Direction Ireland

Cork City Gaol

Southwest Ireland | County Cork

Cork City Gaol located on Sunday's Well is one of most interesting tourist attractions in the city. It was established in 1824 to replace overcrowded old prison at the Northgate Bridge. The building was designed by William Robertson of Kilkenny and built by the Deane family. One of Ireland's greatest sculptors, John Hogan worked there as a drafter. At the beginning, the prison housed both men and women, who committed the crime within the boundary of Cork City. The west wing of the prison's building was remodelled to double sided wing in 1870, and in 1878 it became female prison. During The Irish Civil War (1922-23) it became a prison for women and men again (anti-treaty supporters were imprisoned here). In August 1923, Cork City Gaol was closed, and all remaining prisoners were released or transferred to other penal units. From 1927 the top floor of the Governors house was used as a radio broadcasting station by 6CK, the first official radio station in Cork, which was succeeded by RTE (Raidió Teilifís Éireann) and broadcasting continued until the 1950s. In 1993, Cork City Gaol was open to the public as a tourist attraction. Strolling through the authentic 19th century Gaol you will meet its most famous prisoners, you will see their harsh living conditions and you will find out for what crimes they were sentenced. If you take self guided tour, it's worth to take an audio guide (extra €2 to the ticket price). The former Governors house, now is home of museum dedicated to radio broadcasting. Exhibition includes the restored 6CK broadcasting studio and interesting collection of artefacts, for example the microphone used by President John F Kennedy during his visit to Ireland in 1963.

• OPENING HOURS :
  • Oct - Mar:
    • Daily: 10am - 4pm
    • 23-27 Dec: closed
  • Apr - Sep:
    • Daily: 9.30am - 5pm
• TICKET PRICES :
  • Adult: €8
  • Student: €7.00
  • OAP: €7.00
  • Child: €5
  • Family: €25
  • (2 adults and up to 4 children)
  • Radio Museum: €2
• CONTACT :
  • Phone: +353 (0)21-4305022
• CAR PARK :
  • City car park