Cork boasts a variety of unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences that extend beyond traditional tourist attractions. Whether you’re into adrenaline-filled adventures, creative pursuits, or immersive cultural activities, Cork has something truly special to offer
1. Escape Room: An Exciting Challenge
Location: 36 Mary Street, Cork (T12X20T)
For those who enjoy problem-solving and teamwork, Cork’s escape rooms offer an exhilarating challenge. Step into a themed room where you and your team must unravel puzzles, find hidden clues, and escape before time runs out. Themes range from mystery adventures to high-stakes heists, making this a perfect outing for friends, families, or colleagues looking for a unique bonding experience.
2. Indoor Go Karting: High-Speed Fun
Location: The Marina (T12H59R)
For thrill-seekers, indoor go-karting is a fantastic way to let off some steam and embrace a little competition. Set along the scenic Marina, this facility offers high-quality karts, a challenging track, and all the gear needed for a safe yet adrenaline-pumping experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned racer, this activity promises excitement and fun.
3. Pottery Classes: Creative Expression in Shandon
Location: Shandon (T23 D76V)
Unleash your inner artist with a pottery class in the charming Shandon neighborhood. Learn the art of shaping, molding, and glazing clay while creating your own ceramic masterpiece. Suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike, these classes provide a relaxing, hands-on way to engage with Cork’s artistic community. The sessions are as therapeutic as they are creative.
4. Axe Throwing: A Unique and Thrilling Activity
Location: T12AE4X
Test your strength and precision with axe throwing, a fast-growing recreational activity that’s as exhilarating as it is satisfying. In a safe and controlled environment, participants learn the proper techniques to hit targets with accuracy. It’s a great way to blow off steam, challenge friends, and try something completely out of the ordinary.
5. Culinary Delights at the English Market
Location: Grand Parade, Cork City
A trip to the historic English Market is a must for food lovers. Dating back to 1788, this market is a hub of local produce, artisanal foods, and unique culinary treasures. Browse stalls offering everything from fresh seafood and cheeses to handmade chocolates and traditional Irish breads. It’s a feast for the senses and a great place to meet local vendors and experience Cork’s food culture.
6. Shandon Bells: Ring Out Across the City
Location: St. Anne’s Church, Shandon
One of Cork’s most iconic experiences, ringing the Shandon Bells at St. Anne’s Church offers visitors a chance to leave their mark on the city—quite literally. After climbing the church tower and enjoying panoramic views of Cork, you can ring the bells yourself, creating your own melody to echo across the city. It’s a uniquely interactive way to connect with Cork’s history and charm.
Maximize Your School Experience
Practical Language Skills
Classes are designed to provide you with the practical skills needed for real-life settings. Use what you Learn in class everyday while out and about exploring Cork.
Sign-up for Workshops
The school holds 2 free workshops every week. Language Workshops: Pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary and Personal Development Workshops: CV building, cover letter and interview skills.
Sign-up for Social Activities
Benefit from cultural and social activities organized by the school, giving you more opportunities to practice English outside the classroom while exploring Cork and Irish culture.
Courses
Whether you’re looking to improve your language skills for personal, professional, or Academic purposes, our courses in Cork city are the perfect choice.
General English Courses
English language courses designed to provide you with the practical skills needed for real-life settings.
Work and Study Courses
Courses suitable for students who need to formalize their stay in Ireland for Stamp 2 Immigration purposes.
IELTS Academic
Course
This IELTS Academic Course measures whether your English is suitable for an academic environment.
Places to Study in Cork
Top Places to Study
Looking for a quiet spot to focus, Cork offers plenty of excellent study locations.
Late Places to Study
Continue studying with friends after the school closes at 17:00, by exploring these late opening study-friendly spots.
Early Places to Study
Check out these near-by early opening cafes if waiting for the school to open at 08:30.
Explore Your New Home
Studying English in Cork isn’t just about learning a language – it’s about becoming part of a community, experiencing life in Ireland, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Get out there, meet new friends and practice your English.
Gyms in Cork
Offering Pay-as-you-go and discounts ideal for students.
Cork Parkruns
A free, weekly, 5km timed run with 3 locations around Cork city.
Volunteer Cork
Make connections and practice your English through volunteering.
Hotspots in Cork
Check out Cork’s favorite cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Parks in Cork
Parks, green spaces and river walkways dotted around the city center and neighboring suburbs.
Beaches in Cork
Here are some of our favorite beaches near Cork City.
Places of Interest
Ring the Shandon Bells in the 300-year-old tower of St. Anne’s Church, and marvel at the French Gothic spires of St. Finbarre’s Cathedral.
Festivals in Cork
Festivals to cater for all tastes, with events in performance and visual arts, choral singing, comedy, film, folk music, jazz, literature, writing, and traditional music.
Discover Cork
Your ideal City for Learning English. Cork’s locals are warm, approachable, and always ready for a chat—perfect for practicing your English skills.
How to Guides
Check out these How-To Guides, designed to help you navigate life in a new city with ease.
Apply for a Leap Card
How to apply for a discount student bus ticket (leap card).
Apply for a Stamp 2
How to apply for an IRP/Stamp 2 (suitable for non Eu students)
Rent a Room
How to find your own accommodation in Cork.
Prepare for the Weather
How to stay warm and dry. Seasonal tips and general temperatures.
How to Budget
How to budget – Compared to larger cities like Dublin, Cork offers a more affordable cost of living.
Apply for a Job
How to apply for a job – jobs websites and Jobs Club.
Essential Apps for Life in Cork
The Transport apps are very useful if you end up living outside of the city center for example with host family.
TFI Go App
Perfect for paying for bus and train fares on-the-go.
TFI Live App
Real-time information about public transport in Cork.
Bike Share App
Rent a bike and easily explore the city.
Cork Safety Alerts
Stay ahead of the traffic, and weather. Get push notifications for your area of Cork.
Weather App
Met Éireann, the Irish National Meteorological Service, is the leading provider of weather information for Ireland.
Revolut Bank App
Manage your finances easily with this online bank.
Setting up a local Irish bank account is recommended if you’re staying in Ireland for a longer time.
Local Websites
Check out these websites for local information, events, and community connections.
Craving Cork
A guide to Cork’s best restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Tripe + Drisheen
Independent News from across Cork city and county.
Pure Cork
Discover top tourist attractions and things to do around the city.
