Trip Planner: Europe / Ireland / Province of Munster / County Cork / Kinsale / Charles Fort

Charles Fort, Kinsale

4.7

#1 of 53 in Things to do in Kinsale

Must see · Historic Site · Tourist Spot

Create an itinerary including Charles Fort

A fine example of a star-shaped military structure, Charles Fort once served as an important part of a waterfront defense system designed to resist cannon attacks. Built in the 1670s on the site of a medieval castle, the fort remained in use until 1922, playing a key role in some of the most important battles in Irish history. Two giant bastions, the fort's main features, overlook the water, while three others face inland. To learn the history behind the fort's weather-beaten walls and see what remains of the old military barracks and support facilities, join a daily guided tour, available year-round. The tour involves a walk on rocky terrain, so bring appropriate footwear. Use our Kinsale trip itinerary website to arrange your visit to Charles Fort and other attractions in Kinsale.

Create a full itinerary - for free!

Tours to Charles Fort

FROM $60 BOOK WITH VIATOR Shore Excursion From Cork: Including Blarney Castle and Kinsale Shore Excursion From Cork: Including Blarney Castle and Kinsale

4.6

Duration: 8 hours

Tours from $60 ›

FROM $80 BOOK WITH VIATOR Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion

4.9

Duration: 8 hours

Tours from $80 ›

FROM $3,264 BOOK WITH VIATOR Beautiful Southwest Tour 2022 Beautiful Southwest Tour 2022

5.0

Duration: 8 days

Tours from $3,264 ›

FROM $230 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery

4.7

Duration: 8 hours

Tours from $230 ›

FROM $560 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private Wild Atlantic Day Tour from Cork Private Wild Atlantic Day Tour from Cork

5.0

Duration: 8 to 9 hours

Tours from $560 ›

Charles Fort reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor traveler rating

2,260 reviews

Google

4.7

By Ann C

Well worth going, Charles Fort is an extensive star shaped fortress that was fun to explore. The fort is one of Ireland's largest military installations and is still well preserved considering its...

Well worth going, Charles Fort is an extensive star shaped fortress that was fun to explore. The fort is one of Ireland's largest military installations and is still well preserved considering its... more »
By E4124UWjosephk

Brought my kids here over the mid term break. The information and audio visuals are very good and user friendly. Amazing piece of history which played such an important part in Irish and World...

Brought my kids here over the mid term break. The information and audio visuals are very good and user friendly. Amazing piece of history which played such an important part in Irish and World... more »

See more on TripAdvisor ›

Google

By Andre Hackart

An impressive structure guarding the entrance to the bay. James Fort is on the other side of the bay in Kinsale. Charles fort is by far the more impressive if the 2 as it's still in very good condition. James Fort you are free to enter , Charles fort there is an entrance fee. We also took a walk around Charles fort so we could see it from a distance and get some good pictures over the water , it's very impressive and worth a visit. Parking is right at the entrance

more less
By Victoria Ortiz

Amazing fort. You can't imagine how big and beautiful it is until you cross the entrance door. Breathtaking views of the buildings with the sea as a background. You can spend some good time walking around them and taking lovely pictures.

more less

See more on Google ›

Plan your trip to Kinsale

Get a personalized trip

A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences

Customize it

Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules

Book it

Choose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off

Manage it

Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.

Know more