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Tramore Park: Your Complete Guide

Let’s say you’re taking a quick trip to Cork City, with stops at Blarney Castle, the English Market, Cork City Gaol, Elizabeth Fort, and more. But if you’re in need of a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Tramore Valley Park is the place to go. Trust me, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Tramore Valley Park caught my attention for several reasons. Firstly, it’s one of the largest urban parks in Ireland, spanning around 160 acres. To put that into perspective, it’s like having 127 American football fields all in one spot! Pretty impressive, huh?

But what makes Tramore Valley Park truly special is its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. We’ll delve into that more later, but first, let’s start with the basics of Tramore Valley Park.

Table of Contents

Location of Tramore Valley Park

Tramore Valley Park is located on the south side of Cork City, near the Kinsale Road Roundabout. You can find it at Tramore Valley Park, Tramore Rd, S City Link Rd, Ballinlough, Cork, T12 AE86, Ireland.

"Transportation Options to Tramore Park"

Finding your way to Tramore Valley Park is a breeze, especially for first-time visitors.

Situated conveniently within Cork City, you can easily locate it on a map or follow GPS directions without any hassle. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to the park entrance once you’re in the vicinity.

Tramore Valley Park offers multiple access points, catering to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles alike. If you prefer walking or cycling, you can enter via the Eastern Park Walkway near Willow Park or Half Moon Lane near Christ King Secondary School.

For those driving, like myself, there’s a designated vehicle access point located across from the “Black Ash Park and Ride” on South Link Road.

But transportation options don’t stop there. You can also reach Tramore Valley Park conveniently by bus or train. Bus line 213 operates from South Mall to Black Ash Park every 30 minutes on weekdays and Saturdays, with a quick 8-minute ride. Alternatively, if you prefer trains, Cork (Kent) station is a short 14-minute walk from the park, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

With such convenient access options, getting to Tramore Valley Park is a breeze, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this hidden gem nestled within Cork City.

Parking Facilities

Tramore Valley Park in Cork, Ireland, boasts approximately 500 parking spaces for both cars and bicycles at the vehicle entrance on South Link Road, and parking typically aligns with the park’s schedule. During my visit, I discovered it was quite easy to secure a spot. So, if you’re planning to drive there, there’s no need to stress about parking.

Opening hours

Tramore Valley Park typically welcomes visitors every day from early morning until evening, but the exact closing hours may vary depending on the season and any special events.

During the winter months, the park opens at 8:30 am and closes at 5:00 pm. However, in the summer, particularly in June and July, the park extends its hours and remains open until 10:00 pm, allowing visitors to make the most of the longer daylight hours.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on opening hours, it’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact the park directly. You can find more details on their opening hours by visiting their website at: Tramore Valley Park Opening Hours

History of Tramore Valley Park

Including the history of Tramore Valley Park definitely makes it more special and dear to my heart.

When I first arrived at the park, I was amazed by the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Imagine my surprise when I learned that this beautiful, refreshing park was once a landfill site!

The Kinsale Road Landfill site opened back in the early 1960s. Over the next 35 years, more than 3 million tonnes of waste from Cork homes and businesses were dumped here. Finally, the landfill closed in July 2009, and Cork County Council had a grand vision.

Their goal was to transform this area into a modern route for people in South Cork, allowing them to travel to and from the city without needing a car, all while enjoying the beauty of nature. They made significant improvements, but they were careful to preserve the natural habitats for animals and plants.

They even enlisted local wildlife expert William O’Halloran to study the area and ensure that natural habitats were protected and enhanced. The results are stunning! What used to be a dreary landfill is now a thriving park with wetlands, rare birds, and diverse wildlife, offering city residents a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with nature.

Activities to Enjoy in Tramore Valley Park

Tramore Valley Park offers numerous activities for enjoyment. You can stroll or cycle along the trails, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax and appreciate the surroundings. I’ll review the park’s special facilities, so let’s dive in.

Robert Heffernan Walk (2.5km)

The park features a 2.5 km walking loop, named after Olympian and former World Champion racewalker Robert Heffernan. This loop is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists alike. It guides visitors through the park’s wetlands area, where you can observe a variety of plants and animals. Along the way, I discovered numerous signs with information about the flora and fauna you might encounter, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

BMX Track

The park also boasts the only International Standard BMX Track in Cork, making it a major highlight for visitors. The Cork BMX Club is based here, and the track is available for use during the club’s training times. Currently, these sessions are held on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 4 pm, and on Wednesday nights from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Rugby Pitch

The park also features a large rugby field for games and practice sessions. You can pre-book the field for training sessions and events, subject to approval from the Glen Resource Centre and Cork City Council.

The Dome

In the middle of the park, there’s an elevated spot known as the Dome. From this vantage point, you can enjoy impressive views of landmarks such as the Shandon Bells and Elysian Tower, especially on sunny days. It’s a perfect spot to take in the scenic beauty of Cork City.

Outdoor Gym

A new addition to the park is the outdoor gym located in the southwest area. It’s available for use during normal park hours, offering a convenient way to stay active outdoors.

Once you’re done exploring the park, there are plenty of nearby attractions to visit as well.

Activities Nearby Tramore Valley Park

In the vicinity of Tramore Valley Park, a plethora of thrilling activities await, offering an abundance of opportunities for enjoyment and adventure.

Blarney Castle - Just 20 Minutes Nearby

You’ve probably heard about the famous Blarney Castle in Cork. It’s only a short 20-minute car ride from Tramore Valley Park. At Blarney Castle, you can visit and kiss the Blarney Stone, which is believed to give you the gift of being a smooth talker.

Cork City Gaol- Just 16 Minutes Nearby

Just 2km from downtown, the old Cork City Gaol, erected in the 19th century, has undergone a remarkable transformation into an immersive museum experience. This castle-like edifice provides a fascinating insight into the harsh realities of prison life during the 1800s, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the city’s storied past. While exploring the gaol, you’ll step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Cork’s history.

Moreover, within the premises, you’ll find the Radio Museum Experience housed in the former Governor’s House. Delve into the world of radio technology and discover the evolution of communication in this captivating exhibit.

English Market – Just 10 Minutes Nearby

A mere 10-minute journey will take you to the heart of Cork, where you’ll discover the iconic English Market. This historic market stands as one of the oldest of its kind globally, boasting a rich tapestry of offerings. 

Wander through its bustling aisles and you’ll find an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, tantalizing homemade treats, and an array of mouthwatering local delicacies. From artisanal cheeses to freshly baked bread, there’s something to tempt every palate. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of this culinary treasure trove.

Elizabeth Fort- Just 10 Minutes Nearby

Elizabeth Fort, a star-shaped fort dating back to the early 17th century, is a must-visit attraction in Cork City. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking breathtaking views, Elizabeth Fort promises an enriching experience. And the best part? It’s just an 8-10 minute drive away!

But that’s not all—Cork City has plenty more to offer. From the tranquil beauty of Fitzgerald Park and the fascinating exhibits at Cork Public Museum to the captivating artworks at Crawford Art Gallery and the iconic landmarks of Shandon, there’s something to captivate every visitor.

With such a wealth of attractions nearby, exploring the area around Tramore Valley Park promises a memorable adventure. So pack your bags and prepare to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cork, often hailed as the “European Capital of Culture.”

FAQ: Tramore Valley Park Visits

Is It Safe?

Concerns about Tramore Valley Park’s safety due to its previous use as a landfill are understandable, but rest assured, the park is perfectly safe. Extensive measures have been taken to ensure its cleanliness and safety.

In fact, a comprehensive €40 million cleaning process was undertaken to remove any potential harmful chemicals from the site. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) closely monitors the park to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Furthermore, the park is equipped with a plastic liner and gas collection pipes, which work to remove any harmful emissions from the site regularly. These measures provide peace of mind to visitors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Tramore Valley Park Cost?

Great news! Admission to Tramore Valley Park is completely free for all visitors. So, you can explore and enjoy all the park has to offer without worrying about any entrance fees. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and make lasting memories without breaking the bank.

Nearby Sights and Attractions?

For sure! You’ll find plenty of awesome attractions just a stone’s throw away from Tramore Valley Park. From the Butter Museum and Fota Wildlife Park to Cork City Gaol and many other places, there’s no shortage of things to see and do nearby.

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