A great day in Cork

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Here we are, in Cork. We arrived yesterday afternoon, after a wee short flight from Edinburgh. So happy to be here. Cork is a beautiful city and the weather is splendid! Couldn't be better, sunny and 21 celsius.

We are staying at the Hayfield Manor, a charming place with lovely accommodations and beautiful manicured grounds. Thanks to our friend Pat Murphy for the recommendation. I must say that after spending five days on a train, in somewhat closed quarters, albeit very comfortable, the Manor feels quite grandiose.

We spent the day walking and exploring the city. It is quite easy to get around and very walkable.  Around noon, we decided to get on the Hop On/Hop Off bus to see more of what Cork has to offer. Our first stop was in the quaint neighbourhood of Shandon with its landmark clock tower of St-Anne's Church. As any tourist normally does, I got to ring the bells of Shandon to the tune of "Frere Jacques". Kind of cool!

We walked along St-Patrick's Street, a main shopping drag. We also went through the English Market, which resembles the St-Lawrence Market in Toronto, amazing fresh produce, fish, meats, etc. Took a peak at the Winthrop Arcade, an interesting retail spot. We walked along the beautiful River Lee. Just a few of the places we saw today. We had a late lunch, sat outside watching the Irish world go by. Quite nice.

It's been a wonderful day and we are a bit tired...not so much from walking but from the sun. I'm afraid Russell bought his Irish pea cap a little too late this afternoon. He has a bit of a sunburn on his head. Not good.

We will spend the next two days visiting the country side of Cork. We have two private tours lined up to visit areas such as Blarney, Kinsale, Midleton, Killarney and the Ring of Kerry. Looking forward to it.

I leave you with just a few pics of today. More when we return to Canada. Also, I plan to write more about our train trip when we get home. There is so much I want to say about it but I need time to digest it all.

So long, until the next update!

A nice reflection

Hayfield Manor...a splendid place, elegant and refined!

St.Anne's Church....

...me ringing the St.Anne Church bells to a familiar tune!

Every city has one...the Cork wedge!