Free admission to OPW visitor sites in Cork in support of Government's recovery and reopening plan

The measure is effective immediately and will remain in force until the end of the year

The announcement by the Minister for the Office of Public Works (OPW) Patrick O' Donovan will support the tourism industry and local businesses in Cork by incentivising people to discover, enjoy and cherish the many OPW heritage sites spread across the county. 

* Charles Fort  -  Access to outside spaces only.  Visitor Centre and other internal Exhibition spaces closed

* Doneraile Court House open Thurs-Sun, downstairs, self-guiding only, from 13 May Gardens/Parklands open. Café Take-away/outdoor service only

* Fota Arboretum Gardens open as normal

* Garinish Island   Island open/Gardens open Fri to Sun  Bryce House open for escorted self-guided visits from 21 May Café open

The measure is effective immediately and will remain in force until the end of the year. 

Before Covid-19, OPW's visitor attractions would have welcomed over 9 million visitors a year - many of them international visitors - contributing significantly to cultural and heritage tourism in Ireland. 2021 will be different, as all easing of restrictions at OPW's sites is done carefully and in line with public health guidelines. However, there are already 54 out of 90 OPW sites with visitor services open either in part or fully around the country, meaning there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

This is now the second year in a row that the Government has acted to capitalise on, and contribute to, our historical and cultural destinations by making all of the OPW heritage sites that would normally have an admission fee free for all citizens looking for an enjoyable way to spend their holidays in 2021.

Details of OPW's visitor sites which are available to visit are on www.heritageireland.ie together with information on opening hours and other relevant information, for example if pre-booking is required. Restrictions on availability of certain parts of the visitor experience may not always be fully detailed as these change from time to time and intending visitors are strongly advised to check with the site in advance.

A number of the busiest sites are available on a pre-booked basis only by online booking, email or phone booking and this will be indicated on the Heritage Ireland website