Things to See and Do in Bandon and the surrounding areas

BANDON is the ideal location from which to launch your adventures in West Cork.

We've put together a list of 50 of the best things to do and see in the Bandon area, which includes Kilbrittain, Innishannon, Ballineen and Enniskeane.

This article originally appeared in our bumper Things to See and Do guide for West Cork in 2023. You can read the full guide via our ePaper at southernstar.ie/epaper

1. TOWN WALLS OF BANDON

Discover the walls of Bandon, which were built by the Earl of Cork, Richard Boyle, between 1620 and 1625. He built the walls to protect the inhabitants and develop the town. Apart from Derry, Bandon is the only plantation town to have walls intact and the lines of the wall can still be traced, and upstanding remains can be seen in the grounds of St. Peter’s Church and in the Riverview Shopping Centre.

2. VISIT THE INDEPENDENCE MUSEUM KILMURRY

For anyone with an interest in local history, the Independence Museum in Kilmurry is certainly worth a visit. Boasting a state-of-the-art museum and audiovisual space, the museum is the brainchild of the Kilmurry Historical & Archaeological Association and holds around 400 objects including the original wheel from a Black and Tan Crossley Tender burnt at the Kilmichael Ambush. www.kilmurrymuseum.ie

3. SURF’S UP AT GARRETTSTOWN
Why not take the plunge and try a surf lesson at Garrettstown Beach? Lessons in surfing as well as a multitude of other water-based activities are available at this popular beach which is just 15 minutes from Bandon town. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking, you’ll find everything you need to satisfy your desires for water-based activities.

4. BANDON FOOD MARKETS

Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor markets, Bandon has both to offer locals and visitors alike. The Bandon Country Market on Weir Street sells a wide variety of homemade goods and is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 9am to 1.30pm. The outdoor Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday from 9.30am to 1.30pm in the Ballymodan car park with a wealth of local and artisan produce on sale.

5. FISHING ON BANDON RIVER
Take time out to go fishing on the splendid Bandon River. From fly-fishing to angling, the river is well known for its migrating salmon and sea trout. Bandon Angling Association offers visitor day permits, as well as club membership. See www.bandonangling.com for more.

6. BANDON TOASTMASTERS
A long-established club, Bandon Toastmasters meet every second and fourth Wednesday from September to June in the Munster Arms Hotel. Visitors are always welcome with no obligation to join, and it can be an enjoyable evening of public speaking on various topics. There are also Toastmasters clubs in Rosscarbery (West Cork Toastmasters) and Bantry. All visiting Toastmasters clubs from other regions are welcome. Check locally for details.

7. GET PHYSICAL OUTSIDE
The Tone Zone next to the MUGA complex on the Glasslyn Road offers the best of the gym in a perfect outdoor setting. Why not get fit in the fresh air by using a variety of equipment including the cross trainers, rotating wheel and the seated push. There’s also the option of the airwalker and the seated pedal machine to work those muscles.

8. BANDON LIBRARY
Bandon’s state-of-the-art library is located on the on the ground floor of the Primary Care Centre in the town centre. Library users can choose from a selection of almost 30,000 books, with dedicated areas for younger children, teens and young adults. There are also two 3D printers, a multifunctional meeting room, and free access to high-speed internet and Wi-Fi throughout. The perfect spot for a quiet and relaxing read, a space to study, or an onsite or digital conferencing meeting. The library is also part of My Open Library (MOL), which offers extending opening hours to library members on a self-service basis outside of normal opening hours, seven days a week, from 8am to 10pm 365 days per year.

9. VISIT GREY HERON WEST CORK

Take in an exhibition or just admire what’s on display at Grey Heron on Bridge Street. The art gallery has played host to a series of both local and national artists over the years. Why not pop downstairs to the craft centre, where a selection of local arts, crafts and jewellery are on sale, and you can even treat yourself to a cup of West Cork coffee. Visit www.greyheronwestcork.ie

10. CAFÉ CULTURE-BANDON STYLE
With plenty of coffee shops and restaurants in the town, there is no excuse not to catch up with friends over a coffee or a bite to eat. When it comes to dining there are also several restaurants and bars that offer a variety of cuisine and styles to choose from.

11. SING WITH THE GLASLINN CHOIR

Bandon’s very own three-part female choir has more than 35 members and they have proved very popular throughout West Cork at their many concerts and fundraisers. From classical to religious music, the choir has also had great success in choral competitions in recent years and they are always looking for new members. See www.glaslinnchoir.ie for more information.

12. ANYONE FOR TENNIS?
Next door to Bandon Golf Club, Bandon Lawn Tennis Club has three outdoor floodlit artificial turf tennis courts, and the clubhouse is a popular place for socialising. Club nights take place on a Wednesday night at 7pm during the summer months and the courts can be booked online by adult members. See www.bandonltc.com for more details.

13. GREAT WALKS

Bandon has a variety of walks and trails for everyone. The Graham Norton Walk, named after the famous Bandon-reared entertainer lies along the Bandon River. The Dr Clare O’Leary Walk – named after the mountaineer – lies along the railway line amenity between Bandon and Innishannon and there are plans to connect this walk to the rest of the town. Bandon Hill Walking Club also provides an opportunity for members to enjoy guided walks through the scenic mountains and valleys of West Cork and beyond. The club caters for all levels of fitness and the walks take place regularly. For more information email [email protected]

14. HIT THE BEACH

Bandon is ideally situated for a day at the beach. Both Coolmain and Harbour View are located just outside Kilbrittain Village, only a 10mins drive away. Popular for swimming and windsurfing, these two beaches are easily accessible. Another hidden gem of a beach near Coolmain is Howes Strand.

15. BÉAL NA BLÁTH MONUMENT SITE

Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the Michael Collins centenary commemoration at Béal na Bláth. (Photo: Denis Boyle)

One of the most popular places for visitors interested in Irish history, the monument site at Béal na Bláth is dedicated to Michael Collins who was shot there during an ambush on August 22nd, 1922. This forms part of a general West Cork route related to Michael Collins and this site was upgraded and improved last year making it more visitor friendly. Last year marked the 100th anniversary of his death with over 12,000 people turning up for the commemoration. This year’s commemoration takes place on Sunday August 20th.

16. BALLINADEE BUS & FARM WALKS

This family-run quirky accommodation site on the McCarthy’s farm in Ballinadee is certainly worth a visit. Stay onsite in one of the Double Decker buses, relax in the outdoor hot tub and enjoy their new family farm walk. They were recent runners up in the TG4 programme ‘Beidh Mé Ar Ais’ to find Ireland’s best new tourist attraction. See ‘Ballinadee Bus’ on Facebook for more details.

17. ON YOUR BIKE
With cycling being as popular, or perhaps more so than ever, why not take a spin with Bandon Cycling Club? The aim of the club is to promote the sport of cycling by providing the town with an ethos that encourages cycling as a life-long activity. The Red/Black groups and the White Group meet for Sunday morning spins at Chemco Pharmacy on New Road from 8.25am. For more info email: [email protected] or check their Facebook page.

18. CHURCHES IN BANDON
Why not visit some of the town’s historic and spectacular churches, which include the iconic Methodist Church as you enter the town from Innishannon. There is also St Peter’s Church (Church of Ireland) and St Patrick’s Church (Roman Catholic) in the town – all of which are wonderful buildings steeped in history.

19. FORE!
At Bandon Golf Club you will be faced with a testing parkland golf course in beautiful sylvan setting with natural hazards abounding. For more info go to www.bandongolfclub.com. There is also no shortage of pitch and putt courses in the surrounding areas, such as Newcestown, Ballineen and Brinny.

20. VISIT THE WEST CORK HERITAGE CENTRE

Located on North Main Street, in the former Christchurch, the West Cork Heritage Centre allows you to experience Bandon in times past as you are transported back through the charming exhibition on display. Visitors can see replicas of an old shop, school, kitchen and forge, and memorabilia from Bandon’s time as a garrison town. Visit www.westcorkheritagecentre.com for more details.

21. BUY A CAR
Known as the ‘Motoring Capital of Cork’ Bandon has a number of quality garages dotted throughout the town. If you’re  looking to upgrade or on the lookout for a brand-new model, then there’s no better town to visit for value and unequalled choice.

22. FANCY A RUN?
With a 400m running track above the town park, Bandon Athletic Club is a vibrant, active club that is always seeking new members. They train on Monday and Wednesday, and as well as a running track, there is also a long jump and shot putt area. The club is currently in the process of developing a brand-new track which will see state-of-the-art athletic facilities just outside the town.

23.RETAIL THERAPY IN BANDON
Boasting a good mix of local businesses and national franchises, Bandon is an excellent town for a spot of shopping. Whether it’s your weekly shop or a fashion fix, there are a variety of shops and boutiques to satisfy any savvy shopper. It is  also the only town in West Cork to have its own ‘all weather’ indoor shopping centre – The Riverview Centre - which has ample parking too.

24. GO SKATEBOARDING
Bandon has its very own skateboard park on the Glasslyn Road. This is a mecca for skateboarders and BMXers and even little ones on their scooters. With plenty of ramps for them to practice their moves on, this is a great place to spend an afternoon with the children. The skate park forms part of the MUGA (Multi Use Games Area), which includes an outdoor gym, walks along the river and a basketball court, so there’s something for everyone here.

25. JOIN A SPORTING CLUB!
Bandon has a rich history of numerous successful sports clubs, so whether you fancy a game of hockey or a game of hurling, there’s something in the town for everyone. As well as a successful GAA club, Bandon boasts a soccer club, rugby club, hockey club, athletics club, cycling club and walking club so there’s no excuse not to get active.

26. CREEPY CRAWLIES

Bandon is home to three very interesting ‘bug hotels’ which was made by a team at Youthreach Bandon in conjunction with Bandon Tidy Towns. Two new additions came from students from St Brogan’s College also. They offer a huge learning opportunity for children who can go and see the various bugs and insects that have taken up residence in the hotels, which features straw, moss and dry leaves. The bug hotels nare located at the park on Glasslyn Road, beside the  Bandon River and Bernard’s Bridge Railway Walk.

27. CHILDREN’S PLAYTIME
Bandon’s new state-of-the art play park, located on the Glaslynn Road next to the MUGA complex, opened recently and heralds a new era where children can enjoy a super range of activities in this modern new play park, thanks to the hard work of the Bandon Playground Group who fundraised tirelessly to create a new space for children.

Kilbrittain & Innishannon

28. DROMKEEN WOOD FOREST WALK
Take a stroll through Dromkeen Woods near Innishannon and discover up to 20 fairy homes that have proved to be a wonderful addition to the woods. These brightly coloured wooden doors are dotted throughout the woods and are a big hit with children. With paths, steps and handrails installed by Innishannon’s Tidy Towns Committee, this is certainly worth a visit.

29. KILBRITTAIN WHALE

Proving to be a very popular attraction in Kilbrittain, the Kilbrittain Whale displayed in the Village Park is indeed a sight to see. In 2009, this whale beached itself on Burren Beach and despite many efforts to save it, it died. Its bones have now been cleaned and are on display in the village. Admission is free of charge, but donations are kindly accepted.

30. GET ACTIVE!
Kilbrittain Community Playground will not only keep the kids entertained, but it even includes an activity area for adults. There are separate areas for children under 6, 6-14 years and it has adult exercise equipment. There is a lovely picnic area so you can sit back, relax and refuel after all the moving!

31. EAT & DRINK
For a small village, Innishannon punches well above its weight when it comes to food and drink spots. With a café, bakery, country market, pubs, grocery shops and takeaways, there is plenty of choice. There are even regular visits by food and coffee trucks for that morning caffeine fix or afternoon pick-me-up.

32. PLAYGROUND
Located within the GAA grounds, Innishannon playground is a bustling spot with a wide variety of play equipment, perfect for kids of all ages and abilities. The nearby walkway around the pitches is the perfect spot for a stroll around, having a chat and a coffee, while the kids play with their friends.

33. BEST KEPT SECRET!
If you’re looking for an adventurous day out, look no further than West Cork Secret. Located between Kilbrittain and Timoleague, the activity centre and gardens offer a range of fun activities including military style challenges, team building exercises, orienteering, go-karting, assault courses and a big water slide. They cater for groups, clubs, teams, family and friend groups, and birthdays. See westcorksecret.ie for more details.

34. WANDERFUL’ STUFF!
Check out the ‘Wanderful’ augmented reality walking trail at Dromkeen Woods in Innishannon. Set up by a local woman, you simply download the Wanderful app to your phone and then watch out for symbols on trees and benches. Hold up your phone camera and it will magically reveal hidden creatures! See wanderful.ie for more information.

35. CROSSBARRY MEMORIAL MONUMENT

The Crossbarry Ambush in March 1921 was one of the largest and most successful engagements carried out against the British forces during the War of Independence, led by Commandant General Tom Barry. The monument in the village commemorates this famous battle that was a turning point in the war and is an interesting site to visit.

36. KILBRITTAIN WALKING TRAILS

The four Kilbrittain Walking Trails have become very popular with both locals and visitors alike. There are four different trails that all loop and start at the village park. They range from the shortest -The Castle Walk which is 3.7km, to the longest – The Kiln Loop which is 14.5 km. Walkers can pick up maps of the trails locally and it’s a great way of exploring the vast countryside where you can take in places like Kilbrittain Castle (pictured below – the oldest habitable castle in  Ireland), Clashavanna View and Trinity Well. For more information go to www.kilbrittaintrails.ie.

37. MONUMENTS
Innishannon is home to two impressive monuments. The first, on the eastern side of the village as you come in from the Cork city side, is a sculpture of a cloaked rider on a workhorse. This symbolic piece tells the story of the origins of the  village and its strategic location at the original entrance to West Cork. The village was given a royal charter in 1412 and back then, it was the only point on the river Bandon at which anyone could gain access into West Cork, which was by horseback. On the western side of the village is the sculpture of Billy the Blacksmith. Billy’s family plied their trade in the village for generations and the forge is a historic landmark on the road to West Cork.

38. HORSERIDING
With two equine centres located not far from Bandon, it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and take a horse for a good run. The West Cork Equine Centre is a family-run equestrian facility located in the hills of Garryndruig near Kilbrittain and they cater for all equestrian disciplines. Call (083) 3759933 or email [email protected] The family run Hawthorn Villa Equestrian Centre in Dromkeen, Innishannon caters for all levels. It’s a great way to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and learn a new skill. Call (086) 8525795 or email [email protected].

39. CASTLELACK STONE ROW & CASHEL HILLFORT

The standing stones at Castlelack, near the lake, are perhaps the largest and finest examples of a megalithic monument in County Cork. There are six stones altogether with four forming a row and two flat stones, with the tallest standing at about 4m. They are believed to be about 3,000 years old and may have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes. In neighbouring Knockavilla, a 3,000-year-old hillfort is understood to be one of the oldest in Ireland and was in use during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. Located on a hilltop in Knockavilla, this is a stunning example of a fort, and its beauty can best be captured from the air to give you an idea of the sheer scale of it. In recent years archaeologists have carried out extensive surveys and excavations on this hillfort.

Ballineen & Enniskeane

40. VILLAGE CENTRE SCULPTURE AND SEATING AREA (AN GARRAÍ)
You are invited to enjoy a coffee and sit outdoors in the seating area in the centre of Enniskeane village and admire the aesthetic symbolism of the beautiful, bespoke Fuchsia sculpture, commissioned by Ballineen and Enniskeane Tidy Towns Association, supported by Leader and crafted by sculptor Moss Gaynor, with its focus on the West Cork landscape and respect for biodiversity and natural environment. Then proceed across the street and relax under the shade of the beautiful ash tree at the footof the hill in An Goirtín Rua Garden.

41. GLENVIEW GARDENS & HOBBIT HOUSE

Glenview Gardens & Hobbit House at Desert Enniskeane is a real gem and is full of surprises. Visitors can explore the woodland fairy trail as well as the Hobbit House (the kids will love this) as well as exploring the fantastic gardens ranging from traditional Irish to Japanese to tropical. There is also a bird aviary with exotic birds as well as a self-service tearoom and picnic areas. www.glenviewgardenswestcork.com

42. COPPEEN WAYMARKED WALKS
Four themed walking routes make up the Coppeen Waymarked Walks, which suits walkers of all levels. The Fuchsia Walk is a 6.6km short distance walk, starting and finishing in the village, while the Heather Walk is 9.3km and the longest one is the Gorse Walk at 12.4km. All the routes are marked by signage posts and are colour co-ordinated.

43. OLD BALLYMONEY GRAVEYARD
Steeped in local history, the Old Ballymoney Graveyard outside Ballineen is certainly worth a visit. It is believed to date back to the ninth century and is regularly maintained and is open to the general public. Many local heroes are buried here including the remains of Captain Joseph Daunt, who was killed in a duel in 1826 as well those who were involved in the Kilmichael Ambush during the War of Independence. An ancient ‘cursing stone’ is one of the attractions there and according to mythology it allowed people to see into the future.

44. COMMUNITY WALKWAY
The Leader supported, Community Walkway around St Mary’s GAA Club and BEDA pitches is already a popular outdoor recreational area for walkers and joggers. This scenic, flat, off-street Slí na Sláinte trail, adjacent to the remnants of the West Cork Railway Line and beautiful Bandon River, caters to people of all ages and abilities. It is wheelchair and age friendly and suitable for families with children in buggies. Take some time to enjoy all that this wonderful amenity has to offer.

45. BALLINEEN & ENNISKEANE HERITAGE TRAIL
The brainchild of the hard working Tidy Towns committee in Ballineen and Enniskeane, this heritage trail erected in the Courthouse Plaza in Ballineen with the help of Cork County Council outlines the various places to visit in the twin villages. The trail includes a board, plaque and heritage map and just a stone’s throw is the Riverside Garden, which is perfect for a leisurely walk.

46. GET IN TOUCH WITH NATURE AT THE HOLLIES
Set over 30 acres the Hollies near Enniskeane is a centre for training in practical sustainability and is a delightful place to visit or even take part in a course. Their distinctive cob house is a wonderful example of the revival in cob building and they run several courses in subjects ranging from wild food foraging to making your own herbal medicine. The centre is also open to volunteers from March to October. www.thehollies.ie

47. REPLICA MODEL TRAIN

As you walk the Heritage Trail, take a moment to view the historically-accurate replica model train, commissioned by Ballineen and Enniskeane Tidy Towns Association, constructed by Stroker Fabrications and supported by Cork County Council. The train is positioned on a raised bed at the entrance to the Community Centre, the site of Ballineen Station, and replicates the trains that chugged along the West Cork Railway line throughout its century long history. The freight in the two carriages simulates merchandise being transported to and from Ballineen Station.

48. ROUND TOWER CASTLETOWN-KENNIEGH
One of only two round towers in the county of Cork (the other being in Cloyne), the round tower at Castletown-Kinneigh has attained National Monument Status in recent years. It is thought to date back to the 10th or 11th century, with an additional upper section added in the mid-19th century to make a belfry. What is unique about this structure is its 5m high hexagonal base and this impressive historic tower reaches a height of 20m. The tower also has five storeys as well as a basement and is overlooking St. Bartholomew’s Church of Ireland parish church and cemetery. Access to the interior of the tower is no longer allowed due to safety reasons.

49. RIVERSIDE BIODIVERSITY AND SENSORY GARDEN
Visit the much acclaimed Riverside Biodiversity and Sensory Garden where there is a spectacular view of the iconic ten arch Ballineen Bridge as it elegantly spans the Bandon River. The wheelchair accessible garden, a Tidy Towns led project supported by Cork County Council, enhances biodiversity and provides a relaxing space for visitors. Stroll through the Sensory Garden with its array of flowers, shrubs, herbs, fruit and other landscape features, or sit awhile in the tranquil autism-friendly Willow Dome. Complete your visit with a picnic at the wheelchair accessible picnic table.

50. BEDA PLAYGROUND
Why not check out the fantastic BEDA playground (Ballineen Enniskeane Development Association) that has something to offer for all the family. As well as an outdoor playground that includes a junior slide and climbing unit, senior slide and climbing combo unit and a springer and dual zipline, there is also a multi-use games area for tennis, soccer and basketball. The complex also boast an outdoor gym with cross trainers and adult seated rowing as well as an 18-hole pitch and putt course.

This article originally appeared in our bumper Things to See and Do guide for West Cork in 2023. You can read the full guide via our ePaper at southernstar.ie/epaper