You might not recognise the face, but if you’re from Cork, chances are you’ve heard the voice. Lana O’Connor has been a constant presence on the airwaves since RedFM first launched in 2002, working as senior news editor. Outside the studio, the mum of two grown-up sons in their twenties, Dave and Stuart, loves nothing more than a stroll on Dock Beach, a catch-up over coffee in Kinsale, or winding down in her garden at the end of the week. Here, she shares her perfect Cork weekend, full of family, favourite spots, local tips and a few hidden gems.
Friday:
After a busy week in a fast-paced newsroom Friday evenings are all about unwinding. There’s nothing better than switching off from the busy news cycle, relaxing in the garden at home in Belgooly and enjoying a chilled drink.
My youngest son, Stuart, affectionately known as “Master Chef,” lives up to the name. His crispy duck noodle stir-fry has become a Friday night staple in our house. After dinner, I love spending time in the garden – there’s something truly restorative about it and this time of year, I get to enjoy some lovely sunsets.
If I have Friday night plans, they usually include food and drinks with friends in Kinsale. I am lucky to live close by to this culinary gem so I can enjoy all it has to offer on a regular basis. I love a drink in The Bulman, or, more accurately, on the wall outside The Bulman, watching the boats and swimmers. On a sunny evening, it could be the south of France. It’s just so beautiful. I love the nautical theme of the restaurant upstairs and the food there is delicious. I’d highly recommend it!
We’re so lucky to have Kinsale on our doorstep. Actons Hotel is another favourite of ours. It’s a great place to meet a friend for a coffee and a scone with cream and jam, or a family lunch or dinner. My eldest son, Dave, swears by their steak sandwich, and we all love the relaxed, welcoming vibe of the hotel.
Saturday:
Saturdays start slowly with a quiet cup of tea in my garden before a walk on Dock Beach, my happy place. I am really spoiled to have a beach less than ten minutes away and I take full advantage of it. I love my weekend walks to places like James Fort, with the most amazing views of Kinsale harbour. Just sitting there watching the waves crashing along the shore line and listening to the sound of the ocean is good for the soul.
I love a stroll around Kinsale after my beach walk. Mylie Murphy’s is a great shop, where you can get anything from fishing tackle to bikes to exotic plants, and a chat with the lovely Elsie always lifts my spirits. Most weeks I pop into Brenda and the girls in Daisy Chain for a bunch of eucalyptus – I just love that smell around the house. Stone Mad in Kinsale is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside, Jill Brennan’s shop is well worth a visit to Kinsale, it’s jam packed with the most beautiful accessories for your home and your wardrobe. It’s no wonder that it was voted one of the “Top Best 50 Shops” in Ireland, by readers of the Irish Times.
If I am having brunch in Kinsale, it’s hard to resist the Lemon Leaf café, where the food is consistently good, and if you are lucky enough to get a window seat, it’s fun to watch the world go by.
An evening on the couch might beckon after all that walking and food, and at the moment, I am hooked on The Gold on BBC One – it’s based on the true story of the 1983 Brink’s-Mat robbery where 26 million pounds worth of gold bullion was stolen. The series is a gripping mix of heist, high life and detective work. I love a good true crime drama and this one ticks every box.
Sunday:
Family is very important to me. My Dad died three years ago this August and it’s only my brother and I living in Cork, so we make a big effort to see each other and stay connected. Luckily for me, Eric lives in Youghal and I love a trip to East Cork for a walk on the Front Strand with his three dogs. It’s the perfect way to clear your head, catch up on life and enjoy the sea air. We usually grab a nice coffee from Boardwalk Café on the boardwalk, where we sit for a while setting the world to rights.
Carewswood Garden Centre Café is a bit of a favourite of ours when we are in the mood for food. It’s a win-win, I get to browse the plants and then we head for a bite to eat. Their chicken pesto ciabatta never disappoints.
Eric happens to be something of a cocktail expert, so we often round off the evening with one of his creations. My current favourite is a Matinee!
I love visiting the Marina Market at weekends. The food choice is incredible and I try (sometimes unsuccessfully) not to be lured in by the lovely crafts and paintings. It’s such a vibrant space and has become a fantastic addition to the city.
If I’m in the area, I usually take a walk along the Lee Fields. I always find that uplifting, you can’t help but feel energised mingling with other walkers, joggers and cyclists, and watching rowers on the water. It’s the perfect way to close out the weekend.
Cork QuickFire – The Local Lowdown With Lana O’ Connor
Beamish or Murphys? I have to say Beamish as it was my late father’s favourite tipple in the Tinny Shed in Douglas
Cork’s Best Chipper? Dino’s in Kinsale – can’t beat a bag of salty chips sitting on the wall opposite Dino’s after a day at the beach
Have you:
Rung the Shandon Bells? Yes
Kissed the Blarney Stone? Yes – twice just to be sure!
Eaten tripe and drisheen? Yes – both years ago though I was only told what they were after I had eaten them
Who would you nominate for the best Corkonian of all time? Caitriona Twomey is such an inspiring Cork woman, I am in awe of her kindness and the great work she does
Sum up Cork in three words? Proud, rebellious and beautiful
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