Midleton

The Historic Town of Midleton in East Cork, Ireland has its origins dating back to the 12th century. Midleton derives its name from 'Mainistir na Corann' meaning 'The Abbey of the Coir'. This came from the monastery, which was founded by the Cistercian monks in the early part of the 12th century. In the 19th Century the monastery was destroyed.

Midleton is the Hub of East Cork, with its rich agricultural hinterland. It has long been renowned for fine food and drink. Award-winning restaurants, intimate cafes, quaint old pubs and modern lounge bars provide a choice to suit all tastes.

The jewel in the crown is the Jameson Distillery Midleton, which welcomes tourists from around the world for a glass of Jameson Irish Whiskey.

Legend has it that it was here in Ireland that whiskey was invented. To this day, the finest whiskey is distilled by the Irish and every year thousands of visitors come to Midleton to taste the magic of Irish whiskey for themselves.

This beautiful 18th century Midleton distillery has been carefully and lovingly restored. The memorable visit comprises an audio-visual presentation available in six languages and then a guided tour of the old distillery. And after the history comes the tasting.

Visitors relax in the atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub to sample the spirit of Ireland for themselves. Afterwards there's a chance to browse in the unique gift shop or relax in the elegant coffee shop.

Midleton, traditionally the principal market town of the area, offers visitors a wide choice of high fashion, hand-made lace and linen, fine porcelain dolls, designer knitwear and interesting antiques. The Midleton Area offers a wide choice of excellent accommodation with four-star hotels, guesthouses, town and country homes, farmhouse accommodation, self-catering and caravan and camping parks.

Visitors to Midleton will be surprised to find a beautiful sculpture commissioned in remembrance of the generosity of the Choctaw people, who themselves in difficult times, sent food aid to Ireland on hearing of their plight in the famine. The sculpture named "Kindred Spirits", was designed by Cork-based sculptor Alex Pentek, a beautiful piece especially with the sunlight shining on it.

Midleton is the ideal centre for visiting East Cork's many pleasant beaches, with excellent shore and lake fishing. It is also home to one of the best-known sea angling centres in the country. Scenic drives, sailing centres, wind-surfing, golf and pitch and putt complement the cultural attractions of this most intimate tourist location.

There is a regular train service from Cork City which stops in Midleton, and there is also a very good road network into Midleton.

East Cork Visitor Attractions:

Barryscourt Castle at Carrigtwohill restored to its ancient splendour with its fruit and herb gardens and a lovely coach house to the side of it. Located in a peaceful setting in Carrigtwohill just 10 minutes drive from Midleton.

Trabolgan Holiday Village situated on the beautiful coast amid unspoilt countryside, down from Midleton, offers the family an exciting range of activities including indoor pool, children's safari jungle, sauna, plunge pool, fitness center, solarium and par-3 golf. A place where you and the children will never be bored.

Midleton's hinterland is abundant with quaint villages. Driving east, enjoy the trout-stocked Loughaerra Lake, with its picnic tables and walks.

Fota Wildlife Park, House & Gardens Fota Island is just a 10 minute drive from Midleton an ideal family day out in East Cork and equally for all golf lovers there is the Fota Island Golf Club all accessible by train or car.

Castlemartyr, lying east of Midleton, was established in the 17th century by Richard Boyle, the Great Earl of Cork.

Turning south, Ladysbridge is the next village encountered. Here the ancient art of thatching is still to be seen.

Shanagarry, famous for its pottery and cookery school, is the birthplace of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania State.

Garryvoe is home to one the areas three Blue Flag beaches. The safe waters make the beach an ideal bathing place.

Ballycotton, south of Shanagarry, is a small fishing village perched on the coastline overlooking Ballycotton Bay. With a spectacular cliff walk rising 200ft above sea level and the only black light house located off the coastline, Ballycotton is renowned for its sea angling, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Further inland, Cloyne, with its 11th century Round Tower, is famous for two Bishops. Bishop Berkeley has a Californian University named after him and Bishop Brinkely was the first Astronomer Royal for Ireland.

HISTORIC EAST CORK If you're fascinated by history, places and the stories of people and the way of life both past and present, then East Cork will offer you all you could ask for and more. There are almost 100 sites you can visit, some of them off the beaten track, others in the middle of towns. With kind permission East Cork Tourism

Midleton FAQ's

What is Midleton known for?

Midleton is in the hub of East Cork and it's renowned for fine food and drink including the famous Jameson Distillery, Farmers Market, and its proximity to Fota Wildlife Park, Trabolgan Holiday Village, Fota Island Golf Course and the many Blue Flag Beaches that are nearby.

How far is Midleton to Cobh?

Midleton is 18 km from Cobh. If you take the train you will need to change in Glounthaune village with a wait of upto 50 minutes. Visit Cobh.

Do I need hire a car to tour East Cork?

If you plan on travelling outside of Cork City, a rental car will certainly help as public service transport connection between many of the top attractions is poor. Cork city car hire

How far is Midleton from Cork City?

Midleton is just 24 km from Cork City, , if you are not driving you can catch a train from Cork City Rail Station or a Bus at Cork City Bus Station.

How long do you need in Midleton?

A couple of days Jameson Distillery will take the best part of a morning to tour. An afternoon to stroll through the town, sample the farm produce, visit the shops and see the Choctaw sculpture. Fota Wildlife Park is fun day out for the whole family, add some extra days if you want to visit the Blue Flag Beaches or take in a round of golf. Visit East Cork.