Old City Gaol, Cork

2 Special Visitor Attractions - same location!
This Cork heritage centre is renowned for its wax figures. Step back
in time to see what 19th / early 20th Century life was like in Cork -
inside and outside the prison walls. Amazingly lifelike wax figures,
furnished cells, sound effects and fascinating exhibitions.

One of the most memorable Cork tourist attractions
Cork is a city with a very rich historical and archaeological heritage
- much of it still in evidence today. Part of this heritage, Cork City
Gaol is located 2k n/w from Patrick’s Street and while the
magnificent castle-like building is now a major and unique visitor
attraction, this Gaol once housed 19th century prisoners!
Visitors get a fascinating insight into day-to-day prison life at a time
when the high walls ensured no escape and denied law-abiding
citizens the opportunity to see one of the finest examples of
Ireland's architectural heritage.

Stepping inside visitors are taken back in time to the 19th century.
Wandering through the wings of the Gaol, the atmosphere suggests
you are accompanied by the shuffling feet of inmates, each
representing their particular period in Irish history from pre-famine
times to the foundation of the State. The cells are furnished with
amazingly life-like wax figures; original graffiti on cell walls tell the
innermost feelings of some inmates while a very spectacular audio
visual tells the social history and contrasting lifestyles of 19th c.Cork
and why some people turned to crime, and some ended up in Australia.
This exhibition fascinates visitors of all ages and nationalities and
the tour is available in up to 13 languages

Radio Museum
At the same location and uniquely situated in the former Governor’s
House, is the Radio Museum Experience incorporating the restored
6CK Radio Broadcasting Studio. In addition to an audio visual on
Marconi – and particularly his Irish connections, there is a wonderful
collection of artefacts, including the RTE Collection, providing a
nostalgic trip back to the early days of radio.

Opening times;

  Open 7 days
   throughout the year

   Mar - Oct   09.30am - 5pm
   Nov - Feb   10am - 4pm

  Admission prices;

  Adults; €8.00

  Concessions;
  Student over 17 yrs with card €7.00
  OAP €7.00
  Child/second level student €4.50

  Family Ticket;
  (2 adults and up to 4 children) €24.00