The Quarter
The story of the Victorian Quarter is just beginning. Although we derive our name from the area’s gorgeous Victorian style buildings- which once housed merchants, traders and craftsmen, The V.Q. is now a vibrant, up & coming cultural hub! Unique shops and services attract the people of Cork by day, while top restaurants, pubs, and music venues keep it buzzing after dark.
The story of the Victorian Quarter is just beginning. Although we derive our name from the area’s gorgeous Victorian style buildings- which once housed merchants, traders and craftsmen, The V.Q. is now a vibrant, up & coming cultural hub! Unique shops and services attract the people of Cork by day, while top restaurants, pubs, and music venues keep it buzzing after dark.
Cork’s Victorian Quarter district spans from its easterly boundary at Kent Station- west to Camden Wharf & from Wellington Road to the north- down to the banks of our own lovely Lee. It includes picturesque St. Patrick’s Hill, as well as historic MacCurtain Street at its heart. This location within Cork City places The V.Q conveniently close to transit hubs for residents, commuters, and tourists traveling via bus, coach or train. Check out the complete V.Q. Boundary Map.
By day, visitors can admire the area’s gorgeous Victorian era architecture while strolling along scenic storefronts and shopping unique retail experiences. From eye-glasses to crafting supplies and antiques to far-east spices, the Quarter has so much to offer. Best known for its lively culture of music, entertainment, restaurants & trendy bars, by night the Victorian Quarter transforms into pure Cork.
St Patrick’s Bridge is the gateway to the Victorian Quarter, connecting our neighbourhood with Cork’s high street and beyond. Thousands of people #CrossTheBridge every day into the bustling community. You can ramble along the river or challenge yourself on York Hill; take in a show or learn a new language. The Victorian Quarter is steeped in history and the streets are full of landmarks to explore.
During the 19th century Cork was having a heyday, especially among traders and craftspeople in the Victorian Quarter. This tradition is still carried on today by a quirky mix of well-known specialist stores and iconic landmarks like The Metropole Hotel and The Everyman theatre, which was originally known as Cork’s Palace of Varieties. Established over 100 years ago, the stage has hosted many famous acts. Charlie Chaplin once performed here, and this was also the setting of Rory Gallagher’s final gig. Now restored to its full glory, the theatre is destination for modern and critically acclaimed theatre.
The area is ripe with urban character with such sights as Patrick's Hill, Trinity Presbyterian Church's “The Crooked Spire”, and almost 2 kilometres of riverfront. The city’s industrial legacy is still visible in chimney stacks and beautiful cast-iron details throughout the neighbourhood. Our heritage continues to inspire us we grow and develop a new era in the Victorian Quarter. It is a destination for local, national and international visitors.
Things to Do
