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Cork City Gaol

Cork City Gaol

4.6 (3,760 reviews)
History MuseumTourist AttractionMuseumPoint of InterestEstablishment

Best time to visit

Visit in the morning for quieter galleries and better photo lighting. Spring and autumn offer mild weather perfect for walking around outside the gaol.

Budget tips

Entry fees are modest, with discounts for students and seniors; plan your visit on free admission days to save. Look into combined tickets with nearby Cork attractions for more savings.

Recommended for

History buffs, Families with older children, Cultural explorers, Photography enthusiasts

Plan your visit

1-2 hours

About

Quick facts: Explore a former prison that once housed some of Ireland's toughest inmates. The eerie corridors echo stories of hardship and resilience that bring history alive.

Highlights: Step inside cells with original fittings and hear firsthand accounts through lifelike wax figures portraying daily prison life. Spot the infamous gallows room where justice was served, a chilling reminder of the past.

Insider tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you walk on old stone floors and uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a camera for dramatic shots of the cells and gallows room.
  • Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds, weekdays in the morning are best.
  • Listen to the audio guide for immersive storytelling that brings the prison's history to life.

Practical info

Opening hours

Directions

Official website

Book tours & tickets
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