“I would like to call it my local - should I go back, then this is definitely my hotel. I loved it!”
Upon my arrival, on a windswept rainy day, I was delighted to see the wonderful Christmas decorations. The large tree, placed beside the wide staircase, and opposite - a welcoming log fire,it was such a delight to see.
Later on, when I went to the drawing room for afternoon tea, there was another Christmas tree, beautifully decorated.
In the reading room they had placed another tree and, although there were less decorations - it complimented the room perfectly.
My visitors who came to see me throughout my stay - loved the festive grandour of the Manor.
Upon my arrival, the receptionist took me up to see the room. It was lovely. My window overlooked the front of the Manor, and at night the city lights looked like fairy-town.
Having invited numerous friends for meals, throughout my stay - I dined there at various times throughout the day. We had lunch in Perrots Bistro; very good and attentive service. Late afternoon in the bar, we had delicious soups, light snacks and a large pot of coffee. which warmed us through.
One evening - we were a large group, we had a fantastic meal, a truly grand dinner in the Oyster restaurant. Wonderful!
Knowing that I needed plenty of fuel for the long journey ahead, I decided to have a full Irish breakfast. Served in the lovely Oyster restaurant, it was very busy, and yet it still felt intimate and relaxed.
I checked out, waiting in the cosy chair, beside the warm log fire, for my driver to arrive.
Consigli sulla zona
UCC - a wonderful college. I loved the quadrangle. And the walk through the grounds are delightful. Although I didn't get to see the ancient stones.
I went in to the little church in the grounds, having heard the most beautiful choir singing medieval songs. The stained glass windows are beautiful! I would have hated to have missed this magical interlude.
My friends and I, we walked down from the Manor to the centre of the city to see Bishop Lucy's garden bedecked with wonderful Christmas lights and many other wonderful things.
Due to the recent visit by the Queen of England the English Market is well known, so I wanted to see for myself. It is terrific and I enjoyed watching the people and soak up the atmosphere. Brilliant!
We drove up to St.Annes (otherwise known as the four liars, due to the four clocks telling different times - and it really is true!).
We rang the famous Bells of Shandon and our tunes rang out throughout the whole of the city. Amazing!
The Coal Quay was not as busy and bustling as I though it would, but my guess is that it may do so,coming up to Christmas.
Someone told me that, a long time ago, Cork was know as "Little Venice" because of the numerous bridges they have there. I don't know if this is true, but there are many of them throughout the city.
The bus station is a great way to get out and about and discover the surrounding towns and villages - spoilt for choice, but something there for everybody. I will be back!
Quando andare
Autumn - the trees are glorious! there is the most glorious smell of the earth at that time and it makes one think of childhood, home, and warm buttery toast.
Arrivo a
Fly with Aer Lingus, the staff are lovely. I have never taken a flight with Ryan Air so I am unable to comment.
Escursioni
By foot.
By car (although I have to say I didn't drive, I do not like driving in unfamiliar places), and there seemed to be a lot of cars driving bumper to bumper. Yuk! Not my idea of holiday or fun at all.
By Bus - very good services within the city and to surrounding cities, towns, and villages.
Cosa portare
Flat comfortable shoes or boots, to walk all over the city. It is hilly and therefore a bore and a chore if your footwear is uncomfortable.
An umbrella is provided by the hotel.
A warm coat.
Da vedere
UCC. Fitzgeralds Park. Shandon Bells. English Market. Crawford Art Gallery.
Pasti
English Market, Le Chateau. Hayfield Manor.
Attività per la famiglia
Bishop Lucy's garden on Grand Parade.
Vita notturna
Soho nightclub
Eventi e spettacoli
The Opera House, it looked interesting although I didn't manage to get time to see a show.
I loved Crawford Art Gallery and the fantastic paintings and sculptures.
All'aperto o in spiaggia
There were many lakes and beaches as we drove through Skibbereen and Clonakilty. I would have loved to stop off and walk along the sandy beaches (think of the film "Ryan's Daughter," and you get the idea), but we didnt have time.
