Diego Rayle

Getting to Cork for a short break is easy as there are direct flights with Jet 2 Airlines who operate a regular service from Newcastle to Cork and a great fares. When you get there you have a great selection of accommodation to choose from. There are Bed and breakfast properties to five star luxury in the Hayfield Manor Hotel located a short walk from the centre of Cork.Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland and is the principal city of County Cork. The city's name comes from the Irish word corcach which, means marshy place. The River Lee flows through the city into Lough Mahon, which creates one of the world's biggest natural harbours. It is no surprise that Cork is a major seaport with quays and docks.Thanks to St. Finbarr who founded the City way back in the sixth century and then got recognition as a city in 1185 when it received its charter by King John. Due to its natural harbour Cork became a major trading port particularly with its trade with Scandinavian merchants. However not all of the visitors to Cork came looking for trade and Cork was regularly attacked by the Vikings and Norsemen.The climate in the Cork region is mild, moist and changeable with lots of rain however it does not usually face extreme temperatures and weather. Cork is a foggy city and has an average of around a hundred days of fog a year. Despite the fog Cork is also one of the sunniest cities in Ireland with an average of nearly four hours of sunshine every day.Attractions to see in Cork include Blarney Castle and Charles Fort or even a visit to the Greyhound Stadium. Should you wish to explore the surrounding countryside and beautiful coastline then it would be a good idea to hire a car. One of the more famous buildings in Cork is the Church Tower of Shandon, which is in the northern part of the city. There are some great historic walks you can do in and around the city as well as some interesting ones a short drive away.Shops ranging from market stalls to boutiques offering the latest fashion from famous designer labels. There are lots of different shopping centres and areas including the most popular St Patrick's Street, which is a pedestrian area. The restaurants range from the usual fast food restaurants as seen anywhere in the world to some of the more specialized ones offering excellent cuisine.