I'm glad to hear that you had a great time in Cork City, despite the rainy weather. It sounds like you made the most of your time there, and I'm especially intrigued by your visit to Blarney Castle. Kissing the Blarney Stone is a rite of passage for many visitors to Ireland, and it's even more amazing to think that the castle itself is over 600 years old.
I also appreciate your honest feedback on the English Market. It's always helpful to hear different perspectives on popular tourist attractions, and it's good to know that it's not everyone's cup of tea.
Thank you! We ended up being very happy with how the trip went overall. It wasn't without its mistakes but the good memories far outshined them.