The Metropole Hotel stands on MacCurtain Street, the main road through Cork's Victorian Quarter on the north side of the river. The hotel has been part of the city for well over a century and is one of its best-known addresses, with a street-front presence and a full-service feel. Kent railway station is at the end of the street, which makes the Metropole an easy choice for visitors arriving by train, and the river, the shops and the pubs of the centre are a short walk away. Shandon and its bells are an uphill walk from here, and the English Market is a few minutes south across the channels of the Lee.
Location and getting around
MacCurtain Street is lively, with restaurants, pubs and independent shops, and the hotel's position makes it convenient for both rail and bus arrivals. Cork city's main sights are within walking distance, including the English Market, St Fin Barre's Cathedral and the Shandon area, and city buses are easy to find. For day trips to Cobh or Fota, the trains from Kent station are the obvious choice, and you can be on a platform within minutes of leaving the lobby.
Rooms and facilities
Expect a four-star style of city hotel with a restaurant and bar, leisure facilities and a range of room sizes. Because the building is older, rooms differ in layout and quiet, so request a room away from the street if noise bothers you. Facilities, dining and parking arrangements change, so confirm the current details on the booking page before you choose, particularly if you plan to drive, since city-centre parking is limited and often charged.
What to know
The street outside is busy, especially at weekends, which is part of the appeal for people who like to be in the middle of things and a drawback for light sleepers. It suits first-time visitors, rail travellers, business guests and couples who want to walk to pubs and restaurants in the evening. If you prefer a grand historic address on the south side, the Imperial is the alternative in this guide, and if you want views and quiet, look at the hillside options.
Why stay here
- ✓MacCurtain Street location
- ✓Near Kent station
- ✓Restaurant
- ✓Bar
- ✓Leisure facilities
- ✓Walkable to the centre
- ✓Range of room sizes
- ✓Close to Shandon
Good questions
Where is The Metropole Hotel?+
It is on MacCurtain Street in the Victorian Quarter on the north side of the River Lee, close to Kent railway station.
Is it close to the main sights?+
Yes, the English Market, St Fin Barre's Cathedral and the Shandon area are all within walking distance, and the river is a short stroll away.
Is it a good choice for train travellers?+
Yes, Kent station is at the end of the street, which makes arrivals and day trips to Cobh and Fota simple.
