More than 870,000 visits to Cork heritage sites last year

More than 870,000 visits were recorded at heritage sites across Cork in 2024.

Data published by the Office of Public Works (OPW) shows that 873,788 visits were recorded across six heritage sites in Cork last year, representing an overall decrease of 7,245 visits on the previous year.

Among the six heritage sites, Doneraile Park was the most popular with 505,467 visits, followed by Fota Arboretum and Gardens with 141,283 visits, Charles Fort Kinsale with 104,723 visits, Garinish Island with 69,981 visits, Glebe House with 46,649 visits, and Anne’s Grove Gardens with 5,685 visits.

Decrease

While Doneraile Park and Fota Arboretum and Gardens recorded the most visits for 2024, both amenities saw a decrease in visitor numbers on the previous year, when 523,800 and 142,872 visits respectively were recorded.

A decrease in visitor numbers on the previous year was also observed at Anne’s Grove Gardens, which recorded 6,114 visits in 2023.

An increase in visitor numbers was observed in the other three heritage sites last year, with a further 8,470 visits recorded at Charles Fort Kinsale, 2,351 additional visits recorded at Garinish Island, and 2,285 additional visits recorded at Glebe House.

The OPW heritage sites of Barryscourt Castle and Desmond Castle showed no visitor figures for 2023 and 2024 due to site closures.

Landmarks

Minister of state for the OPW, Kevin Moran, said that from medieval castles to ancient monuments, the continued investment by the State in our rich and unique heritage portfolio was essential for the safeguarding and preservation of our built heritage.

“We are fortunate to have such incredible landmarks across the country, we work hard to conserve and protect them,” said Mr Moran.

“I am pleased to see that a diverse range of regional sites are welcoming more visitors across their thresholds.

“We look forward to opening the magnificent Barryscourt Castle next month, which will bolster visitor volumes.

“Our heritage sites are an important part of our national identity and shared history and offer a unique insight into the lives and stories of our ancestors.”