Overlooking Cork Harbour, Cobh Museum, located in the repurposed Scot's Presbyterian church showcases exhibitions which reflect the cultural, social and maritime history of Cobh and the Great Island area. Formerly known as Queenstown, the town of Cove has a rich maritime history and is known throughout the world for its long association with emigration and notably as the last port of call for the RMS Titanic
In the museum there is a small genealogical reference section where visitors can do their own family research
Cobh Museum ** Season Open March 27th 2026 **
Lusitania - A Day In May
On the 1st of May 1915, the Cunard steamship, RMS Lusitania left New York bound for Liverpool. Unknown to all, the destination of many on board would be Queenstown, Co. Cork, Ireland.
The tragedy which ensued when the RMS Lusitania was struck by a torpedo from a German submarine on May 7th off the Old Head of Kinsale, Co. Cork, left an indelible mark on the town of Queenstown [Cobh].
The search, rescue and burial operations were coordinated from the town of Queenstown in Cork Harbour which at that time was a British Naval Admiralty base.
This exhibition explores the impact of the sinking of the Lusitania on the people and town of Queenstown [Cobh].
The Scuttling of the AUD 1916
This exhibition was mounted as part of the Museum's 1916 commemorations in collaboration with Mr. Jim Shealy, local historian. It explores this event which took place in Cork Harbour in 1916. On display is a rifle and cartridges from the gun-running ship 'Aud'
Queenstown in 1915
Although the First World War was in progress and emigrant traffic had decreased significantly there were still travellers passing through Queenstown. British war ships and trawlers anchored in the harbour and there was increased employment in Haulbowline Dockyard.
The railway and the steamboats ferrying local traffic within the harbour were essential to the commercial life of the town.
This section of the exhibition gives glimpses of the Queenstown of 1915 through photographs and artefacts associated with the day to day life of the town.
Having a large natural harbour, Queenstown was the perfect location for a British Naval base. One of the biggest historical impacts on the town happened in 1915 when RMS Lusitania was torpedoed off the Old Head of Kinsale about 20 miles from Queenstown. Many of the survivors and victims were brought to Queenstown. The people of the the town rose to the huge challenge of rescue, comforting the shocked and injured survivors, and identifying, repatriating and burying the dead. The ancient, Old Church Cemetery in Cobh became the final resting place for 169 of the souls who perished in the sinking of RMS Lusitania. The Museum is keeper of objects related to this significant event.
Museum Opening Hours
Monday-Saturday:
11am - 1pm & 2pm - 5pm
Sunday:
Closed
Admission Charges:
- Adult 4.00
- Student/Senior 2.50
- Child 2.00
- Family 10.00
Please email or phone us for group rates.
