DAY TRIP: COBH
Cobh (pronounced “Cove”) is a town in County Cork, about a 30-minute drive from Cork City. As a seaport town, it offers stunning coastal views, as well as darling spots to enjoy on land! I highly recommend a visit to Cobh, and here is how I would spend one day in this area:
Start your day by parking at the car park by St. Colman’s Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church that was once called Queenstown Cathedral (as the town of Cobh was called Queenstown from 1849 to 1920 after Queen Victoria). The cathedral showcases neo-Gothic architecture and is one of the tallest churches in Ireland, thanks to its 100-metre-tall spire. You might have seen a photo of St. Colman’s Cathedral without even realizing, because it is the backdrop of our very popular next stop: the “Deck of Cards” houses.
St. Colman’s Cathedral
In fact, many people flock to Cobh just to see these colorful homes! The houses consist of a row of residential homes which got their name as each house resembles a house of cards. The houses are painted fun colors, and it is a lovely sight to see! The best spot to take a photo of the Deck of Cards houses is from Spy Hill. However, unless you are VERY tall, it is quite difficult to get the shot. This is due to the very high wall in your way, and I absolutely do not recommend climbing this wall. Thus, the safest place to take a photo of the Deck of Cards is from West View Park, just across the street from the houses.
some of the Deck of Cards houses, with St. Colman’s Cathedral in the background
Once you have taken the perfect postcard photo of the Deck of Cards houses, make your way to John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, named after the famous US president who visited the area in 1963. This park has a playground, antique canons, bathrooms, and plenty of benches to enjoy the lovely views of the harbor! Consider grabbing coffee or a light bite from Seasalt Café and eating it on the promenade as you watch boats go by.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Park
Next, walk over to the Cobh Heritage Centre. Here you can learn about the maritime and emigration history of Cobh, as well as your personal genealogical records if you have Irish ancestry! Please note that if you would like to work with the Cobh Heritage Centre’s genealogist on staff, I recommend booking a session in advance by contacting the centre through email or phone.
On your way out of the Cobh Heritage Centre, do not miss the statue of Annie Moore and her siblings. Annie left Ireland from Cobh and was the first immigrant to pass through Ellis Island on January 1, 1892. She then lived on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, married a baker, and had 11 children. The bronze sculpture commemorates her journey, and the hope many immigrants like Annie had shared as they sought a new life in the New World. Fun fact: you can see a second statue of her if you head to Ellis Island in the United States!
Annie Moore Monument
We hope you enjoy Cobh as much as we did!
