Category: Renting Local Area Guides

Posted on

10 Reasons to Live in the South of Cork City

Thinking about making a move to Cork’s South Side? Homes in this area enjoy close proximity to every amenity a person could want while also providing easy access to the City Centre and beautiful countryside. Here are our reasons to live in the south of Cork City.

 

Take a look at our guide below to discover more about what it’s like to live in the areas of Douglas, Rochestown, Togher, The Lough and Ballyphehane.

10 Reasons to Live on the South Side of Cork City

 

 

Reasons to Live

1. Shopping 

There are plenty of options for retail therapy in the South Cork area. For homewares and electronics, the Kinsale Road has an unbeatable range of stores including Homestore + More, Woodies, Harvey Norman and Smiths Toys. 

 

Boasting two large shopping centres, Douglas is another good spot for shopping. Douglas Village Shopping Centre has a plethora of popular stores and cafés including Starbucks, TK Maxx, Born Clothing and Tesco. Just a short walk away, you will find Douglas Court Shopping Centre – a very well equipped facility with a diverse array of stores including Vera Moda, Boots, Arts & Hobby and Dunnes Stores. One of the many great reasons to live in the south of Cork city.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Douglas Village (@douglas_village)

 

2. Nature Spots 

 

One of the most popular walking spots in the city, the Lough is one of Ireland’s oldest protected wildlife refuges. The Lough is a small freshwater lake that is home to a wide array of waterfowl and fish. The Lough Loop walk is just shy of 1km and is ideal for jogging, walking the dog or even just enjoying a casual stroll with a coffee. Our advice? Make sure to pop by in the late spring to see all the cute little ducklings!

 

 

Known locally as “The Mangala”, Ballybrack Woods in Douglas offers a pleasant 1.2km looped trail for walkers and cyclists. This once dilapidated glen was recently brought back to glory by the local community. Renovations are ongoing and planned improvements include the creation of a wildlife meadow. During your visit, be sure to keep an eye out for herons and bats!

 

Blackrock, Co Cork Reasons to Live

 

For a more substantial walk, why not try the Greenway from Harty’s Quay in Rochestown to Blackrock Castle? Clocking in at almost 5.5km, this scenic route will allow you to take in the sights of Cork Harbour as well as the Douglas Estuary. After your walk, do yourself a favour and take a well-deserved break at the beautiful Castle Café Restaurant. More over, the surrouding scenery is a another of the main reasons to live in the south of the city.

 

3. Ease of Travel 

 

One of the key benefits of living south of Cork City is the ease with which you can get around. 

 

The N40, or South Ring Road, is a useful route that takes you from the Dunkettle Interchange outside Mahon all the way to Ballincollig. The road connects you to many towns including Ballincollig, Bishopstown, Wilton, Turner’s Cross, and Douglas. 

 

Another major advantage of moving to Cork’s South-Side is the proximity to the Cork International Airport. While many airports are a long commute from the closest city, Cork Airport is conveniently located close to the Kinsale Road Roundabout and is just a ten-minute drive away from the city centre. As such, this makes the area a great home base for frequent travellers. 

 

Recent years have seen major improvements to the bus network in the area. As such, Cork’s Southern suburbs now enjoy a frequent, cheap and reliable bus network. One particularly handy service is the 220 – Cork’s only 24-hour bus route – that takes you from Crosshaven to Ovens via Carrigaline, Douglas, Cork City, UCC, and Bishopstown. 

 

4. Food 

 

Highlights in Douglas include On Pig’s Back Café/Deli which serves up a tasty array of farmhouse cheeses, award-winning pates, charcuterie, and French specialities. Another local favourite is Haveli Indian Restaurant which offers up some of the finest Indian food in Cork. 

 

Lovers of Italian food must make a point of stopping by Sicilian Delights – a small deli tucked away on Magazine Road that serves up classic Sicilian fare including pasta, paninis, cakes and (this writer’s all-time favourite) cannoli. 

 


Another gem worth mentioning is the Cinnamon Cottage which is located in a charming Edwardian cottage on the Rochestown Road. Since its arrival in 1994, Cinnamon Cottage has developed a strong reputation for its mouth-watering baked goods and ready-made dinners. Also, included in the numerous great reasons to live in the South of City!

 

5. Nightlife 

 

October 22 will hopefully see the lifting of remaining social distancing restrictions – meaning that nightclubs will be allowed to reopen their doors and that pubs and restaurants can remain open after 11.30 pm. With nights out back on the cards, you may want to learn more about your local options. 

 

Douglas is one of the liveliest spots outside of the City Centre. The village boasts many different pubs and bars. Local favourites include O’Sullivans (affectionately dubbed ‘Johnnos’ by locals), East Village and Barrys. What’s more, Douglas is on the 24-hour 220 bus route so you can cheaply and easily travel in and out of Cork City. 

 

For those seeking spots for post-match celebrations/commiserations, Turner’s Cross is the place to go. This area features several popular watering holes including the Turner’s Cross Tavern and The Beer Garden.

 

6. Access the Coast

 

If you have the day off and are looking to do some exploration, why not go further south and discover some of Cork Harbour’s most scenic spots? 

 

For a relaxed day by the seaside, we recommend heading out to Crosshaven. In this writer’s opinion, there’s simply no better spot on a sunny day! Be sure to take in panoramas of the harbour from Camden Fort Meagher – a 400-year old coastal fort boasting a rich history.

 

You can also take the bikes and cycle alongside the river on the picturesque Carrigaline – Crosshaven Greenway. Swimmers can take a dip in the local beaches – Fountainstown and Myrtleville. 

 

If you wish to go further afield, you can follow the Kinsale Road to Kinsale. A popular spot with locals and tourists alike, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied here. History-buffs can discover local lore at Charles Fort and the Old Head of Kinsale. Keen hikers can tackle the 6km Scilly Walk Loop which offers many pretty vistas of the town. You can also travel out to the nearby beaches at the Dock or Garrettstown to partake in a diverse array of water sports, including sailing, kayaking, surfing and more. And of course, the food! Kinsale is widely known as Ireland’s Gourmet capital for its staggering range of top-quality restaurants, takeaways, cafés and stores. 

 

Kinsale, Co. Cork Reasons to Live

 

7. Sports/Fitness

 

Sports and fitness enthusiasts will be pleased to know that there is a wide variety of activities in the area. 

 

Dennehy’s Health & Fitness in Douglas offers a state-of-the-art gym, personal training and fitness classes. Alternatively, you can check out Obodo – a CrossFit gym located on the South Douglas Road. 

 

If you’re looking to watch a match, then Turner’s Cross is your spot. This area boasts two of the largest stadiums in the City – the Turner’s Cross Stadium (home of Cork City FC) and Musgrave Park (home to Dolphin RFC and Sundays Well RFC).  

 

Those living in the Togher/Pouladuff area can test their mettle and develop killer skills at the Krav Maga Institute Cork. Togher is also home to Olympian Rob Heffernan’s Athletics Club which offers training to people of all ages. 

 

Sports fans living in the Maryborough/Rochestown area are lucky to have the Garyduff Sports Centre on their doorstep. One of the best-equipped facilities in the county, Garyduff features hockey and football pitches, tennis and badminton courts, as well as a Pitch and Putt course and a Bowling Green. This is a key factor in reasons to live in the South of the City.

 

8. Beauty & Wellness 

 

The Maryborough House Hotel boasts one of the most luxurious spas in all of Cork. The spa is well-equipped with a vitality pool, rock sauna, steam room, ice fountain, lifestyle showers and laconium. The treatment menu has something for everyone including facials, massages, wraps, and more. 

 


If you fancy treating yourself to a trip to the Nail salon, then we highly recommend New York Nails on the South Douglas Road. Modelled after US-style nail bars, this stylish salon provides a range of services including manicures, pedicures, and brow styling. 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by New York Nails (@newyorknailscork)


Need to sort out your lockdown locks? If so, book an appointment at Amy Michelle Hairdressing – one of the best hair salons in the South Side. This salon is particularly well-known for specialising in extensions and even has its own range of products – Refine Hair Extensions. The salon is owned by Amy Shanahan, an award-winning stylist who has extensive industry experience including working backstage at London Fashion Week, styling the stars on X Factor, as well as many different celebrities.

 

9. Schools

 

The South Side of Cork is a popular choice for families due to the wide range of high-quality primary and secondary school options. Schools in the area include single-sex/mixed schools, religious/non-denominational schools, English-speaking/Irish-speaking schools. To learn more about schools in the region, visit the Department of Education’s website. See below for a comprehensive map detailing all of the primary and secondary schools in Cork’s South Side region. 

 

10. Cost of Renting 

 

Cork’s southern suburbs have a lower cost of rent than in the City Centre. Plus, lower housing density means that you are more likely to find a larger property with a garden. Cork’s suburbs have excellent amenities and strong transport links, meaning that you will enjoy all the benefits of city-centre living without the eye-watering cost.  To explore more rental properties in the area, visit HomeHak.com. Are you looking for a house in Cork? We hope you enjoyed our top reasons to live in the South of Cork City!

 

Create your Tenant CV today and stand out from the crowd!

Posted on

Living on the NorthSide of Cork City – HomeHak’s Guide to Making the Most!

Thinking about making a move to Ireland’s “Real Capital”? Living in the north of Cork allows you to access many useful amenities. Also enjoy equal proximity to the City Centre and beautiful countryside. Here is HomeHak’s guide to living on the Northside of the City.

 

Check out our guide below to learn more about what it’s like to live in the areas of Blackpool, Blarney and Glanmire.

 

10 Reasons to Live on the NorthSide of Cork City

 

 

1. Excellent Employment Prospects

Over the years, the North Side of Cork City has attracted many global names. As such, it has become an attractive location for professionals seeking new opportunities and career progression.

 

Many say that Cork’s tech journey began in 1980 with the opening of Apple’s European headquarters in Holyhill. Fast-forward 40 years and Apple now employs more than 6,000 people from over 90 nationalities. 

 

Another significant employer in the area is Teamwork in Blackpool. Founded in 2007 by Corkonians Peter Coppinger and Dan Mackey, today the SAAS company is one of Cork’s biggest success stories and has established a reputation as being one of the best tech employers in the region. 

 

 

Travel a little further outside of the city and you will find Little Island. Home to approximately one thousand businesses, this area is one of Cork’s employment hotspots. Many global brands have set up bases here including Eli Lilly, PepsiCo and Janssen. One reason living on the north of Cork city is attractive!

 

2. Stunning Nature Spots

If you enjoy nature walks, then Blarney may be the right place for you. For a small fee, you can explore the exquisite Blarney Castle Gardens – a 60-acre parkland encompassing gardens, avenues, arboretums and waterways. Other nearby walking trails include the Clogheenmilcon Sanctuary Walk and the River Martin Public Walk. 

 

Blarney Castle, Cork

 

Once described by Vanity Fair author W.M. Thackery as a “beautiful wooded village”, the area of Glanmire has long been known for its natural offerings. History buffs will enjoy the heritage walks through the town whereas ramblers will appreciate the variety of walking trails. Kids big and small will also enjoy the recently installed Rocky Road Fairy Trail. Additonally, another reason living on the Northside of the city is beneficial!

 

3. Ease of Travel

The towns and villages across North Cork are well connected by road networks and public transport. 

 

Those living in the north of Cork in places like Blarney and Blackpool can benefit from the N20 Cork-Limerick road. You can also take the 215 bus which connects Blarney and Blackpool with Cork City, Ballinlough and Mahon Point retail park. 

 

The proximity of the N8 Cork-Dublin road and the Dunkettle Interchange makes Glanmire a handy spot for commuters. The town is also served by two bus routes – the 221 to Cork City Centre and the 214 to Bishopstown/Wilton. What’s more, Kent Train Station is just a short drive away, making trips to Dublin, Kerry and Limerick much easier. 

 

Those working in Little Island can choose from a range of commute options including the train and a new Cork Connects Bus Route.  Moreover, on more reason living on the Northside of the city is great!

 

4. Enjoy a Taste of Cork

Want to treat yourself to something special? Fortunately, the Northern area of Cork has a wealth of options to choose from depending on your mood. 

 

Blarney is home to many fine eateries chief among which is The Square Table. In a review from the Irish Examiner, the restaurant was lauded for its offering of “what appears to be simple, unpretentious food … but it is also superbly sourced produce, cannily rendered with sound technique as balanced, deeply flavoursome dishes, that make for very pleasurable eating.” Another local favourite is The Lemon Tree 

 

Located in a period-style greenhouse on the grounds of the former convent, The Garden Café in Blackpool boasts a drool-worthy lunch menu. The café claims to be the greenest “Greenest café in Cork City”, their menu is made up of seasonal produce sourced from their own community garden allotment.

 

Glanmire has a diverse array of eating options. For old-fashioned luxury, try the Barn Restaurant which specialises in innovative cooking that showcases the very best seasonal ingredients. For something more casual but just as flavoursome, the Asian fusion takeaway Soba is a safe bet. Local gastropub District 11 is the perfect spot for meeting with friends over al fresco pints and delicious food. 

 

5. Discover North Cork & The Blackwater Valley

Looking for new spots to explore? Residents of Blackpool and Blarney need only follow the N20 until they reach the area of Mallow. From there, it is just a 15-minute drive to Doneraile Court & Wildlife Park. The park is made up of 166 hectares of Georgian-style landscaped gardens and stunning water features. After rambling the grounds, you can also call into the Townhouse Café for a classic afternoon tea. 

 

Alternatively, you could make your way to the Donkey Sanctuary in nearby Liscarroll. Founded in 1987, The Donkey Sanctuary is now home to more than 130 rescue donkeys and mules. The charity has an open farm where you can amble along the winding walkways and say hello to the friendly donkeys. Although admission is free, we recommend making a donation to help ensure the continued well-being of the animals. 

 

For those in Glanmire, adventure awaits along the M8. Keen hikers will enjoy picturesque walks in Kilbarry Wood and the Corrin Trail – both of which are located just a short distance away from Fermoy.  

 

6. Top-Tier Sports & Fitness Amenities

Cork’s North Side boasts a wide range of options for fitness enthusiasts. The Glen Resource Centre is one of the finest sports and recreation amenities in the county. This facility offers a tremendously diverse array of activities including boxing, football, tennis, an adventure centre and even an artificial ski slope! 

 

For a more low-key activity, why not book a day on the green at Cork Golf Club in Little Island? Founded in 1888, the beautiful course was given a makeover in 1925 by Augusta’s very own Alister MacKenzie. 

 

7. Retail Therapy

Want to treat yourself to some retail therapy? Blackpool’s shopping district has everything your need and more.  From global brands to local boutiques, top retailers in the area include Sports Direct, SoundStore, Woodie’s, Next, Argos and much, much more. When you’re all done, you can reward yourself with a sweet treat from Hasset’s Bakery or even catch the latest release at The Reel Picture. 

 

If you’ve recently started renting a home in Glanmire and want to make some home improvements, then the Eastgate Retail Park in Little Island should be your first port of call. Stores here include The Range, EZ Living Interiors, Harvey Norman and more. 

 

8. Access to Top Beauty Salons

After having to deal with the horror of lockdown locks, many of us began to really appreciate the value of having access to top quality hair and beauty salons. Fortunately, those living in Cork’s North Side have a wealth of top stylists, beauticians and nail bars at their fingertips (which are in desperate need of some TLC). 

 

3 Degrees Hair Design in Blackpool was first opened in 2009 by sisters Estelle, Ciara and Hayleigh. This much-loved spot offers a range of services including hair design, make-up, and eyebrows. Featuring lush and stylish interiors from Flamingo Interior Design, you are sure to feel like a movie star from the second you step inside this fabulous salon. 

 

Conveniently located in Glanmire’s Crestfield shopping centre, Shirley’s Beauty & Laser Clinic is a multi-award-winning salon. Staffed by a team of highly experienced experts, this salon offers a diverse range of services including hair removal, skincare and make-up. 

 

For something more indulgent, why not hop in the car and make the short trip to Little Island where you will find the luxurious Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa. This facility boasts nine relaxing treatment rooms and suites in which you can receive a wide array of treatments including facials, massages, wraps and more. 

 

9. Schools

Glanmire and Blarney are popular choices for families due to the wide range of school options. 

 

Schools in Glanmire

  • Gaelscoil Ui Drisceoil – A non-denominational all-mixed Irish-speaking primary school 
  • Lower Glanmire NS – An all-mixed Catholic ethos primary school 
  • Riverstown NS – An all-mixed Catholic ethos primary school 
  • S N Cill Ruadhain – An all-mixed Catholic ethos primary school 
  • Upper Glanmire NS – An all-mixed Catholic ethos primary school 
  • Glanmire Community College – An all-mixed inter-denominational secondary school 
  • Cólaiste an Phiarsaigh – A Catholic-ethos all-mixed Irish-speaking secondary school 

 

Schools in Blarney

    • Cloghroe Mixed N S – An all-mixed Catholic ethos primary school
    • Gaelscoil Mhuscraí – A Catholic-ethos all-mixed Irish-speaking primary school 
    • Scoil Chroí Íosa – An all-mixed Catholic ethos primary school
    • Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal – An all-mixed Catholic ethos secondary school 

 

Stock Image: https://www.dreamstime.com/village-cork-ireland-beautiful-view-autumn-orange-leaves-river-reflection-amazing-glanmire-village-cork-ireland-beautiful-view-image164467174#_ 

10. Cheaper to Rent than in the City Centre

By moving to the North of Cork City, you will enjoy significantly lower rental costs. For example, Daft’s 2021 Q1 rental report reveals that the average monthly rent for a double bedroom was €502 in the city centre versus €427 in nearby commuter towns. What’s more, rental properties in Blarney and Glanmire tend to be larger and more suited to family living. You will have all the key amenities in close proximity and the city centre is just a short trip away. 

 

Are you looking for a place in Cork? Then start by creating your HomeHak Tenant CV today to stand out from the crowd!

 

 

 

Posted on

Rent a Home in Cork: HomeHak’s Guide To 10 Things You Should Know

Are you thinking about living in Cork? Want to rent a home in this beautiful area? Check out this guide to discover ten things you need to know about the Rebel County.

 

 

 

Cork is a beautiful city and county. There are many reasons why it has been voted as one of the best cities in the world to visit by Lonely Planet, and all those reasons apply to living in Cork too. But what makes life in the Rebel County so special and you would want to rent a home there?

 

If you could move anywhere, then why not rent a home in Cork as it has everything you could ever want, and more! Young people will enjoy the vibrant nightlife and active sports scene, while families will enjoy the short commute times and low crime rates. Professionals can benefit from Cork’s thriving tech cluster and graduates will be able to find a great job with ease. Couples looking for somewhere affordable to settle down should look no further than Cork – it’s got fantastic schools, beautiful beaches and some of Ireland’s most picturesque countryside. 

 

There are lots of things that make this city unique such as its relaxed lifestyle, friendly people, cultural diversity, family-friendly spaces and the perfect mix of modern amenities with old-fashioned charm.

 

One of the fastest-growing city regions in Ireland, Cork City is in a period of exciting growth and is expected to reach a population of 350,000 over the next twenty years. So why are so many people moving to Cork? In this guide, we will look at some of the factors that are pulling people towards life in the Rebel County. 

 

 

10 Reasons to Live on the West Side of Cork City

 

 

1. A Buzzing Nightlife Scene

One-third of Cork’s population is made up of students, so it’s no surprise that the city boasts a thriving nightlife. Night-time revellers can take their pick from a wide array of choices from cocktail bars, craft brewery pubs, clubs and traditional Irish pubs. In fact, Cork City has been awarded the Purple Flag not one but three times. This award is “an international designation which highlights and celebrates excellence in specific areas of the evening and night-time economy.” 

 

Cork-City-Night
Photo by Yves Alarie on Unsplash

 

2. Enjoy Some of The Best Food in Ireland

“As a foodie, I’ve really missed eating out with the girls. In particular, I’m looking forward to our first bottomless brunch (has to be Dwyer’s!) once the restaurants re-open. In the meantime, I’ve been perfecting the art of brunch at home with fresh ingredients from the English Market.” – Emma

 

Cork City and County are top foodie destinations. Brimming with artisan food producers, Cork produces some of the tastiest produce in Ireland which you can purchase in one of Cork’s many famous markets. The city centre features a vibrant culinary scene and offers a diverse range of restaurants, cafés, delis and bakeries catering to every taste. However, those looking to travel further afield can discover many foodie hotspots including Ballymaloe House, the Jameson distillery, Kinsale and more. 

 

The Roughty Foodie Stall, English Market, Cork rent a home

3. A City of Learning

 

The home of University College Cork (UCC) and Munster Technological University (MTU), Cork is well-known as a lively university town. Both universities deliver many prestigious programmes across a wide range of disciplines. What’s more, they actively work with local industry leaders to provide courses that align with the needs of employers. In addition to the two universities, the region boasts numerous post-secondary education providers such as the Cork College of Commerce and Coláiste Stiofáin Naofa. As such, Cork is an ideal destination for students or professionals looking to upskill or make a career change. 

 

rent a home in Cork
Photo Credit: Jennifer Egan, Instagram: @nagerefinnej

 

4. Child-Friendly

 

Friendly, safe and relaxed, Cork is an ideal spot for young families. In terms of accommodation, there are lots of child-friendly suburbs and commuter towns to choose from (e.g. Douglas, Rochestown, Ballincollig to name a few). Ireland’s primary education system is free and there are many high-quality primary schools to choose from. Public transport is free for under-5s and there is a reduced fare for children over that age. Plus, the majority of children under five will travel free on trains and buses. 

 

What’s more, the Cork Healthy Cities group are continuously working on a major project to improve the child-friendliness of the city centre. This project aims to encourage children into the city centre and make them feel part of city life by creating more access to play opportunities and by developing more car-free areas outside schools.

 

5. The Unbeatable Beauty of West Cork

“On the weekend, myself and my boyfriend like to pack a picnic and take the car down to West Cork. Whether it’s to paddle on the beach at Garrettstown or hike around the lake at Gougane Barra, there’s always something different to do.” – Claire 

 

Explorers will relish the opportunity to discover Cork County’s many beauty spots. Those who chose to head West can follow the Wild Atlantic Way which will bring you from the rugged cliffs of the Old Head of Kinsale right through to the spectacular Dursey Island. There are also many sights to take in if you fancy a trip East, including the historic town of Cobh, the colourful village of Midleton and the lovely seaside resort of Youghal.  

 

Cohb, Ireland
Photo by Jason Murphy on Unsplash

 

 

6. Employment Opportunities

 

Cork City and County is a great region for professionals who are looking to make their next career move. It was ranked fifth for economic potential in the FDI’s 2020/21 Tech Cities of the Future report. On a more visual level, this growth is represented by the ongoing development of the city’s skyline as state-of-the-art facilities continue to be built along the docklands area.

 

Ever since Pfizer established its Ringaskiddy base in 1969, Cork has developed a strong reputation as a leading hub for the life sciences. As such, it has attracted a considerable number of large multinationals across the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, and medical device sectors. Currently, more than 13,000 people are directly employed by these companies. 

 

In recent years, Cork has also developed a strong tech cluster. The region is home to a diverse tech ecosystem made up of domestic start-ups, innovative SMEs and global brands. Key employers include Apple, Dell EMC, McAfee, Amazon and Johnson Controls. 

 

7. Easy Come, Easy Go

 

As Ireland’s second city, Cork boasts a robust travel infrastructure. The city is well-connected to other major Irish towns and there are also plenty of options for international travel. What’s more, the excellent quality of transport infrastructure means that commute times are short. According to the CSO, the average commute time is 22.1 minutes in Cork City and 26.6 minutes in Cork County. 

 

  • Roads: Cork enjoys an excellent road network throughout the county. This includes the motorway to Dublin and many dual carriageways.

 

  • Bus: Cork city has an extensive bus network that is constantly being improved and optimised. There are regular trips to inner-city areas as well as nearby suburbs and commuter towns. 

 

  • Train: The Cork Kent Train Station offers several intercity routes (e.g. Dublin, Killarney) and several commuter lines (e.g. Cobh, Little Island, Mallow).

 

  • Airport: Located just ten minutes outside the city, Cork Airport offers many routes to popular destinations across Europe and beyond. 

 

  • Ferry: Brittany Ferries offers a route that goes from the port of Ringaskiddy to Roscoff in France.

 

Photo Credit: Jennifer Egan, Instagram: @nagerefinnej

 

8. Hospitality

 

In 2018, Cork was voted the third friendliest city in the world by Condé Nast Traveler. Corkonians are known as good-humoured, easy-going people (although perhaps a tad vain). If you’re new to the area and are willing to put yourself out there, then you will make friends in no time. Our top tip – never say no to a cup of tea and always choose Barry’s over Lyons! 

 

 

9. A City of Culture

“For a city of this size, Cork punches well above its weight in terms of live music. You can find a gig any night of the week and there’s always some big festival or concert coming up. Once lockdown finally ends, I can’t wait for the Jazz Fest to come back with a bang!” – Donal

 

In 2019, the European Commission’s Cultural and Creative Cities Monitor ranked Cork second out of 79 cities for its “cultural participation and attractiveness” for people living, working and visiting in the city. With a diverse array of cultural offerings, Cork has something for everyone. 

 

Theatre lovers can catch the classics or see the latest material from fresh Irish voices at the Everyman Theatre and the Cork Opera House. Music fans will delight in the city’s many venues and festivals. Speaking of which, you can’t miss Cork’s annual Jazz festival which is easily the best weekend of the year. Art buffs can take in the sights at the Crawford Art Gallery and the Glucksman. Cork also hosts several film festivals throughout the year including the Cork International Film Festival (now in its 65th year) and the French Film Festival. 

10. Lower Cost of Living

According to data from Daft’s 2020 Q4  Report, average home rental prices in Cork come in at €1,452 for the city and €1,106 for the county. This is considerably cheaper than Dublin, where average monthly rent clocks in at €1,990 for the city and €1,912 for the county. In addition to saving on rental costs, Corkonians also enjoy a 23% lower cost of living than those in Dublin. 

 

 

Why Choose Cork?

 

Cork is a fantastic place to live. Whether you’re looking for an idyllic home, vibrant nightlife or diverse job opportunities, Cork has it all. You can live in a city and get some peace and quiet outside of your busy work schedule within 5 km from home or walk on a beautiful beach within 25 km. Alternatively, live in the peaceful serenity of Cork countryside but pop into town for a shopping spree or a session at a moment’s notice.  

Cork city at night
Photo by 2sometravel on Unsplash

Find Your Perfect Home in Cork with HomeHak

Finding and securing a house or apartment for rent in Cork is tough. Numerous people are applying for every property that is advertised for rent. HomeHak can help people to get selected for their ideal home with ease.

 

We take a very different approach – we prioritise what people need over promoting properties. You input your details and HomeHak will create your beautiful customised tenant CV today, for free. Whenever you see a house to rent in Cork that you like, you submit a link to your HomeHak tenant CV. Then Cork landlords and agents know who they are dealing with before accepting any offers from other potential tenants.  They also know what you are looking for and HomeHak makes it easy to contact you when the right property becomes available.

 

Your application will stand out from the crowd and before long you’ll find yourself living in the best property possible at a price you can afford in beautiful Cork!

For more details on why you should rent a home in Cork, check out our other articles:

10 Reasons to Live in the South of Cork City

Living on the NorthSide of Cork City – HomeHaks Guide to Making the Most!

 

Posted on

Living in the West of Cork City – HomeHak’s Top Recommendations

Kinsale, Co. Cork

Living in the West of Cork City – HomeHak’s Top Recommendations

 

Considering moving to Cork? Moving just west of Cork allows you to enjoy many of the perks associated with city living. Read our guide below to learn more about what it’s like living in the Ballincollig-Ovens area. 

 

10 Reasons to Live on the West Side of Cork City

 

  1. Excellent Employment Prospects
  2. Stunning Nature Spots
  3. Ease of Travel
  4. Excellent Sports & Fitness Amenities
  5. Delicious Food
  6. World-Class Third-Level Education
  7. Retail Therapy
  8. Pamper Yourself
  9. Gateway to West Cork
  10. Cheaper to Rent than in the City Centre

 

1. Excellent Employment Prospects 

Many of those living in Cork’s western region work at the Dell EMC facility in Ovens. This office is Dell’s largest manufacturing site outside of the US. In 2016, Dell acquired EMC leading to significant growth. Today over 5,000 people work in Dell EMC across its three sites in Cork, Limerick and Dublin. This site is multi-functional and employs people across a wide range of areas including technology, customer support, sales and more. 

 

Additionally, another major employer in the city’s Western region is VMWare – a US-born cloud computing and virtualization technology company. The company has a campus in Ballincollig which employs 1,000 people across various functions. 

 

Also, the multinational medical device manufacturer, Boston Scientific, is one of the largest employers in Cork with almost 900 staff members. Their facility on the Model Farm Road was established in 1998 and is currently undergoing an expansion.

 

 

2. Stunning Nature Spots

Those living in the west of Cork City have a number of serene nature spots on their doorstep that offer the perfect break from busy city living.  

 

Farran Forest Park is a 25-minute drive away from the City Centre. Located on the southern shore of Inniscarra Lake, walkers can enjoy the scenic lakeshore walking trails. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to observe the park’s herd of red and fallow deer. While adrenaline junkies will relish the chance to try the Zipit adventure park which offers an activity-packed aerial trail and over 800 metres of Ziplines. 

 

Another key point, located just outside Ballincollig village, Ballincollig Regional Park boasts many fantastic amenities including playgrounds, a skate park, picnic areas, and several sports pitches. Dog-owners, joggers and walkers have multiple trails to choose from that allow them to take in the unique flora and fauna of the wet woodlands. 

 

Ballincollig Regional Park, Cork
The Woods at Ballincollig Regional Park in Cork

 

Those with an interest in water sports need only drive 20 minutes from the city centre to reach Inniscarra Lake. Today, this picturesque lake has become a popular spot for angling, sailing and kayaking. Furthermore, Inniscarra is home to the National Rowing Centre (NRC) where many Irish Olympians have trained including the O’Donovan brothers. 

 

National Rowing Centre - Inniscarra

 

3. Ease of Travel

One of the major benefits of living within the Cork metropolitan area is that everything is within easy reach. Hence, the N40 (known locally as the South Link Road or the Ring Road) means that commuters can quickly travel from Ballincollig to the City Centre. Moreover, there is even the possibility of commuting out as far as Mahon – the location of Cork’s largest shopping centre.

 

In particular, non-drivers can benefit from Ireland’s first-ever 24-hour bus route, the 220. The route links Ovens, Ballincollig, Cork City, Douglas, Carrigaline and Crosshaven. This is an extremely useful option for shift workers or party-goers enjoying the city’s nightlife, significantly. 

 

4. Excellent Sports & Fitness Amenities 

People looking forward to living in the west of Cork city with an interest in sports and fitness will have a wealth of activities to choose from. No matter where you are in Ireland you’re never too far from a GAA club.

 

Providing sporting opportunities for Juveniles, Men and Women.  Notable GAA clubs to the west of Cork City include Ballincollig GAA, Eire Og GAA, Bishopstown GAA.

 

Firstly, for rugby enthusiasts, there’s Ballincollig RFC and Highfield RFC who cater for all ages. Secondly, the best football teams in the League of Ireland Premier League visit to play Cork City FC at their 7,365 seater stadium in Turners Cross.

 

Thirdly, LeisureWorld is one of the best leisure centres in the county. It has facilities for all ages including multiple swimming pools, a gym, fitness classes, a teen gym, and astroturf pitches.

 

Fourthly, Dennehy’s Health & Fitness is a popular spot in Ballincollig. It offers personal training, group classes, high-performance equipment and personal training. 

 

Finally, located on the Western edge of Cork City, the Mardyke Arena forms part of UCC’s campus. Facilities include a gym, an athletics track, a climbing wall, a pool, sauna and steam room, squash courts, and an aerobics studio. 

 

mardyke arena website

 

5. Enjoy a Taste of Cork

Cork is a foodie hotspot, and the west of the city is no exception. Founded in 2019, Good For The Soul Cafe is a relatively recent addition to Ballincollig village. Of course, most popular for coffee, an amazing brunch menu, delicious vegan options, and supper clubs.

 

good for the soul cafe, ballincollig

 

What’s more, for something a little more filling, you have to visit Jackie Lennox’s on the Bandon Road in Cork which has enjoyed legendary status as the best chipper in the county (if not the country) since 1951. 

 

For a taste of Mediterranean luxury at an economic price, Gallo & Galletti in Wilton is the place to go accordingly. It is under the direction of multi-award winning chef Brendan Cashman. This delightful spot serves up top-notch Italian fare using only the best local ingredients. Depending on your mood, you can avail of their dine-in or takeaway options, conveniently. 

 

gallo & galetti, wilton

6. Education 

Enjoy close proximity to two of Ireland’s top-rated third-level institutions. University College Cork (UCC) and Munster Technological University (MTU). This is ideal for families with college-aged children or if you are interested in making a return to education, equally important.

 

University College Cork

Founded in 1845, UCC is one of the most lauded universities in the country. Indeed, it is the only university to have been awarded “Irish university of the year” five times by the Sunday Times. UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, CPD and adult continuing education programmes.

 

These are across a diverse array of areas including the humanities, business, law, medicine, science, engineering, and architecture just to name a few. UCC has produced many well-known alumni. To name a few; the actress Fiona Shaw (you may better know her as Aunt Petunia in the Harry Potter movies or as the wily Carolyn in Killing Eve), current Taoiseach Michael Martin, and Samantha Barry – the sitting editor of Glamour magazine. 

 

university college cork - the quad

 

Munster Technological University

MTU was founded in January 2021 through the merger of the Cork and Tralee Institutes of Technology. MTU has six campuses throughout Munster. The main campus is located in Bishopstown. MTU, with 12,000 registered students in Cork, has distinguished itself as a provider of high-quality programmes, significantly. Olympian rowing champion Gary O’Donovan is among its notable alumni. 

 

 

7. Retail Therapy 

Cork’s western area offers plenty of options if you are looking to indulge in some retail therapy without having to venture into the city centre. 

 

The CastleWest Shopping Centre in Ballincollig features a diverse array of stores and eateries. These include clothes shops, book shops, homeware stores plus much more. 

 

With over 67 stores, you can find everything you need and more in the Wilton Shopping Centre. Stylistas can discover the latest trends at New Look, Born Clothing and Penneys, subsequently. After a day of shopping ‘til you drop, you can recharge with a freshly-made smoothie from Jump Juice Bar. Also treat yourself to an artisanal chocolate treat from Leonidas. 

 

wilton shopping centre

8. Pamper Yourself

For a day of pampering, you can’t beat Mark Vincent Hair & Beauty in Ballincollig. The largest salon in the area. Mark Vincent’s provides a full range of treatments including hair care, nail care, hair removal and cutting-edge facial techniques.  

 

Nothing says self-care like a spa day. If you ask us you can’t do much better than the spa at the Kingsley Hotel in Victoria Cross, unquestionably. Their elegant impressive thermal suite offers everything you could possibly need to unwind. Firstly it includes an aromatherapy steam room. Secondly a Finnish sauna and spa pool. Thirdly a whirlpool tub and much more. In the same fashion, there is a wide range of treatments available for individuals and couples alike. These include massages, facials, body scrubs, pedicures and more. To cap off your day of relaxation, why not book an elegant Afternoon Tea with a cheeky glass of bubbly! 

 

9. Gateway to West Cork 

Most important, one of the best things about living in the west of Cork is that you are on the doorstep of one of the most beautiful regions in Ireland (if not the world!). If you have a free weekend, we recommend taking off for a road trip around West Cork. Follow the coast roads and you can’t go wrong. As a resident, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to discover one of the region’s many gems. Whether it’s the colourful gastro-town of Kinsale. The ancient stone circle at Drombeg. The opulent Italian Gardens at Garinish Island. Finally, the serene shores of Lough Hyne.

 

exploring county cork

 

 

10. Cheaper to Rent than in the City Centre 

One of the major benefits of living in the Cork city outskirts is rental prices. For example, Daft’s 2021 Q1 rental report reveals that the average monthly rent for a double bedroom was €502 in the city centre. Must be remembered, this is in comparison to €442 in the suburbs. With the region’s wealth of amenities, you’ll have everything you need in easy reach. Plus the well-developed transport network. This means that you will be able to travel to the city centre quickly and easily if need be. 

 

Are you looking for a house in Cork? Create your HomeHak Tenant CV today and stand out from the crowd!