Cork's Detective Trail Returns: Families Invited to Solve Cultural Mysteries Across the City

The popular Playful Culture Trail is back for its fifth year, transforming Cork into a giant playground where children become cultural detectives hunting for clues at over 20 heritage sites.

Launched today on UNESCO's International Day of Play, the 2025 edition puts discovery at its heart, with families invited to don their detective hats and explore Cork's cultural treasures through interactive activities and stamp collecting.

The beloved mascot Bláithín the Lizard returns as a pint-sized sleuth, hidden throughout attractions from Blackrock Castle Observatory to St Fin Barre's Cathedral, challenging young explorers to sharpen their detective skills whilst uncovering fascinating facts about Cork's heritage.

Running from June through September, the trail encompasses more than 20 cultural and heritage sites including The Butter Museum, Cork City Gaol, Elizabeth Fort, Nano Nagle Place, The Glucksman Gallery, Shandon Bells and Tower, and the Old Cork Waterworks Experience, plus parks and picnic spots such as Fitzgerald Park, The Lough, and Marina Park.

This year's highlights include finding the centre of the labyrinth at St Fin Barre's Cathedral, learning about the mysterious Cork Horns at Cork Public Museum, and borrowing board games at Cork City Library.

Lord Mayor Cllr Dan Boyle praised the initiative's collaborative spirit:

"I'm delighted to see the Playful Culture Trail return to Cork city for its fifth year. Children have come to know and love Bláithín the Lizard. This year's detective theme encourages exploration, learning, and genuine fun across the city's museums, galleries, and historic sites. My sincere thanks to everyone who has collaborated to bring this trail to life."

The trail is coordinated by Let's Play Cork, a city-wide partnership using play as a strategy for place-making, inclusion, and wellbeing. Martin O'Donoghue of Let's Play Cork explained the timing:

"This trail aligns with global efforts to promote play as essential for children's development. Cork continues to lead the way nationally in reimagining our cultural spaces as places for play, learning, and joy."

Danielle O'Donovan, Director of the Cork Butter Museum, emphasised the welcoming approach:

"Children aren't just welcome - they're our VIPs. This citywide collaboration shows just how welcoming and playful Cork is. We can't wait to welcome this year's little super sleuths!"

The trail offers both locals and visitors a unique way to experience Cork, one clue, stamp, and smile at a time. Trail maps, opening times, and access details are available at playfulculturetrail.com.

The initiative forms part of Cork's ongoing commitment to becoming a 'Playful City', making cultural and heritage spaces more accessible and enjoyable for children. Cork City now leads a National Play Network in Ireland, with five other towns modelling the city's approach to developing playful initiatives.