It’s that time of year again—Back to School season is here! Whether your little ones are starting their first day of primary school or your teens are prepping for a stylish return to secondary school, pedestrianised shopping district, Opera Lane, has everything you need to get set for the return to school.
TIP: Our Personal Shoppers says, “when picking up school uniform essentials allow some extra room for growth spurts, especially if you like to be organised and buy uniforms early. Most kids grow like the grass in summer so if in doubt size up – they’ll grow in it”
✅ School Uniform Essentials
Mountain Warehouse on Opera Lane offers brilliant value on durable school coats and rain jackets, —perfect for unpredictable Irish weather. They also have a great range of fun back packs, lunch boxes, flasks and for the little ones, wellies and onesies for puddle splashing and learning through nature.
For everyday school staples like trousers, shirts, and cardigans, pop into Next and H & M on Opera Lane for affordable and high-quality options that you know will wash and wear. Many of these stores also have multipacks and eco-friendly ranges, making shopping convenient and sustainable.
✨ School Style Sorted
For older kids who love to add a bit of flair to their school look, River Island in Cork city centre has stylish backpacks, jackets, and accessories to help them stand out (within dress code limits, of course!). H&M also features trendy yet practical pieces, perfect for after-school activities and weekend wear.
👟 Step Up with Skechers
Comfortable footwear is a must for active school days, and Skechers on Opera Lane has an amazing selection of school-approved black shoes, sporty runners for P.E., and memory foam insoles that’ll keep feet happy all day long. Keep an eye out for special back-to-school offers to grab a great deal!
🛍️ A Great Day Out for the Whole Family
Why not make a day of it? Cork city centre has plenty of family-friendly cafés and restaurants for a well-earned treat after ticking everything off your back-to-school list. With everything from hearty lunches to hot chocolates or iced lattes (who knows what the weather will be like) you can enjoy a fun day out while getting school-ready in one trip.
🧸 Sensory Friendly Shopping
For families who prefer a calmer shopping experience, don’t forget about Sensory Friendly Shopping Hour. Every Sunday, during the first hour of trade, participating shops in Cork city centre lower the lights and sounds to create a more relaxing environment for children and parents who need it. It’s a wonderful way to make back-to-school shopping more enjoyable for everyone.
🎁 Ready, Set, School!
From school uniforms to stylish extras, comfy footwear to weather-ready coats, Cork city centre is packed with great shops like Next, H&M, River Island, Skechers, and Mountain Warehouse. With everything in one convenient location, Back to School shopping is easier—and more fun—than ever.
See you on Opera Lane and happy school shopping! 🎒