A 17th century elaborate star-shaped fortification, Charles Fort protected from foreign invasion the town of Kinsale, which was an important trading centre. It was used until 1921 when the Irish Free State came into existence. It has been extensively repaired, and you can see bastions, brick sentry boxes, circular gun platforms, and remains of several buildings. Admission IR£1.50, concessions for students, children, senior citizens. Small coffee shops serves snacks.