Cork
Ann on the Mary Elmes Bridge over the River Lee
Ireland’s second city, Cork sits mostly on an island with the River Lee flowing through to Cobh – its seaport – & then on to the sea.
Unfortunately the weather wasn’t good for our stay here. A small friendly city.
Left is the early 20th century Cork National Monument celebrating the long fight against British rule. Above is the imposing City Court House. Right is the busy English Market, great for lunch.
St Anne’s Church in Shandon has great views over the city (on a clear day). Not only can you climb up to the top – a bit of a squeeze in places – but you can also ring the Shandon Bells by pulling the numbered bell ropes.
We visited the (surprisingly) interesting nearby Butter Museum. In the 19th century this was the world’s largest butter market, exporting butter throughout the British Empire. The round building in the centre of the above photo is the Firkin Crane, site of the original Butter Market.
We stayed in the pleasant Metropole Hotel, where they offered a Prosecco afternoon Tea with the room – Ann didn’t object
