Charles Fort
About the Business
Located in the picturesque County Cork town of Kinsale, Charles Fort is an institution that captures the essence of Ireland's rich history and culture. This impressive star-shaped military stronghold, constructed in the 17th century, sits atop the strategically important Great Island, overlooking the mouth of the River Bandon.
A visit to Charles Fort is a must for any history buff or tourist looking for a unique and fascinating experience. From its inception during the Williamite War to its role as a British military stronghold and, later, a site of Irish Republican Army activity during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War, Charles Fort has witnessed an array of significant historical events over the centuries.
Visitors to the fort are invited to explore its sprawling grounds and view the various architectural features, including bastions, barracks, and powder magazines, that make it such an impressive feat of engineering. The surrounding scenery offers breathtaking views of the Irish coast and the Atlantic Ocean, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors to take in as they immerse themselves in the history of this venerable institution.
In addition to its historical significance, Charles Fort is also a cultural landmark, having been the subject of numerous poems and songs over the years. Art displays and artful statues around the premises celebrate the fort's connection to the maritime trade, Irish history and its cultural significance.
A visit to Charles Fort is an experience not to be missed for anyone interested in Ireland's rich cultural heritage or the history of military fortifications. With its stunning natural surroundings and impressive architectural features, this institution is an unforgettable tourist attraction that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Photos
Location & Phone number
OPW, Summercove, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland
Hours open
Monday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday:
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Reviews
"One of the best experiences I had during my time in Ireland. The fort is easy enough to get to, easy parking - the town of Kinsale is a must visit too. Plan for an hour as the fort is quite large, but there is a coffee shop if you need a pick me up. Tons of history surrounding the fort to take in, but one of the best parts was simply the views beyond the fort walls. Prime spots to take panoramas of the Irish coast, and if you're lucky it will be a sunny day!"
"An impressive structure guarding the entrance to the bay. James Fort is on the other side of the bay in Kinsale. Charles fort is by far the more impressive if the 2 as it's still in very good condition. James Fort you are free to enter , Charles fort there is an entrance fee. We also took a walk around Charles fort so we could see it from a distance and get some good pictures over the water , it's very impressive and worth a visit. Parking is right at the entrance"
"Well worth the €5. It was much larger than expected with lots of different sections. You really have free reign to roam the whole grounds. There are a few rooms with looped educational videos running and a few artifacts from the fort’s history. Perhaps the best part of it though is the views of Kinsale, the harbor, the rolling green hills, and the ocean out in the distance. Plenty of sail boats when we were there, and even a rainbow over Kinsale town. Try to go on a clear day! (Oh, there are nice clean bathrooms too)"
"Amazing views all around the fort. The staff were so friendly to us. Me and my parents really loved it. It includes a nice museum and exposition inside so you can read and learn a bit about the fort history."
"Amazing fort. You can't imagine how big and beautiful it is until you cross the entrance door. Breathtaking views of the buildings with the sea as a background. You can spend some good time walking around them and taking lovely pictures."
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