Elizabeth Fort
- Premier host
- Cork, County Cork, Ireland
- See on map
- Sleeps: 3 per house
- Bedrooms: 2 per house
- Bathrooms: 1 per house
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
Elizabeth Fort is an oasis of calm in the heart of Cork City, and a captivating must-stay for anyone who dreams of occupying their very own fortress!
Named for Queen Elizabeth I, the original fort was built in 1601 and served both as a defensive structure and a symbol of English authority in Cork. It was re-built in stone and later modified by Oliver Cromwell, before becoming a military barracks, a Garda station, and an air raid shelter during World War Two.
Thoughtfully restored and managed by the Irish Landmark Trust, guests now have the opportunity to stay in a living piece of history, with a choice of two adjoining, individually self-contained retreats set within the fort’s star-shaped walls.
Named Garrison House and Parade House, each retreat sleeps up to three guests in one double and one single bedroom – ideal for a romantic couple or a small family looking for a sense of calm in the lively midst of Cork.
The décor throughout both retreats evoke a charming sense of times past, with a warming open fire in the cosy sitting room, vintage furnishings, and a radio to help you set a relaxed evening soundtrack.
Yet there are plenty of modern amenities too, including a contemporary kitchen with a microwave and dishwasher, and a walk-in shower cubicle (Garrison House) or shower over bath (Parade House) for morning freshen-ups. Linen and towels are helpfully provided, so you won’t need to overload your luggage.
Gaze out towards St. Finbar’s Cathedral with a steaming cuppa, or take in the evening sunshine with a chilled glass of wine in the furnished courtyard. As a much-loved tourist attraction, occasionally fun events will take place inside the fort (please check the property website for information) which could provide a welcome source of holiday entertainment!
Keep readingAt a glance
- Two adjoining, self-contained retreats set within the walls of the 17th century Elizabeth Fort in Cork City.
- Each retreat sleeps three guests in a double and single bedroom.
- There is a furnished courtyard for catching the sun, and a sitting room with a wood-burning stove to relax in on cooler evenings.
- There are several attractions within just a few minutes’ walk, including the iconic English Market and Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral.
Features
Family Friendly
Facilities
Per retreat: gas central heating, double and single bedroom, sitting room with wood-burning stove, radio, kitchen with double oven and ceramic hob, microwave, small dishwasher, fridge with icebox, washing machine, cooking utensils and equipment, bathroom with shower cubicle (Garrison House) or bathroom with shower over bath (Parade House), hairdryer, towels and linens provided, furnished courtyard.
Local activities
Walking, historic sites, castles, covered market, independent shops, cafés, museums, pubs, restaurants
More information
Otherwise, you’ll find plenty to see and do in just a few minutes’ walk of your chosen retreat. You could begin with a visit to Cork’s iconic, covered English Market, which has been trading since 1788 and is another fine example of a valued and architecturally significant heritage site.
Nano Nagle Place is a mere five-minute stroll away: a museum dedicated to the pioneering 18th century Irishwoman who secretly opened schools to educate Cork’s poorest children. Combine your museum tour with a stroll through the beautiful gardens, then savour a slice of cake at the on-site Good Day Deli.
Also just a short drive away is Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago and home to the famous Blarney Stone, found at the top of the tower. Legend has it that kissing the stone will endow you with the gift of the gab – a holiday souvenir quite unlike any other!
Things to note
As a popular tourist attraction, the site can be very busy with visitors. Occasional events are held inside the fort – please check the property website for details. Pets are not permitted to stay in either retreat. Please note that there is no parking at the property, but paid parking is available nearby.
Current Offers
15% discount for late availability (when booking 14 days prior to the stay)
Where you'll be staying
Cork, County Cork
What the guests of Elizabeth Fort say
“We loved our two nights in Fort Elizabeth. Perfect location for the city but an oasis of peace at night and very cool to have your very own keys to the fort! The cottage is charming and well equipped with very comfy beds and an excellent shower. No TV and no wifi was refreshing so bring a book and a pack of cards. Made a lovely change from the normal self-catering accommodation or a hotel.”
“The Landmark Trust have done an exceptional job restoring this unique early 20th century property. Perfectly situated in the heart of Cork city in the unusual setting of the 17th century Elizabeth Fort, the house is cosy and elegant, mixing modern convenience with delightful period detail.”
“Our second time to stay in this magnificent house, within the city, only a couple of minutes’ walk to Grand Parade. Once inside the fort, peace and tranquility transcends. Garrison House is like a big hug. Warm, welcoming, and spotlessly clean. Very well equipped kitchen, great stove in the living room, and THE most comfortable beds. Not to mention the great bathroom and powerful shower! Will we return again? Absolutely yes! Well done, again, Irish Landmark Trust!”
