local Attractions
Castle Farm is an ideal base to tour the area. Please take time to visit the many wonderful places on our doorstep.
We will be happy to assist with any queries and provide expert knowledge on the local area.
East Cork offers many stunning beaches (including the blue flag beach
at Garryvoe), gardens and golf courses within easy reach of Castle
Farm.
The area is also renowned for its bird-watching. From
Knockadoon Head to Ballycotton, varieties such as the Pale-Bellied
Brent Goose, Hen Harrier and the Short-Toed Lark can be seen. Definitely a birdwatchers heaven .
For walking enthusiasts, there is a wide diversity of trails to be discovered, including forest walks at Castlemartyr and Glenbower and a cliff walk in Ballycotton.
Youghal
Youghal
is an historic walled town steeped in centuries of history. Take a
visit to the Visitor Centre who provide very informative guided tours.
The town was once home to Sir. Walter Raleigh (who first brought the
potato and tobacco to Ireland) and Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of East Cork,
and it has been well documented that Edmund Spencer wrote part of the
poem “The Faerie Queene” in Youghal.
Tynte’s Castle is also a worthwhile visit, and it has been reported,
that Tynte was also the owner of Ballycrenane Castle located on the
grounds of Castle Farm. The 11th Century Collegiate Church, the Clock
Gate which dates from 1777 and the Benedictine Priory also have their
own fascinating stories to tell.
The Clock Gate in Youghal showcasing 700 years is well worth a visit.
You can avail of guided tours where their storytellers will take you
through the journey of the Tower in a bygone era.
In 1954, part of the film Moby Dick was filmed in Youghal.
Midleton
Midleton is a vibrant town located 12 miles from our bed and breakfast. We would recommend a visit to the following:
The Jameson Experience – Old Midleton Distillery
Established in the early 17th Century, it is one of the largest
producers of whiskey in Ireland, producing brands such as Jameson,
Powers, Tullamore Dew, Paddy and Midleton Very Rare. With a production
capacity of 19 million litres, being the largest in the world, a visit
is recommended, where you can learn how the produce is made, and be in
with a chance to obtain a certificate for whiskey tasting.
Farmers’ market
Midleton farmers’ market meets every Saturday morning from 9am to 1pm
and offers a selection of quality produce such as breads, preserves,
cheeses and organic vegetables.
Cobh
Cobh has many attractions to offer. Cobh (pronounced Cove) was the main port of emigration during the Great Famine and the statue of Annie Moore, the first emigrant to disembark at Elis Island stands here.
The town also hosts the beautiful 19th Century, St. Colman’s Cathedral.
The Titanic
The Titanic’s last port of call was at Cobh and the Titanic museum recalls the last movements of both this ship and the Lusitania. Another option to follow the final moments is by taking a walking tour of the town.
Fota Wildlife Park
Fota Wildlife Park is only a short drive from Castle Farm B&B, this is a great place for a family day out – www.fotawildlife.ie
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle situated approx 30 miles from our home was built nearly 600 years ago. According to legend, the stone of Eloquence is found at the top of the tower. As they say “Kiss it and you’ll never be lost for words”. And the grounds around the castle offer spectacular gardens.
Cork City
A trip to Cork City is a must. Voted as one of the
Lonely Planet Top 10 cities to visit in 2010, the city has so much to
offer. There are numerous attractions from the delightful Cork Butter
Museum, Cork City Goal and the Shandon Bells.Follow in the Queen of
England’s footsteps and visit the renowned English market.
Ballycotton
For
those who like more active holidays, why not take in the beautiful
views of Ballycotton Bay and lighthouse, whilst taking a walk along the
cliff.
You can also explore Ballycotton Island and get a tour of the lighthouse through Ballycotton Island Tours.
Ballycotton forms part of the bird-watching trail beginning in
Knockadoon, and has been identified internationally as a home to many
unique birds.
Day trips
Castle Farm is situated in an ideal location for taking day trips. Some suggestions are listed below;
Waterford
This city is the oldest city in Ireland, and was
established by the Vikings. Take a tour of the city, visit the world
famous crystal factory and see the Edmund Spencer Rice International
Heritage Centre.
Kilkenny
Why not travel a bit further and visit the beautiful
castle in Kilkenny, and return home over the Knockmealdown mountains
where you will be able to see five of the counties of Munster.
Killarney
You can travel west and see some of the amazing sites Killarney has to offer including the lakes, the Gap of Dunloe and Muckross House.