As a busy, working parent, the only thing tougher than juggling kids from holidays to camp to playdates in summer, is juggling them from school to sports to playdates in autumn! Luckily, midterm is fast approaching, so what better time to start planning a little family getaway? 

With that in mind, the Rebel County is a great place to start! What’s more, you can really extend your break by booking into one of the many hubs dotted around Cork, if you need to send a few mails or join a call. So, pack your laptop - and your sense of adventure - for a Hallowe’en break that’ll reset the clock before we (yes, we’re going to say it) move into winter! 

English Market [ICP] 

1. Market Research 

Cork’s English Market has a global reputation for a reason - its aromatic, bustling Victorian interior and selection of vendors will keep parents and kids enthralled for hours. But it’s not the only show in town. The Marina Market is a casual dining mecca with excellent pizzas, and the Mother Jones Flea Market is a maze of jewellery, crafts, vintage and other rummage-worthy stalls by local sellers. 

Nearby hubs: Plus10 Coworking, Republic of Work  

Image via Toy Soldier Factory  

2. Toy Soldier Factory 

Kids will adore this charming family-run Toy Solder Factory and visitor centre, located just outside the town of Macroom. Every half hour, staff give live casting demonstrations, showing how metal toy soldiers are made. There are also painting workshops where little ones can get creative, colouring their own soldiers, fairies or – given the time of year – spooky Hallowe’en ornaments! 

Nearby hub: Workbase Macroom, e-Macroom 

 Blackrock Castle Observatory [ICP] 

3. Go Stargazing 

Just because they’re away from the schoolroom doesn’t mean the learning has to stop: the CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory, on the shores of the Lee just two kilometres from Cork city centre, features a world-class space exhibition and guided tours guaranteed to open the family’s eyes to the big beyond.  

Nearby Hubs: Regus City Gate 

 Youghal Beach [ICP] 

4. Explore Youghal  

Simply being in this charming seaside town is its own activity: walk the eco boardwalk along its white sand beaches year-round; stop by the fascinating clock tower for a fam selfie; pop into any of the legendary local pubs for a cosy pint and kid-placating bowl of chips, all with plentiful sea air and gorgeous Georgian architecture.  

Nearby Hub: Enterprise Youghal 

Kinsale Harbour [ICP] 

5. Take to the Water 

Kinsale’s picture postcard streets, mix of traditional and surf / hippie atmosphere and huge choice of fresh seafood options make it a popular destination, but it’s Kinsale Harbour Cruises which might seal the deal as the best family activity. Taking in the harbour (of course) and river Bandon, it features audio commentary that brings the town’s history to life, along with essential drinks and snacks. Ahoy! 

Nearest Hub: The Courthouse Hub 

That’s it for our spotlight on Cork! Next month, we’ll focus on another fabulous Irish destination. Remember, no matter where your staycation takes you, there’s a hub ready to facilitate your working needs. Check out our interactive map and booking system here.