The first time I visited Cork City, my itinerary was stuffed with must-see places like Blarney Castle, the English Market, Cork City Gaol, and Elizabeth Fort. After a couple of days spent hopping from one site to the next, though, I began to crave a little time away from the city’s actual buzz. This was when I found Tramore Valley Park—the actual highlight of my trip. If you’re thinking of going to Cork soon or need a retreat from the city, this guide will have everything you need to know about Tramore Valley Park, from my own experiences and tips to make your visit unforgettable.
What Tramore Valley Park Offers
It is not just a park, but a sustainable model of nature restoration and the spirit of community. It covers almost 160 acres—one of the largest city parks in Ireland. For comparison, that’s about the size of 127 American football fields. What makes this park so great is its history: it was once a landfill site with over 3 million tonnes of waste. Now, it has been transformed into a beautiful green oasis teeming with wildlife, wetlands, and recreational opportunities. You can see that it is dedicated to maintaining environmental protection and sustainable practices wherever you look. It’s also meaningful to me because I experienced the transformation firsthand. This park is not just a park; it’s a symbol of hope and renewal.
Getting There: Get Directions to Tramore Valley Park
Location
Southside of Cork City, on the Kinsale Road Roundabout, south of the city is Tramore Valley Park. Its address is: Tramore Valley Park, Tramore Rd, S City Link Rd, Ballinlough, Cork, T12 AE86, Ireland.
By Car
It is convenient to access the park by car. The main entrance for vehicles is located directly opposite the Black Ash Park and Ride on the South Link Road. The park is very user-friendly, with about 500 spaces available for cars and bicycles. During my visit, I found plenty of spots without any stress, even during peak hours.
By Bike or On Foot
For those who prefer eco-friendly transport modes, there are two entrances for pedestrians/cyclists:
- Eastern Park Walkway, adjacent to Willow Park.
- Half Moon Lane, near Christ King Secondary School.
I went for an early stroll along the Eastern Park Walkway, which offers the best scenic entrance to the park after the morning light.
Public Transport
- Bus: Number 213 runs approximately every 30 minutes from South Mall to Black Ash Park in just eight minutes. A few minutes’ walk gets you to the park.
- Train: For train users, the nearest available station is Cork (Kent), about a 14-minute walk from the park.
Opening Hours: Plan Your Visit
The park opens daily, but with seasonal variations in hours:
- Winter (October-March): 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Summer (June-July): 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
During my summer visits, I adored being able to catch long evening strolls through the park and witness the golden sunset views. For the most accurate and updated information, please check Tramore Valley Park Opening Hours.
The Fascinating History of Tramore Valley Park
From Landfill to Lush Greenery
Many years ago, Tramore Valley Park was conceived as a landfill site. The site opened in the early 1960s as the Kinsale Road Landfill Site, where rubbish from Cork homes and businesses accumulated for over 35 years. By the time it was closed in July 2009, the site was home to a staggering 3 million tonnes of rubbish. Instead of simply letting it lie idle, Cork County Council started an ambitious project to convert the area into a lively public space. They spent €40 million cleaning and restoring the land to the point where it became safe for visitation by the general public, while also conserving its natural habitats. A local wildlife expert, William O’Halloran, was instrumental in surveying the area and securing its ecosystem. Today, there are many different species of plants and animals within the park, including rare birds and flourishing wetlands. I walked through the park in sheer awe, pondering how such a barren site could have turned into a refuge for both people and nature.
Activities at Tramore Valley Park
- Robert Heffernan Walk – Circle Trail (Length: 2.5 km)
This walking trail bears the name of Olympian and former World Champion race walker Robert Heffernan. It takes you through the wetlands of the park, where people admire the many plants and animals. Some of the signs provide very informative details on the local wildlife. During the course of this walk, I observed different species of birds and even learned about some unique plant species found in this area. For nature lovers, it’s the best for staying active. - BMX Track
Nothing beats an adrenaline junkie more than the International Standard BMX Track found here in the park—the first and only of its kind in Cork. It operates as follows: The Cork BMX Club is available during training hours:
Saturday and Sunday: 1 PM – 4 PM; Wednesday: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM. For those of you who don’t do BMX, it’s quite an experience to watch riders at the track. - The Dome
Located right within the heart of the park, this raised location allows visitors to view the city of Cork from miles away. When the weather is clear, you might see the Shandon Bells or the Elysian Tower. So, I spent a lot of time here enjoying the view and taking a lot of pictures. - Rugby Pitch
This large rugby field is for sports enthusiasts to use for matches and practice sessions. It is possible to pre-book it with permission from Glen Resource Centre and Cork City Council. - Outdoor Gym
For fitness enthusiasts, the outdoor gym, a newly added feature to the park, is a great attraction situated in the southwest corner of the park. It is free to use during park hours. - Picnics and Relaxation
If you go with family or friends, take a picnic basket and enjoy good food under the open sky. Scattered all over the park are shaded areas and benches for picnicking.
Attraction Hunt Nearby
The proximity of Tramore Valley Park to other historical attractions is one of its great merits. A few nearby attractions are definitely worth an excursion:
- Blarney Castle (20 Minutes Away)
Nothing else will complete a trip to Cork without the good luck bestowed upon an individual after kissing the Blarney Stone. According to legend, one who kisses it shall receive the “gift of eloquence.” - English Market (10 Minutes Away)
The English Market is a paradise for food lovers and one of the oldest covered markets in the world. I went on to treat myself to fresh seafood, artisan cheese, and baked goods. - Cork City Gaol (16 Minutes Away)
An interesting site to visit, Cork City Gaol offers a tour through a series of ancient cells and into a more recent prison building. The fortress-like building provides a fascinating insight into 19th-century penal life. - Elizabeth Fort (10 Minutes Away)
The star-shaped fort is brimming with history and offers a beautiful vantage point from which to admire Cork City. If you are into history or looking for a place to take some great pictures, it is definitely worth visiting. A few other attractions that call for appreciation are Fitzgerald Park, Cork Public Museum, and Fota Wildlife Park.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tramore Valley Park Visitations
- Is It Safe?
For sure! It is an ex-landfill, but it has gone through extensive safety measures, including a €40 million cleanup process, where the site was fitted with plastic liners and gas collection pipes to get rid of harmful emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors the site regularly. - What Is the Fee?
Well, it’s completely free of any charges! - What Should You Bring?
Comfortable shoes to walk or cycle in. A camera to capture the wonderful scenery. Some snacks or a picnic lunch. Some layers, as the weather can change suddenly in Cork. - Are There Any Restrooms?
There are public toilet facilities located at the frontline entrance.
Final Thoughts
Tramore Valley Park has surpassed all my expectations. It turned out to be the perfect place to reconnect with nature, keep fit, and learn more about Cork’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, all within easy reach of the city center. In simple words, it’s a must-see for both residents and travelers. So let’s do some packing, tie up the walking shoes, and prepare the mind because Tramore Valley Park is all set to become the hidden jewel in the crown jewels of Cork City. Happy Exploring!
