The Billy the Blacksmith sculpture at the western end of Innishannon honours the O'Connell family, who ran Ireland's longest-serving family forge here for five generations. Discover the story behind one of West Cork's most beloved pieces of public art.
Welcome
A living, breathing village on the banks of the River Bandon with rich in history, wrapped in nature
Did You Know?
Whether you are a local checking in on community news, a day tripper from Cork, or a visitor from much further afield, this is your home on the web for everything Innishannon.
History & Heritage
Walk a self-guided trail through 1,200 years of history. From Viking raids to Cromwellian grants, Huguenot refugees to Winston Churchill's childhood visits — Innishannon's story is extraordinary.
Nature & Walks
Stroll the 800-metre Bleach riverside walk, lose yourself in the bluebell carpets of Dromkeen Wood, or cast a line on the River Bandon. Nature is right on the doorstep here.
Events & Community
The annual Steam & Vintage Rally draws 60,000 visitors. Local sports, Tidy Towns, parish events, and more keep Innishannon buzzing all year round.
A Village With a Story to Tell
First mentioned in writing in 837 AD, Innishannon has been welcoming travellers for well over a thousand years. Sitting at the original crossing point of the River Bandon — the historic gateway into West Cork — this beautiful village rewards every visitor with its sculpture trail, ancient woodland, riverside walks, warm pubs, and the very best of Irish community life.
Whether you are a local checking in on community news, a day tripper from Cork, or a visitor from much further afield, this is your home on the web for everything Innishannon.
Gateway to West Cork
Innishannon's Steam & Vintage Rally is one of the largest events of its kind in Ireland, attracting over 60,000 visitors each June and raising over €1 million for the Irish Cancer Society since 1998.
The Rally
Innishannon is proud to be home to beloved Irish author Alice Taylor, whose books — including To School through the Fields, The Village, and Across the River — have captured the hearts of readers the world over. Her writing is a love letter to this corner of Cork, and visiting Innishannon feels like stepping into the pages of one of her books.
Home of Alice Taylor
Innishannon sits on the N71, just 23km west of Cork City and 10 minutes from Bandon. It is served by bus routes and is a short drive from Cork Airport. Whether you are coming for an hour or a long weekend, we're easy to reach.
Getting Here
Local Insights
The Perfect Day Trip from Cork City — Why Innishannon Should Be Next on Your List
Just 23km from Cork City, Innishannon is the perfect day trip destination — with a heritage trail, ancient woodland, riverside walk, great food, and the perfect launchpad into West Cork. Here is your perfect itinerary for a day out from Cork.
The Bleach Walk — Innishannon’s Hidden Riverside Gem
The Bleach Walk is Innishannon's beloved 800-metre riverside path along the River Bandon — a community treasure named after the village's 18th-century linen bleaching industry. Free to walk, flat and accessible, and the perfect addition to a day in West Cork.
Meet the Locals: Alice Taylor — Innishannon’s Beloved Author
Innishannon is proud to be home to beloved Irish author Alice Taylor, whose books — including To School through the Fields, The Village, and Across the River — have been read by millions worldwide. Discover her connection to the village and her continued role in the community.