Built in 1601 and named after Queen Elizabeth I, Elizabeth Fort has watched over Cork through sieges, rebellions, famine, and war.
Originally constructed to bolster city defences beyond the medieval walls, it played a key role in the 1690 Siege of Cork and later served as a prison, food depot, and military base.
Today, it’s a free-to-enter heritage site offering panoramic views and guided tours that bring four centuries of Irish history vividly to life.
Visiting Elizabeth Fort
Photos by Eileen Coffey via Failte Ireland
Although a visit to Elizabeth Fort in Cork City is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.
1. Location
You’ll find Elizabeth Fort just off Barrack Street in Cork. Now, if you’re thinking, ‘Wait – I thought it was in Kinsale‘, then you’re mixing it up with Charles Fort – it’s an easy mistake to make!
2. Opening hours
- October to April: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00. Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00
- May to September: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00. Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00
3. Admission/prices
General admission to the fort is free of charge, but there is a guided tour that takes place every day the fort is open at 1pm. The charge for this is €5 per person, though under 12s can do the tour for free (prices may change).
A history of Elizabeth Fort
Elizabeth Fort was constructed in 1601, commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I as a response to growing security concerns in Cork. Positioned outside the city’s medieval walls, it was built by Sir George Carew to protect the city from external threats, particularly pirates and invaders.
The original structure was made of timber and earth, but due to local concerns, it was dismantled in 1603 by the citizens of Cork, fearing it could be used against them by the English Crown. The fort was soon rebuilt, solidifying its role in the city’s defense.
The siege of Cork
One of the most significant events in the fort’s history occurred during the Williamite War in 1690. Cork was a stronghold for the Jacobites, loyal to King James II, and Elizabeth Fort was part of the defense during the Siege of Cork.
After a prolonged siege, the fort eventually fell to Williamite forces, marking a pivotal moment in Cork’s military history.
Use as a Barracks and Prison
In the early 18th century, the fort was repurposed as a military barracks, a role it maintained for many years.
During the 19th century, it was converted into a prison, where many prisoners, including women, were held before being transported to penal colonies. This was especially significant during the Great Famine, as the fort played a role in the management of famine relief.
The later years
In the 20th century, the fort became a police station and remained in use as such until 2013. After its closure, Elizabeth Fort was transferred to the care of Cork City Council, which began its development as a heritage site and tourist attraction.
Today, it stands as a fascinating historical monument, offering insights into Cork’s turbulent past and serving as a hub for cultural events.
The Elizabeth Fort Tour
The Elizabeth Fort tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the fort’s rich history, from its role in the Jacobite wars to its use during the Irish Civil War.
Guided by knowledgeable staff, the €5 tour takes you through the fort’s key features, offering insights into its various functions over the centuries. Along the way, you’ll gain an understanding of Cork City’s history, while enjoying panoramic views of the city from the fort’s ramparts.
Things to do nearby
If you fancy, you can easily follow the itinerary above, which you’ll find in my Cork City guide. It’ll take you to:
- The English Market: Artisan stalls, fresh seafood and local produce in a Victorian setting. Open since 1788
- Blackrock Castle: Built in 1582 to keep pirates at bay. Now an observatory, museum and home to a top brunch spot
- The Butter Museum: Learn how Cork became a global dairy exporter
- Pubs and restaurants: See my Cork restaurants and Cork pubs guide
- Cork Gaol: Once a 19th-century prison, now a museum showing Cork’s justice system through the ages.
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.