Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's
Climb the historic tower, ring the famous Shandon Bells, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Cork City. An authentic Irish experience!
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb the historic tower, ring the famous Shandon Bells, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Cork City. An authentic Irish experience!
"Super cool experience, not the usual tourist trap bell tower!"
🎯 Ring the Bells!
Don't miss the chance to ring the famous Shandon Bells – it's a highlight!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The climb is steep and narrow; comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ring the Shandon Bells
Bell Tower
Experience the thrill of ringing the iconic Shandon Bells and create your own melody over Cork City.
Panoramic City Views
Tower Summit
Ascend to the top for stunning 360-degree vistas of Cork City and its surroundings.
St. Anne's Church Interior
Church Hall
Explore the historic church, which houses old copies of the library and offers a glimpse into local heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ring in the History
Mind the Steps!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ring the Bells!
Don't miss the chance to ring the famous Shandon Bells – it's a highlight!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The climb is steep and narrow; comfortable footwear is a must.
I've been living in Cork right behind this building for a month now. What is it, what's its history, and why is it the sub's icon?
Things to do in and around Cork
💰 Consider a Donation
The entrance fee is reasonable; a donation helps preserve this historic site.
🕰️ Check Clock Faces
The tower clock shows different times on each face – a quirky detail!
Best spots in Cork with a view to city center?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ring the Bells!
Don't miss the chance to ring the famous Shandon Bells – it's a highlight!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The climb is steep and narrow; comfortable footwear is a must.
💰 Consider a Donation
The entrance fee is reasonable; a donation helps preserve this historic site.
🕰️ Check Clock Faces
The tower clock shows different times on each face – a quirky detail!
🤏 Not for Claustrophobes
The narrow stairways can be tight; be prepared if you dislike enclosed spaces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of ringing the Shandon Bells and the stunning city views from the tower. Many appreciate the authentic, non-touristy feel and the reasonable cost. Some note the narrow, steep climb might be challenging for certain individuals.
"If you visit Cork City don't miss out on this cool experience. You get to climb to the top of the bell tower for amazing views of the City. And along the way you can ring the church bells and climb through the tower as they ring. This was a super cool experience. Visiting the church was also fun for the kids as they hide some little Jesus's around for you to find. We visited on a weekday afternoon and it wasn't crowded."
Bridget Young
"Inexpensive, not touristy, rustic bell tower experience in a 300 year old Church. Feels like you've gained private access as you climb up a super narrow stone staircase, with pleasant pauses at different levels in the tower, and there's no big line to ring the bells. Not the usual tourist trap bell tower. Super narrow dark stone stairway not recommended if you don't like tight spaces, but not a crazy long climb so kids/elderly can easily do it. Stunning views. Consider a donation to the Church because the entrance fee is so reasonable."
Tim S
"Don’t miss this if you’re around Cork ! Climbing up the bell was fun as the space got narrow the more we were reaching the top. Splendid view from the top."
Lorenzo Loconsole
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shandon Bells and Tower of St. Anne's is a short walk from Cork city center, approximately 15-20 minutes. You can also take a local bus. If you're driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited.
Yes, several local bus routes stop near Shandon Bells. It's a convenient option if you're not walking from the city center. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
While driving is possible, parking directly at Shandon Bells can be challenging. Consider using a public car park in the city center and enjoying a pleasant walk to the attraction.
Cycling is a great option in Cork. There are usually bike racks available near attractions, though it's always good to check on arrival. The route from the city center is relatively flat and easy.
The iconic tower is a landmark visible from many parts of Cork, making it relatively easy to find. Follow signs for Shandon or St. Anne's Church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable, making it an inexpensive activity. Consider making a donation to help with the upkeep of this historic church.
Generally, advance booking isn't required for Shandon Bells. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special event ticketing.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Shandon Bells website for the most current information on opening times and any potential closures.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the general admission price is quite affordable. Keep an eye on their website or local tourism sites for potential offers.
The main attraction is the tower climb and bell ringing experience. While you can see the church, the ticket typically covers the full experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb involves narrow, steep stone staircases. It's a unique, rustic experience but not recommended for those with severe claustrophobia or mobility issues. The climb is not excessively long.
Yes, children can absolutely ring the bells! It's a fun and engaging activity for younger visitors.
You'll get stunning panoramic views of Cork City, the River Lee, and the surrounding countryside. It's a fantastic photo opportunity.
Yes, the church hall sometimes exhibits old copies of the library, offering a glimpse into local history.
The climb is manageable for most elderly visitors, but the narrow and steep stairs should be considered. It's advisable to assess personal fitness levels.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots of Cork. Don't forget to capture the unique interior of the narrow staircases and the clock faces.
While you can take photos from the bell-ringing area, be mindful of others and the delicate nature of the bells. Focus on capturing the experience rather than just the bells themselves.
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for city views. Weekday afternoons often mean fewer people, allowing for clearer shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical landmarks. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for the 'little Jesus' figures hidden around the church, which adds an element of fun treasure hunt for younger visitors. The entrance fee is very reasonable, making it an affordable family activity. Just be mindful of the narrow staircases if you have very young children or strollers, though the climb is generally manageable for most families.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Instead of expensive guided tours, you get an authentic, self-guided exploration of a historic tower and the opportunity to ring the famous bells. The panoramic views from the top are a priceless reward. Consider it a highly recommended, cost-effective way to experience a unique aspect of Cork.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Shandon Bells
Beyond their historical role, the Shandon Bells offer a unique interactive experience. Visitors can climb the tower and not only enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Cork but also have the opportunity to ring the bells themselves. This hands-on element makes the visit memorable and distinguishes it from many other historical sites. The church also sometimes houses old library copies, adding another layer of historical interest.
This attraction is celebrated for its authenticity and lack of commercialization. It feels like a genuine piece of Cork's heritage, offering a more intimate and less 'touristy' experience than some other bell towers. The reasonable entrance fee and the chance to contribute through donations further enhance its appeal as a community-supported landmark.
Navigating the Tower Climb
While the climb is not excessively long, it requires a moderate level of fitness. The tight spaces mean it's not ideal for those with severe claustrophobia or significant mobility challenges. However, for most visitors, including children and the elderly, the climb is manageable and well worth the effort. The pauses at different levels provide natural resting spots and unique perspectives.
Upon reaching the summit, you're rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Cork City. This vantage point offers an unparalleled perspective of the city's layout, the River Lee, and the surrounding landscape. It's a prime spot for photography and for simply soaking in the atmosphere of Cork.
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