Walks
Cork is quite an easy and scenic city to explore. Therefore, we’re delighted to introduce our walking trails, which will take you through the city so that you can explore the richness of Cork’s history and geology at your leisure. We welcome your feedback on these trails to help us improve them.
You can access the Google Earth links below to navigate the City using the maps there.
Whichever route you choose, be safe out there. We can't take responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone who may explore these places. These trails are merely here to inform you of places with local cool geology and history!
How to use the walks:
- Get the app Google Earth from App Store or Google Play – accessing these links from your smartphone.
- Install the app on your smartphone.
- Click on one of the trails below and allow it to open in Google Earth.
Northside Walk
The first of the city walks will explore the north side of the River Lee. The Old Red Sandstone dominates the foundation of this part of the city, and therefore this area is more hilly.
This is because sandstone is more resistant against being broken down by weather and water than limestone is. So therefore, the Old Red Sandstone areas have higher terrain than the limestone areas. This includes St Luke’s Cross and Wellington Road which this walk will take you through.
Southside Walk
The second of our walks goes through Cork’s city centre. South of the River Lee, the area’s foundation is mostly dominated by limestone.
This walk is considerably shorter and easier than the Northside walk, but not necessarily less interesting. It shows you some of Cork’s famous landmarks, and more importantly: beautiful rocks!
City Centre Walk
Cork’s city centre is full of reminders of Cork’s ancient and recent past. Venture on a city trail that will encourage you to see the city in a new way.
UCC Walk
University College Cork or UCC is comprised of many iconic buildings and monuments.
However, there are also several geological gems to discover while you are there. Whether you're a student or a visitor, this tour will help you discover some of these.
Quarry Walk
Get a glimpse of the city’s now disused limestone and Old Red Sandstone quarries. These sites were once parts of busy industries that supplied the city with its iconic red and white walls and monuments.