University College Cork
College Rd, Cork, Ireland
Cork is home to University College Cork (UCC), one of Ireland’s top universities. Founded in 1845, UCC is known for its striking stone architecture, location near the banks of the River Lee, and as a destination for learning about Irish history and culture. Guided campus walking tours provide historical and cultural context around landmarks such as the Honan Chapel and the Crawford Observatory.
The basics
Guided tours of University College Cork last about 70 minutes, with no reservations required. Most visitors spend about two hours exploring UCC, combining a guided tour with a visit to the Visitor Services Store (stocking university merchandise and books), the Main Quadrangle, the arboretum, and more. Art lovers may want to visit The Glucksman, an on-campus gallery with exhibition spaces, a riverside café, and a stocked gift shop (admission is free; donations are welcome).
Things to know before you go
UCC is a top Cork landmark for history buffs and families seeking educational experiences.
Most of the university campus is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers; consult the college accessibility website for complete details.
Campus tours cost €5 for adults, €3 for children, and are free for children under 4.
Guided campus tours are offered seven days a week; wear flat, comfortable shoes for exploring UCC on foot.
How to get there
University College Cork is about 0.62 miles (1 kilometer) from the center of Cork, an approximately 20-minute walk. The main campus is set along Western Road and College Road, with Visitor Services located on the North Wing of the Main Quadrangle. Many visitors arrive here on foot or by bicycle. Parking is limited in the area, so public transportation is a good option (take the No. 205 bus to UCC College Road gate).
When to get there
Campus tours at UCC are offered throughout the year, seven days per week. Visitor Services is open 9am to 5pm, Monday through Saturday, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays (11am to 5pm). Confirm tour times ahead of your visit, but no advance reservations are required. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit Cork, but the spring and fall seasons—when campus is filled with students—are also great times of year to visit.
The Glucksman gallery
In addition to campus tours, one of the main draws to University College Cork is The Glucksman. This art gallery, open six days per week (closed on Mondays), is home to more than just exhibition spaces; it also offers lectures, workshops, screenings, and artist talks. Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday in the morning; book ahead to guarantee a space.
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