Top 10 Best Date Ideas in Cork

Cork is one of the largest cities in Ireland, and with that comes a whole host of choice for going on a date in Cork.

Stressful, right?

Well, lucky for you, the best date ideas in Cork have been researched, debated and shortlisted for you below. Whether it’s a first date, a fourth date, or a four hundred and fortieth date, this is a vibrant city chock full of beauty and wonder.

And we’ve got it all: options for young couples, older couples, cheap dates, and even some pricier activities for those with deeper pockets wanting to wow their date.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list!

1. A First Date

A first date in Cork is like a first date anywhere else; it’s all about settling the nerves, feeling relaxed, and getting to know one another.

So where better to do just that than The Mutton Lane Inn?

It’s easy to see why this particular pub is included as part of the Cork Heritage Pub Trail. Located next to the famous English Market, this is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle and get to know one another.

With its candlelight and sparkling fairy lights, it’s a certainly a touch romantic for any date, and with no televisions there’s no chance of distraction; just good quality conversation, good beer, and incredibly friendly staff.

And if you’re stuck for something to say, just cast your glance to above the bar - a certain Mr Johnny Cash, along with two of Cork’s Lord Mayors, will be looking down on you.

Website | Address: 3 Mutton Lane, Cork, Ireland

2. A Coffee Date

If you’re going to go for a coffee date in Cork, then you won’t want to do anything by halves. You have to choose a cafe that knows good coffee, and that place is undoubtedly Cork Coffee Roasters.

Its cool vintage interior is complemented by the wonderful aroma of freshly ground coffee, and the cakes and scones are pretty tasty too. This is the perfect place for a quiet chat, a caffeine boost, and a round of staring longingly into each other’s eyes.

Website | Address: 2 Bridge St, Cork, Ireland

3. A Cheap & Cheerful Date

Now, not every date in Cork needs to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of things to do for a date idea that won’t cost either of you a cent.

For instance, if you’re both feeling active, and the weather’s not conspiring against you, then pull on your hiking boots and take to one of the many picturesque and pleasant trails in and around the city.

Fresh air, green space, and the peace and quiet to talk - and, er, other things - always makes for a top notch date. If the date is going well, you can stop in for food or drinks and continue your date knowing you've started well.

Website

4. A Special Date

If you’re celebrating a special date in Cork, then you might consider escaping the city centre for a night and heading to the coast for some romance.

Located about an hour’s drive in the car, Deasy's Harbour Bar & Seafood Restaurant serves up some delicious Michelin-starred fare, with beautiful views over Clonakilty Bay thrown in for good measure.

This won’t be a cheap date by any stretch of the imagination (you’re looking at a price range of between €22 - €47 for a meal) and it’ll only get pricier if you opt to stay the night at the charming nearby Bay View House B&B. But it’ll be worth it for the good food and relaxing surrounds of this lovely part of County Cork.

Website | Address: Ring Village, Clonakilty, Co. Cork, Ireland

5. A Cinema Date

Sure, you could hit up one of a number of cinemas located in Cork. But for something just a little bit different, jump in the car and head for Movie Junction at Carrigtwohill.

Drive-in movies are very much in-vogue at the moment, and for good reason. A spot of late-night movie-going is made all the more romantic with the privacy of hanging out in your car.

Grab some classic movie snacks and cuddle up for the feature, or ignore it altogether and steam up those windows. Either way, this beats a boring old multiplex hands down!

Website | Address: Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork, Ireland

6. A Musical Date

If you and your date are both prone to swaying in time with the music, then the Crane Lane Theatre could be the place for you. Hosting top class jazz, blues, and indie performers 7 nights a week, this popular and iconic venue is the perfect place for a shimmy and a shandy.

We recommend swinging by before the gig and sampling some of the brilliant craft beers they have on tap, while chilling out in the courtyard beer garden.

Website | Address: Phoenix Street, Cork, Ireland

7. A Late Night Date

When things are going well, and you don’t want to call it a night just yet, then take an idyllic stroll along the marina before arriving at the Blackrock Castle Observatory. If you’re lucky, there’ll be some late night stargazing to get involved with at the observatory itself, but craning your neck skyward doesn’t cost anything!

What better way to round off a romantic evening than by staring at the stars together?

Website | Address: Blackrock, Cork, Ireland

 

8. A Picnic Date

Is the sun shining? Then pack a blanket, a bottle of bubbly, and make up some sandwiches before making a beeline for Fitzgerald Park. A picnic is an underrated date idea, and you’ll definitely come across as thoughtful for even suggesting it.

The park is home to some beautifully manicured greenery, and it makes for the perfect counterpoint to the busy city centre.

Stretch out on the grass and enjoy some good company, or wander around the landscaped gardens before heading back to the city.  

Website | Address: Mardyke Walk, Cork, Ireland

9. A Riverside Date

With the River Lee running through Cork, it’s definitely a good idea to make it part of your date. Consider renting bikes from The Bike Shed and taking to one of the many cycle routes along the riverside.

You could even combine this particular date with the previous picnic date idea, cycling along the river to and from Fitzgerald Park.

Website | Address: College Commercial Park, Magazine Road, Cork, Ireland

10. A Brunch Date

A brunch date in Cork is the perfect way to kick off a day of exploring the city together. And there’s few better at fuelling you up for what lies ahead than Liberty Grill. Serving brunch from 8am til noon, you may need to get there even earlier to guarantee a table.

From its mouthwatering Full American to the healthy and tasty Mediterranean Breakfast, this bright and welcoming establishment certainly knows a thing or two about good food. Be sure to complement your brunch with a refreshing mimosa to start the day right!

Website | Address: 32 Washington Street, Cork, Ireland

Main photo credit: Flickr via photopin (license)