Built in 1722, the Shandon Bells is one of Cork’s famous visual landmarks. It has been a place of worship for over 280 years and the much-loved landmark forms a striking attraction, with its red sandstone and white ashlar limestone walls which are thought to have given Cork’s sporting history.
Originally St. Anne’s Church Shandon was on the site, but it was destroyed in the Siege of Cork in 1690. It is believed that the place has been a place of worship since the Middle Ages.
As you climb the steps of the tower, you pass the clocks at the 2nd floor. Once you reach the third floor, you will climb through the belfry, where 6 tonnes of bells ring out.
Due to the one-way nature of the path, you may need to bend beneath a big bell to clear it for other visitors. A wooden staircase leads you to the top, which is the most difficult part of the climb as the tower narrows to less than half a metre. Once you’ve made your way through the stairs, you reach the balcony at 36.6 metres. The journey will be worth it, at the latest when you can experience the breath-taking 360 degree view of Cork’s third tallest building.
The St. Anne’s Church can be reached within a 14 minute walk from the Imperial Hotel.
The Shandon Bells are easy to find, just look for the ‘Goldie fish’ in the sky, which is on top of the 37 metres high tower.
The St. Annes Church and the Shandon Bells opening times depend on the season.
March – May
Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm
Sunday: 11 am – 4 pm
June – September
Monday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm
Sunday: 11am – 4.30pm
October
Monday to Saturday: 10am – 4 pm
Sunday: 11.30am – 4pm
November – February
Monday to Saturday: 11am – 3pm
Sunday: 11.30am – 3pm
However, do not trust the times of the Shandon Bells. The clock-tower is affectionately known locally as “The Four Faced Liar”, due to the inconsistency in time that can be observed on each clock.
An admission fee is charged to maintain the building and keep it available to visitors.
Adults: €5
Senior/ Students: €4
Children: €2
Family: €12
For further information about the St. Annes Church and the Shandon Bells click here.
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