When in Cork city, Ireland, make sure you stop off at the Cork City Gaol - a 19th century prison, which depicts what life in jail was like for women prisoners in Cork from pre famine times to the civil war times.

Step back in time to experience gaol conditions from the past centuries. Cork City Gaol founded in the 1840′s is complete with grim corridors, iron stair cases, barred windows and many cells with original graffiti on the walls. A must-see attraction, the cells contain life size models and sound effects. From the outside, Cork City Gaol does not look like a prison - one could be mistaken for thinking that it’s actually a castle - an outstanding piece of Georgian/Gothic architecture - this building certainly holds true to the saying “appearances are deceiving”.

A number of famous people have been incarcerated in Cork City Gaol, for example, Denny Lane (Young Irelanders), John Sarsfield Casey - “The Galtee Boy” (Fenians), Hannah Reynolds (Land League), Frank O’Connor (Civil War) and Countess Markievicz.

The Gaol tour is in 8 different languages. Personal guided tours and audio - guided tours are available as well as an audio visual display at the end. Need a venue with a difference for that corporate function or special occasion - then the West Wing of Cork City Gaol will indeed be an unforgettable setting.

How to get there:

The Cork City Gaol is located in Convent Avenue in Sunday’s Well, which is about 2km from Patrick Street - Cork city’s main thoroughfare. You could walk there from the city centre in about 20 minutes or take the open top bus tour directly to its doors.
The prison is located on a hill with superb views of the city, so if you’re walking to here - wear flat shoes!

Read more about this intriguing attraction - The Cork City Gaol.

If you’re looking for accommodation check out Cork city hotels Ireland.

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