Things to do in Blarney

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Blarney Castle showing chateau or palace, heritage architecture and heritage elements
Blarney Castle showing chateau or palace, heritage architecture and heritage elements
Blarney Castle which includes a river or creek, heritage elements and a ruin
Blarney featuring a small town or village
Blarney Castle which includes chateau or palace, a park and heritage architecture
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Blarney must see attractions

1. Blarney Castle

Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.
Learn more
Blarney Castle showing chateau or palace and heritage architecture

2. University College Cork

Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.
Learn more
University College Cork which includes interior views, heritage elements and a church or cathedral

3. English Market

Visit Cork’s English Market to encounter the infectious sights, sounds and smells of a centuries-old food market. Discover everything from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal ice cream, fresh seafood and locally produced cheeses. Try typical Cork fare while watching the bustling market activity from the comfort of a café or restaurant. The English Market dates back to 1788. Today its more than 50 traders form an integral part of Cork’s culinary scene.
Learn more
English Market showing interior views and markets as well as a small group of people

4. Blarney Stone

Embedded into the moss and lichen-speckled battlements of Blarney Castle, in the small village of the same name, kissing the Blarney Stone is no easy feat. This is particularly true for anyone with a fear of heights as kissing the stone involves leaning backwards over the castle walls to reach it with one’s lips. Nevertheless, this has not stopped countless individuals from doing so over the centuries, in their quest for the gift of the gab.
Learn more
Blarney Stone showing heritage elements, building ruins and a castle

5. Cork City Gaol

Visit Cork City Gaol, where prisoners were held in gruesome conditions for almost a century during the 1800s and 1900s. Learn about this historic prison’s famous inmates, their crimes, escapes and executions while walking between the well-preserved cells. Cork City Goal opened in 1824 and became an all-female prison in 1878. It held a mix of well-known prisoners and poor citizens, many convicted of petty crimes such as stealing clothes and food.
Learn more
Cork City Gaol featuring interior views, an administrative buidling and heritage elements

What to do in Blarney

Discover the most popular places to visit in Blarney

Blarney Castle featuring heritage elements, a castle and heritage architecture

Blarney Castle

Walk in the footsteps of ancient kings, wander amid mystical gardens and kiss the venerated Blarney Stone at this centuries-old castle.

Blarney Castle
Blarney Stone showing chateau or palace, heritage elements and building ruins

Blarney Stone

While County Cork is not short on medieval history, you will only find one Blarney Stone. Located roughly five miles northwest of Cork, the stone is said to have mythical qualities. Legend has it that the Blarney Stone grants the gift of eloquence to anybody who kisses it.

Blarney Stone

Blarney Woolen Mills

During your trip to Blarney, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Blarney Woolen Mills. Amble around this relaxing area's riverfront and enjoy its lively bars.

Blarney Woolen Mills

Church of the Immaculate Conception

After visiting Church of the Immaculate Conception, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Blarney. Stroll along the riverfront in this relaxing area, or check out its lively bars.

Church of the Immaculate Conception

Church of the Resurrection

Church of the Resurrection is just one of the places to see in Blarney, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around this relaxing area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Church of the Resurrection

Popular day trips from Blarney

University College Cork showing a river or creek and a small town or village

Cork

Frequently asked questions

Is Blarney worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of fun things to do in Blarney. Make sure to experience the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Blarney?
Once you've checked off leading attractions like Blarney Stone and National Rowing Centre, spend the rest of your day discovering Blarney's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Blarney?
The top tourist attraction in Blarney is Blarney Stone, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Blarney?
You can easily tour popular sights like Blarney Stone, Leisureplex and Crane Lane Theatre with a three-day getaway in Blarney. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Province of Munster.
Is Blarney a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Blarney, like Blarney Stone and Church of the Immaculate Conception, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 3 kilometers from central Blarney is Tower and Carrigrohane is 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Blarney with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Blarney with kids.

What to do in Blarney for adults?
Paul Street and Blarney Woolen Mills are just two of the things to do in Blarney. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Blarney?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Blarney is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without taking your wallet out. Leisureplex is one place that doesn't have an entrance fee.