Getting to Cork Opera House by bus, train, bike or taxi

Cork Opera House stands on Emmet Place, on the north edge of the island city centre, with the River Lee behind it and the Crawford Art Gallery next door. The building went up in 1965 after a fire destroyed the old one, and its front was redone in 2000. Everything in the flat centre is within walking distance.

Bus

The theatre's own advice is simple: almost every bus that stops in the city centre leaves you within a few minutes' walk. St Patrick's Street is the main corridor, and Emmet Place is a short walk north of it. Check buseireann.ie or the TFI Journey Planner for your route, especially for the last bus home after a late show.

Train from Kent Station

Kent Station is the main Irish Rail station for Intercity and commuter trains (Dublin, Cobh, Midleton, Mallow). It is on the far side of the river, and the Opera House calls it a bus or taxi ride away. Matinees and early shows are fine by train. For evening shows, check the last train on irishrail.ie before you book dinner.

Bike and taxi

A TFI Bikes station sits beside the main entrance, to the left of the front door, with bike racks next to it by the Crawford Art Gallery.

For taxis, the theatre recommends Cork Taxi Co-op (021 427 2222). Arrange a pick-up on Emmet Place, as the square in front of the theatre is the obvious landmark.

After the curtain

The exits pour out onto Emmet Place. Drivers cross Christy Ring Bridge to Q-Park Carroll's Quay, two minutes away. For a bus, walk back to St Patrick's Street. For a cab, ring Cork Taxi Co-op before the final bow, as everyone else calls at the same moment. If you are staying around MacCurtain Street, the same bridge takes you there.

Step-free access

The lift is on the left of the main entrance and serves all levels, including the bar and the back row of the Dress Circle. Rows A to K of the Dress Circle are reached by stairs from the first-floor bar. Our seating guide explains the layout.

Coming by car? See parking near Cork Opera House. Eating first? Read where to eat near Cork Opera House.

Frequently asked questions

What is the nearest bus stop to Cork Opera House?

Any city-centre stop on St Patrick's Street works, a few minutes' walk from Emmet Place. The theatre says most city-centre buses leave you within a short walk.

How far is Cork Opera House from Kent Station?

It is on the other side of the river, and the theatre calls it a bus or taxi ride away. Check the TFI Journey Planner for the bus.

Is Cork Opera House wheelchair accessible?

Yes. A lift to the left of the main entrance serves all levels. Book wheelchair spaces through the box office.

Is there a bike station at Cork Opera House?

Yes, a TFI Bikes station beside the main entrance, with bike racks next to it.