D Irl 8277 E: Kinsale, Milk Market

Kinsale (Cionn tSáile, meaning "head of the brine") is a historic port and fishing town which also has significant military history. Situated on the southeast coast near the Old Head of Kinsale, it is located at the mouth of the River Bandon. Historical buildings in the town include St. Multose's Church (Church of Ireland) of 1190, St. John the Baptist (Catholic) of 1839, the Market House of c. 1600, and the so-called French Prison (or Desmond Castle, associated with the Earls of Desmond) of c. 1500. Charles Fort is in nearby Summercove. Dating from 1677 it was built to protect the area and specifically the harbour from use by the French and Spanish in the event of a landing in Ireland. An underwater chain used to be strung between James Fort and Charles Fort across the harbour mouth during times of war to scuttle enemy shipping by ripping the bottoms out of incoming vessels. From 1694 Kinsale served as a supply base for Royal Navy vessels in southern Ireland. (Source: Wikipedia)

Kinsale has luckily retained its charm and appeal. Many water –based activities flourish in and around the sheltered harbour, which has direct access to the wild Atlantic. Good sailing, good food, good accommodation, good craft shops – Kinsale is a gem!