When I first moved to Cork from Dublin, Blackrock Castle was a ruin with a stone tower jutting out into the last lengths of the River Lee surrounded by warning signs, scaffolding, fencing and a fair bit of rubbish. Today it stands restored, proud and home to an observatory (part of University College Cork) and an excellent cafe / restaurant.
From here a walkway then leads on around the estuary edge, a popular haunt for family walks and joggers of all descriptions. It is great to see how this area has been developed to make the most of its surroundings.
Here are some images of Blackrock Castle late in the evening, largely taken in the hour of blue light, just before it goes truly dark.
While the observatory is run by UCC, it has plenty going on and is not strictly the preserve of college students, as can be found at Blackrock Castle Observatory. Those who are partial to their food, coffees or something stronger may want to check out Castle Cafe.
Meticulous Mick 
I remember it as you describe it before. Must visit it next time in Cork. Great images!
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Thanks Finola, about time you paid a visit then. Be heading down there tomorrow for a spot of lunch. John 🍀
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Beautiful….a far cry from my first sight of Cork Harbour when my parents brought us home from UK in 1963 aboard the old Innisfallen, right up to the center of Cork!
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Ah, but all those memories…..🍀
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Now I want to visit even more. }:-(>
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👍😃
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These night shots are incredible – just love ’em! Have you ever thought of offering photography courses for bloggers? Your blog is your credential. 🙂
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It hasn’t occurred to me,no. 😮
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Stunning photos, MM.
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Thank you Jots, any further in the move? 🍀
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Was moving toward a final signing and then it fell apart.
Such a disappointment, MM. All very complicated at the moment…but continue to be encouraged…and continue to pack. Coming to UK at end of month to celebrate birthdays with friends. Looking forward to the London party and then a solo week on the
E. Sussex coast…to do what you are doing…weigh options. Appreciate your kind words and thoughts. RR
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Well, wishing you all the best RR, MM
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Great set Mick, love the shadow from the gate 🙂 🙂
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Thanks very much Nigel. The shadow from the gate definitely turns this from being an ordinary tower shot into something more interesting. 🍀
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Stunning photos. And what a magnificent place. Would love to explore it! CC
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It’s now a great location and I sometimes pass there on the bike with dog in tow. MM 🍀
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I like “Gateway to the Tower” very much.
Very nice images!
OT: I’ve actually found a place in the far north of Ireland called Malin (and also Malin Head).
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Been very close to there but not Malin Head itself. Going back up to County Donegal later this month (the county in which Malin Head lies). Have a great week malign, MM 🍀
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Oh, nice that you have been close there. 🙂
What do you mean with “malign”? 🙂 I guess you mean Malin 😉 Have a great week you too, John/MM.
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Yes, flaming auto correct…Malin
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😉
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Beautiful images once again, love the lighting and the atmosphere created by it.
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Thanks Compass, the timing was quite good. 👍
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