August in Kinsale is late-summer at its best—fresh coastal air, long daylight hours, and that unmistakable Irish charm. Expect long days with temperatures typically ranging from the 65–75°F (around 18–22°C), possibly some humidity, with cooler evenings by the sea. Like anywhere on Ireland’s coast, there’s always a chance of a light, passing shower!

What to pack:

Layers (light sweaters or jackets)

Comfortable walking shoes

A light rain jacket or umbrella

Something warm for evenings by the coast

The good news: rainy days in August tend to be warm rather than cold, and the scenery stays green and beautiful no matter what!

Kids under the age of 18 are allowed in pubs (with adult supervision) until 9pm but cannot be served alcohol.

Tipping culture isn't the same in Ireland as the US, but some places do prompt for it now. You don’t need to tip for things like coffee, drinks, or lunch, but you might for a nice sit down meal in a restaurant (approx. 10%).

Some restaurants and activities may be closed on Mondays and Tuesday - especially in smaller towns. It’s worth checking opening hours before you go!

The English Market

Cork may be Ireland's second largest city, but it's number one in our hearts! Here are some highlights of the city for your visit:

Locations and Activities

English Market - Indoor food market located in the city centre that has been officially trading since 1788. It's a great place to get food and just walk about.

Nano Nagel Place - This cute heritage museum is about a 10 minute walk from the city centre. It's a good spot for lunch with a beautiful garden and information on Nano Nagle.

Food Tour - Cork has a great food scene so get out there, make some new friends, and enjoy some tasty bites!

Cork City Gaol (aka Cork City Jail) - This is a heritage museum that shows what life in 19th and early 20th century Cork was like. The Gaol (i.e., Jail) is about a 35-40 minute walk from the city, uphill, but has great views over the city.

Shandon Bells - Built in 1722, the Church of St. Anne is one of the most important early 18th century churches in Ireland. Reached by a maze of winding streets, the church features a barreled, vaulted ceiling, colorful stained glass windows, and a stone baptismal font that dates from 1629. This is a bit of a trek uphill but has fantastic views of the city.

Blackrock Castle - Blackrock Castle is the oldest surviving structure still in use in the city of Cork. This historic castle has served as an Admiralty Court, a lighthouse, a signaling station, and a gun battery, defending the river approach to Cork. It is now an observary and science centre. There’s lots of parking and buses that will take you to Blackrock. There is also a really nice walk along the river from Marina Market to Blackrock Castle that’s about 4km. Here are the directions.

Jameson Distillery - Discover the history and taste some fine Jameson whiskey. The distillery is located in the town of Midleton and can be reached via car or train / bus.

Fota Wildlife Park - this is a great little wildlife park near the city. You can get there by train or car. There is also a golf course and a nice spa / hotel. Its a stop on the way to Cobh and a wonderful location for anyone travelling with kids!

Cobh - Cobh is a small town outside Cork. You can get the train or drive from Cork City. Cobh is now insta famous, but it was the last stop for the Titanic. There's an interesting exhibition. You can also go to Spike Island, which was a military fortress and notorious prison.

Blarney Castle - one of Cork’s most famous tourist activities. Legend has it, if you kiss the Blarney Stone, you will get the gift of the gab!

Food and Pubs

Hot Chicken Rolls - Not a specific place but a hot chicken roll is a must try in Ireland! It is essentially a baguette (or wrap) with breaded chicken (plain or spicy), mayo or condiment of choice and salad. You can get them at most deli counters in supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations, etc. The "Maebh Special" is a plain hot chicken with mayo, cheese, stuffing, sweetcorn, and coleslaw, but choose your own adventure!

Cork’s Food Scene

Mac Curtain Street - This is a great little street with lots of bars and spots to eat. We recommend checking out Sin E for some Irish music, too!

Cork’s Heritage Pubs - A collection of old pubs in the city (this is a self curated list, so there are other old pubs, too). The website also gives their live music schedule.

Long Valley Bar - They have a great sandwich if you are looking for lunch!

Market Lane - This restaurant does nice lunch and dinner while focusing on local suppliers. They accept walk-ins, but it can get busy!

Hi-B Bar - A great little old man pub in the heart of the city. They say no mobile phones allowed, although it may or may not be strictly enforced. Having a drink in there feels like being in someone’s living room - its a nice vibe!

Mutton Lane Inn - A nice little pub in the city for a drink.

Fast Als - Great pizza slices and highly recommended after a few pints.

Charles Fort

Kinsale is a colorful coastal town known for its food, charm, and postcard-worthy harbor views. It’s small, walkable, and full of personality—perfect for wandering, eating well, and slowing down a bit.

Kinsale is about 30 minutes from the Cork. The drive is pretty straightforward, and there are regular buses going back and forth from the city (via the airport!)

If you don’t have a car, here is a guide on a car free day in Kinsale (although you need a bike for some of the recs) - https://www.discoverireland.ie/cork/car-free-kinsale.

Here are somethings to do in / near Kinsale:

Walking Tours

Charles Fort - it's outside the town but close to the Kinsale Hotel and Spa.

Lusitania Museum & Old Head Tower

Boat Rides and Cruises

Also check out trip advisor