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It’s the home of rock legend Rory Gallagher so it’s no secret that Cork is a musical destination.

In fact, Cork has a rich history of music that dates back to the sixteenth century. Not only were countless musicians born and raised here but plenty of music is created on Leeside too.

And word is spreading; according Musical Drives, the latest eBook from Chill Car Insurance, which explores drives in Ireland that are inspired by music, Cork is a hot spot for musical tourism.

Cork: A musical tour
Although, not all of us can be blessed with musical ability, we can enjoy the culture of it and Cork is a fantastic place to start a musical tour. From the Opera House and Plugd Records (now upstairs at The Roundy on Castle Street) to late night entertainment and the locations for popular music videos, there’s something for everyone to discover.

If you’re looking for a weekend break around Cork then these musical drives may be the inspiration you need:

Our Love – Caribou
The first spot is the location of the music video for the song Our Love by Caribou. This video was filmed in West Cork on the southern tip of Ireland at Lough Ine House and follows an elderly woman as she takes a look around the house and a stroll through the gardens.

The house itself offers overnight accommodation as well as plenty of activities to take part in during your stay. From walking and cycling to water activities there’s a lot to enjoy once you have taken in the beautiful scenery.

The final resting place of Rory Gallagher

He was raised in Cork and began his incredible career on the banks of the River Lee, so it’s only fitting that Rory Gallagher should be buried here. The world-famous blues guitarist’s final resting place is in St Oliver’s Cemetery, just outside Ballincollig.

The grave’s headstone is a tribute to the International Guitarist of the Year award he received in 1972.

Take Me To Church – Hozier
According to a survey by Chill Insurance, the location of the music video for Hozier’s Take Me to Church is the third most popular music video location in Ireland.

The Inniscarra Dam is the perfect spot for a picture. It’s located west of Ballincollig just off the northern R.618 route to Coachford.

Incredibly, the video was made for just €1,500 and was later nominated for an MTV award. It’s been viewed on Youtube more than 233 million times.

Live music in Cork

As well as locations made famous by musicians there are also places where you can enjoy live music of different genres.

Here are some of the best places to enjoy live music in Cork:

Live at St. Lukes

Live at St. Luke’s is a live music and events project run by The Good Room. The events take place in the beautiful and unique St. Luke’s, a former church in Summerhill North, Cork.

Coughlan’s

A pub steeped in tradition, Coughlan’s on Douglas Street has hosted some of the country’s finest musicians including Glen Hansard, Mick Flannery, Lisa Hannigan and Delorentos, to name just a few.

The Crane Lane

You’ll find live music in the lively Crane Lane seven nights a week. Whether it’s folk, swing, blues, jazz or country, this is a spot that’s jumping until 2am every night.

Cyprus Avenue
Cyprus Avenue has been open since 2003 as a venue that hosts some very well known performers whilst providing an intimate gig setting. It is located in the heart of Cork so it’s easy to access and announces new gigs regularly.

Cork Opera House
Perhaps one of the oldest music venues in the county the building has been around since 1852. It’s a remarkable place with one of Ireland’s largest stages and a 1,000-seat auditorium with orchestra pit.

Read the Chill Insurance Musical Drives ebook here or share your own musical recommendations on Twitter using #MusicalDrives.