Tramore Valley Park, Cork: From Landfill to Urban Park

When nature reclaims its rightful place, the troubled history of Tramore Valley Park spans centuries of contradictions, rebirths, and reconquests—reminding us that sometimes human beings return to more conscious choices.

Article and photos by Federica Acclavio

Today, the park is the largest urban green space in Cork. Yet the landscape visitors see today was once something very different. Where approximately 2.8 million tonnes of waste accumulated in a saturated landfill, a 150-acre park now stretches across the valley.

This transformation was made possible by a €50 million remediation and redevelopment project, launched in the early 2000s and funded by government, local, and European sources.

In an interview for this article, former mayor and independent councillor Kieran McCarthy reflects on how the site evolved from landfill to public park.

The History of Tramore Valley Park

Walking along the green paths of Tramore Valley Park, it is difficult to imagine its previous life. Yet the park is the result of several historical layers.

Originally, the area was a marshland. The name of the nearby district, Ballyphehane—from the Gaelic Baile an Feitheáin, meaning “town of marshy grass”—reflects this landscape.

From 1963 to 2009, the valley became the main landfill site for Cork, gradually filling with millions of tonnes of waste. Over time, the landfill reached capacity and was eventually closed.

What visitors walk on today is therefore not just a park, but the surface of a former waste site, carefully sealed and reshaped during the remediation process.

From Landfill to Public Park

Redevelopment began in the early 2000s. The project required extensive environmental remediation to stabilise the landfill and make the area accessible to the public.

According to Kieran McCarthy, the project also highlights an unresolved challenge in Ireland’s waste management system.

During the interview, he explains:

«There has been a growing shift from landfill to waste export. In reality, most of Ireland’s waste is probably exported to the Netherlands for incineration because it is cheaper than building incinerators here.»

In other words, although the landfill was closed, the wider issue of waste management has not disappeared. It has simply moved elsewhere.

The park still sits above the former landfill. Beneath the grassy slopes lies decomposing waste, effectively a buried mountain of rubbish. For this reason, deep-rooted trees cannot be planted in much of the park.

Biodiversity at Tramore Valley Park

Since opening to the public in 2019, Tramore Valley Park has gradually developed into an important space for urban biodiversity.

The park now hosts a variety of wildlife that changes with the seasons:

• several bird species, including some considered at risk
• insects and invertebrates that support the local ecosystem
• a growing diversity of plant life adapted to the terrain

Together, these species contribute to a landscape that continues to evolve each year.

Although the terrain still feels rugged in places, this roughness reflects a natural process: nature reclaiming a transformed landscape.

Things to Do at Tramore Valley Park

For visitors exploring Cork, Tramore Valley Park offers a quiet escape from the city.

A 2.5 km circular walking trail runs through the park and is suitable for all levels. The route offers open views across the valley and space for walking, running, or cycling.

Along the path, you will meet residents enjoying everyday activities: jogging, walking their dogs, or spending time outdoors with family.

The park also includes several recreational facilities: outdoor fitness equipment, volleyball courts, a BMX track, a rugby field, and large open green areas for sports and leisure.

Despite its industrial past, the park has become a daily shared public space for the local community.

A Coffee Stop in the Park

At the end of the walk, visitors can stop at a small mobile café located in the park.

The coffee van serves coffee roasted by Mahers Pure Coffee, a local company based in Cork. It is a simple but welcome stop after completing the loop trail.

Is Tramore Valley Park Worth Visiting?

If you are interested in urban regeneration, sustainability, or nature walks, Tramore Valley Park is worth including in your itinerary.

The park may not have the manicured appearance of older European parks, but its story makes it unique. It is a rare example of a landfill transformed into a public green space.

Spending a couple of hours here offers a different perspective on Cork. It connects environmental history, community life, and evolving landscapes.

How to Get to Tramore Valley Park

The park is about 3 km from Cork city centre and can be reached by public transport.

Bus lines serving the area include:

• 203
• 206
• 207
• 216
• 220

The journey from the city centre takes around 20 minutes.

Bus tickets cost approximately €1.90, or €1.35 with a Leap Card.

Visitor Information

Location: South Douglas Road, Cork
Opening hours: 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. daily
Trail length: 2.5 km circular route
Difficulty: Easy
Entry: Free

Comfortable shoes and a water bottle are recommended.

For navigation, the free hiking app AllTrails also shows the circular route through the park.

Marina Market: the Largest Food Market in Cork

In an industrial port area where tourists rarely go, stands the Marina Market, Cork’s largest food market in the city. It covers 6,944 square metres and has large outdoor spaces for relaxing.

Article and photos by Federica Acclavio

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If you’re looking for things to do in Cork, visiting the Marina Market is one of the most authentic experiences in the city’s food scene.

At first glance, I thought I was looking at an American-style country warehouse, but the strong southern Irish accent quickly reminded me I was in Cork. The building is an old converted warehouse, with its interior a mix of rustic and industrial styles, fairy lights and colourful flags hanging from the ceiling. It has a warm, simple atmosphere that conveys conviviality and invites you in.

With no architectural barriers, the Marina Market is open to everyone, including four-legged friends. You can meet friends and family or enjoy time on your own. Vendors, artisans and staff share a simple goal: to bring people together through food, creativity and community spirit.

The History of Marina Market Cork: From Ford Factory to Food Market

To learn about the history behind the Marina Market Cork, I interviewed Floyd Cooper, the facility’s manager.

Floyd explains that the idea came from Tom Coughlan, a Cork entrepreneur who decided in 2020 to invest in a port area that had been abandoned for years.

The area includes an old warehouse that was once used as a factory for the assembly line of cars and tractors by American entrepreneur Henry Ford, one of the founders of the Ford Motor Company.

Ford was the son of an Irishman from Ballinascathy, West Cork, and to honour his origins, he chose Cork as the location for the first Ford factory outside North America in 1917.

 «For a long time, this area remained abandoned and unused. The whole area was rather neglected, and it is only in recent years, with its increase in popularity, that it has begun to take off.»

Floyd Cooper, Manager of Marina Market

Tom Coughlan’ challenge succeeded not only for himself but also for the local community and the small businesses now operating in the market. The Marina Market promotes local Irish products and short-supply-chain ingredients, an increasingly important part of Cork’s food scene. Cork has even been dubbed the gastronomic capital of Ireland.

The environment, furnished with recycled pieces, has rustic charm thanks to repurposed elements, such as tables made from old reels donated by an electrical company. This is a creative example of giving new life to objects that would otherwise be discarded.

On 26 September 2025, Cork’s Marina Market celebrated its fifth birthday. I wish it many more.

Why Visit Marina Market Cork

There is a strong sense of community in Ireland, and the Marina Market is a perfect example of this.

It is a place for all ages, where families and friends meet on weekends to chat among more than 35 food and drink vendors. Everyone is ready to satisfy every taste and dietary need, from meat-eaters to vegans, from coeliacs to lactose-intolerant people, and even a bar specialising in alcohol-free cocktails.

Numerous weekend events make the days even livelier, from Cork’s first comic book convention to Roller Disco, graffiti challenges, and DogFest.

There are also stalls run by local artisans who enrich the atmosphere with handmade crafts, as well as a small grocery shop selling only Irish organic products.

If you are planning a trip and wondering what to see in Cork, the Marina Market is a must for experiencing the city like a true local.

Sustainability and future goals

One thing I often notice in the city’s cafés, as well as in the hands of people walking through Cork’s streets, is disposable takeaway cups.

Unfortunately, vendors at the Marina Market still use a lot of single-use packaging. During the interview, Floyd Cooper acknowledged this issue and explained that the organisation is already working on it.

«As far as the packaging we use here is concerned, one of the projects I would like to pursue in the coming year is to eliminate disposable packaging. The goal is to create a centralised washing system and introduce reusable tableware – such as ceramic or enamel bowls, plates, cups and cutlery – to be made available to all vendors. It’s a project we’ll have to work on over the next few years: first, we’ll need to create the appropriate infrastructure, but it’s definitely a direction we want to take.»

Floyd Cooper during our interview

The goal for 2026 is to drastically reduce waste and make Marina Market Cork a more sustainable example among Irish food markets.

«Once again, the saying is confirmed: one man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure.»

Floyd Cooper

How to Get to Marina Market Cork

From Cork city centre, the Marina Market is about a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take: Bus 202 or 202A from Merchant Quay.

Victoria Road stop. Then, about a 5-minute walk.

Bus tickets can be purchased directly on board.

€1.90 per person per journey, payment in coins or small notes

€1.35 with Leap Card

Opening hours:

Every day from 8:00 to 20:00

Admission: free

Dogs allowed

The pleasure of slow travel

Despite limited public transport, you can explore Cork and its suburbs without driving by practicing low-impact tourism and respecting local culture.

Words and Pictures by Federica Acclavio

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With its narrow streets, where getting lost on foot is a pleasure, getting around Cork by public transport is less appealing. Buses are often late, and waiting times at stops are even longer during peak hours when traffic is congested. It should also be noted that on Saturday and Sunday, the runs are reduced, or, for some unknown reason, buses do not pass, or even worse, do not stop to pick you up if the capacity has reached the maximum.

Stress is not only for travellers but also for citizens.

However, visiting the surroundings of Cork by public transport is possible and enjoyable, but it requires a good deal of patience, flexibility, and advance organization.

Terrible traffic: buses are always late

If we take into consideration the data of the survey conducted by the National Transport Authority (NTA) in 2023 where in a period of 12 hours of a weekday – from 7:00 to 19:00 – it appears that out of 209,123 people, 20% of these, used sustainable modes of transport (on foot, by bicycle, bus and train); while 80% travelled by car.

At this point, driving becomes difficult when the roads are narrow, not enough to accommodate all the cars in both directions – there are only parking spaces on the sides – and the buses are bulky: inevitably, traffic builds, and here is the phenomenon of “traffic jam”, as the Irish call it.

Sustainable mobility

I smile as I look out the bus window. Even today, I discovered a cafe, a pub, a restaurant, or a new shop that inspires me in a corner of the city I did not know. The road to Monkstown passes through the forest, following a regular path between the oaks. The light grows dimmer, and the green of the trees becomes more intense. No, you don’t need to rent a car and focus on driving left to visit Cork; instead you can choose to explore it on foot, by bike or by bus to rediscover the pleasure of slow travel.

Renting a car requires information, attention, and a good dose of courage, especially when you are driving on the other side of the road. In addition, the total cost is much higher: between rental, insurance, tolls and fuel, the expenditure far exceeds that of a simple bus ticket.

Car-free day trips

By preparing ahead, memorable trips within a short distance from Cork are easily within reach. In twenty or forty minutes by bus, you can get from the centre of Cork to several destinations that are not part of the usual tourist routes, well known to locals but unknown to travellers.

A first destination is Tramore Valley Park, an inspiring example of restored nature—once a landfill, now a city park with rich biodiversity, a walking loop, and well-equipped spaces for outdoor exercise.

After a walk, hunger strikes, and Marina Market satisfies even the most demanding palates and alternative diets with its 35 points dedicated to food and drinks, including Saor, a new bar that offers delicious cocktails with zero alcohol.

Another day, another adventure: the exploration continues towards Marina Promenade, a walk along the banks of the River Lee that leads to Blackrock Castle with panoramic views.

For the fourth stop, experience forest bathing at Ballincollig Regional Park and delve into the woods and British military history. Alternatively, embark on a walking tour of Cork’s neighbourhoods, guided by historian Kieran McCarthy, who will lead you to discover secrets hidden in the city’s streets and in the proudly intact stones of its buildings.

To travellers seeking for authenticity, I recommend a visit to the tiny maritime village of Monkstown, a window onto the natural harbour bay and surrounded by nature. From here, you can take the ferry to picturesque Cobh and, if you wish, bring your day to a close.

In my view, transport services need to be improved to encourage both residents and tourists to use public transport. One suggestion I would like to offer is the idea of a visitor card, such as a Dublin 24-hour pass, available at a reduced price and purchasable at various outlets, including the tourist information office.

Practical advice for a week in Cork

How to get to Cork

With these little tips, planning a weeklong holiday in Cork won’t be difficult at all. First, choose the destination airport: Cork or Dublin. If you opt for the latter, there is a convenient Aircoach bus service that will take you directly to the center of Cork in three hours. It is advisable to buy the ticket (cost 22,00 euros per person) in advance from the Aircoach app; otherwise, you can buy it at the stand outside Terminal 1.

Where to stay

The Victorian Quarter is the nicest neighbourhood to stay in, but the university area, 15 minutes by 15- minute walk from downtown, is Worth noting, with hotels overlooking the River Lee and a good choice of classic Bed & Breakfasts.

Public transport

To visit the centre of Cork and its charming districts, you won’t need any transport; the city is modestly small and compact, with a medieval layout and a network of intersecting streets. Wear comfortable shoes and walk— every step will be fueled by discovery.

To reach the parks or villages, take the bus. Google Maps will help: enter your destination and the App will show you the boarding and exit stops, along with the bus number. Tickets cost €1.90 per person—cash only—for red zone travel. All locations mentioned in this article are within the red zone.

Instead, if you choose to stay in Cork for a week, I recommend buying a Leap Card at a Centra store or a petrol station. The cost of the card is €5,00 plus any top-up; in this case, the cost of the ticket drops to €1,35 (price updated to 2025). A card is required for each passenger.

Cork, the Irish city that
aims to become
even greener

Determined and proud, enterprising and in constant transition,
Cork is a city where ambitions for the future clash daily with history, infrastructure and human nature. It is not a destinationto passthrough, but a place to explore in depth.

Words and Pictures by Federica Acclavio

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Crossed by water, Cork takes its name from the Irish word corcach, meaning
‘marsh’. The River Lee, which divides into two channels — one to the north and
one to the south — before rejoining in the harbour, transforms the city centre into a veritable island.

Built at the lowest point where the river meets the sea, the city owes its long maritime tradition and identity to the second-largest natural harbour in the world.

Where the journey begins

My journey begins in Cork, the vibrant county town that proudly stands as
Ireland’s second city after Dublin. Despite the passage of centuries, Cork has
retained its determined spirit and welcoming character. It is a city of travellers, writers, artists, workers, and farmers—where hospitality is a way of life, and visitors are greeted with open arms.

Famous for its gastronomic scene — earning the nickname ‘Ireland’s culinary
capital’ — Cork offers much more to those who stay. Evolving constantly, it enhances its heritage to shape the new, choosing the path of sustainability.

The development of Cork in seven stages of history

Founded in the 7th century by Saint Finbar as a monastic centre, Cork has been
transformed over the centuries: from a Viking port to an Anglo-Norman fortified
town, to a thriving commercial centre under English influence.

Between the Georgian and Victorian eras, the city changed its appearance through the reclamation of marshland, the construction of wide roads, and the expansion of quays and warehouses, symbols of the Industrial Revolution.

Even today, Cork continues to renew itself, driven by the determination and ambition of its citizens.

An emerging city

This momentum towards the future is reflected in numerous awareness-raising
projects — some already active, others planned for 2026 — concerning urban
redevelopment, sustainable mobility and the progressive pedestrianisation of
spaces, with the aim of encouraging walking and cycling.

Initiatives such as those promoted by the non-profit organisation Leave No Trace and public events, including Cork as an Urban Garden, help raise awareness of the benefits of urban greening.

This is a real team effort involving public and private entities, citizens, and
political representatives, united by the desire to build a responsible
development model focused on environmental, social, and economic
sustainability.

This is the context in which the Community Climate Action Fund
was created: a funding programme for businesses proposing innovative, futureoriented solutions that foster sustainable practices.

“Urban greenery is not only about aesthetics. It supports health, sustainability, biodiversity, and a better quality of life for all.”

Peter Dowdall (The Irish Gardener)

Among the measures implemented to reduce traffic congestion — one of the
city’s main critical issues — are the introduction of bus lanes and the study of a light-rail line, LUAS.

This issue was also openly acknowledged by Kieran McCarthy, Independent Councillor, who stated in my interview: «We have a capacity problem within the city, where the streets are narrow, and it is difficult for all cars to circulate».

Getting lost in the city’s neighbourhoods

I explored Cork by day and night, guided by its streets. The water reflects buildings from different eras, while stones and bricks reveal history: St Anne’s Bell Tower marks the time but can sometimes misleads, St Fin Barre’s spires serve as a compass, and Elizabeth Fort surveys the city.

The Shandon district proudly preserves the tradition of butter-making — a visit to the Butter Museum is a must, with demonstrations of traditional production on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 12:00.

Meanwhile, the Victorian Quarter exudes a bohemian atmosphere, with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and a contagious liveliness.

Cork is an emerging destination with clear ideas, which, in just a few years, has
distinctly positioned itself in a competitive market. This is thanks to its community, driven by a desire to work together to protect their sense of belonging.

“Here in Cork, we are trying to create a type of tourism
that is positive for our visitors and also for our local
communities and our exceptional natural environment.”

Pure Cork, tourism promotion agency for the city and county of Cork. Text quoted from the Brand Book.

Travel tips

How to get to Cork

Cork is well-connected by an international airport and efficient road, rail, and bus links. Cork Airport, 8km south of the centre, connects directly to the city with regular buses stopping at the terminal.

The airport and Parnell Place bus station are about 20 minutes apart. Bus Éireann routes 225 and 226 provide service. Purchase tickets on board or at the terminal’s ticket machine near the bus stop.

Where to stay

Cork offers a wide variety of accommodation options. Whether you choose to stay on the central island, in the Shandon area to the north, or in the city’s most dynamic neighbourhood, the Victorian Quarter, you will always find yourself immersed in everyday urban life.

The Western Road area, which extends south-west from the centre towards the University College Cork (UCC) campus, is home to most of the bed and breakfasts, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter atmosphere without straying too far from the centre.

Getting around

Compact and inviting, Cork is perfect for walking. Short distances and simple streets make exploring easy. For longer trips, buses connect the centre
to the suburbs in 20-60 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased on board by telling the driver your destination. The fare is €1.90 per journey for adults in the urban and suburban areas (red zone), with payment by cash only. For stays of several days, the Leap Card is a convenient solution: it can be purchased in Centra shops for €5.00, and you can add the desired amount to it.