Cathedral Church of St Colman, Cloyne ~ George Berkeley and John Brinkley

Find us on the Worth a Visit – Tourist Map

A hidden treasure in East Cork. Foundation goes back to St Colman 600 AD.

The present cathedral dates back to 1250.

George Berkeley, one of the world’s great philosophers was Bishop of Cloyne 1734-1752.

John Brinkley, President of Royal Astronomical Society 1831-1833 was also Bishop of Cloyne (the last before the see was amalgamated with Cork & Ross).

Although not open, there is a magnificent and ancient round tower standing across the road. In visiting the cathedral one is immediately aware of the sense of history stretching back to Colman, and the atmosphere of prayer that has pervaded the site for hundreds of years.

Worth seeing:

  • The Berkeley Memorial in North Transept
  • Stained glass window by Patrick Pye
  • Cloyne Tower (not open to the public)
  • Copy of the Cross of Cloyne (original in National Museum)

Access to the inside is by arrangement:  call (021) 463 1449

On street parking.

No admission charge.

Disabled access via the main west door.

No souvenir or gift shop.

Toilet facilities coming soon.

Other Places to Visit