Located in the centre of Cork, The Bank Casino and Card Club is popular amongst both locals and tourists alike. The establishment underwent a complete re-design back in 2009 and is now one of the best members clubs in Ireland. The Bank specialises in poker cash games, leagues, and tournaments, but other games such as roulette and blackjack are also available. In this article, we explore the club in more detail.
As with most of the casinos in Ireland, you will need to become a member to make the most out of your visit. While this is free and processed immediately, this process will need to be done before you can enjoy what the club has to offer. Currently, all of the casinos in Ireland are still governed by the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956. According to the outdated laws included under this act, technically casino gambling is still illegal in Ireland. To abide by this, most of Irelands top casinos are actually private, members-only clubs. To become a member, simply take a valid photo ID along with you – a passport or driving license will be sufficient. If you plan your trip in advance, you can sign up online with a few quick and simple steps. Completing an online application to the Bank Casino will allow you to enter the club immediately upon arrival.
Blackjack is a firm favourite in the Bank Casino. Housing a variety of different blackjack tables, choose one you feel comfortable at and test your luck! While the original game of blackjack is the most popular choice amongst the older generation, younger players often enjoy playing the dealers modern variations of the basic card game.
To win a traditional game of blackjack, players will need to beat the dealer’s hand without going over twenty-one. To begin, two cards are given to the dealer and each player. Before any cards are laid, each player must place their bet. Each player is given the option to either hit or stay, although the dealer must draw up until twelve and then stay once at seventeen.
Like all great casinos, the Bank is equipped with a selection of roulette tables. Experts in the traditional table game can get stuck in from the get-go, while beginners interested in placing a bet can chat with the croupier (dealer) about the basic rules of the game. The aim of the game is simple; you just try to guess which pocket the ball is going to land in!
To partake in a game of roulette, players must begin by passing their money to the dealer in return for chips. Depending on the player’s preference, the chips will either be colour chips or cash value chips. At the end of each game, winners can swap their colour chips for cash value chips, which can then be exchanged for money. Once players have received their chips, they can begin to place them on the roulette table. Once all bets are placed, the croupier will spin the ball on the wheel. Players must have placed all of the chips before the ball lands in a designated slot; whatever slot the ball drops into is the winning number. Once the ball has landed, the croupier will pay all winning bets. Once the payments have been completed, players can begin placing their bets for the next spin.
The most popular game by far, poker brings thousands of hopeful gamblers into the establishment. Not only does the casino run regular cash games, but they also host a variety of tournaments and leagues for locals to get involved with. While Texas Hold’em is a favourite amongst regulars, the casino also offers other variations of the popular card game, such as Omaha. Big win cash games are run every Thursday evening from 11 pm. Tournaments and league games are run throughout the week, too, but more information about their schedule can be found via the Banks social media pages. To keep in touch about their upcoming games and events, try following the casino on Facebook or Twitter.
While the Bank is equipped with a couple of basic slot machines, the main attractions are their table games. In light of this, the casino is ideal for those looking for a game of poker or blackjack, but slot gamers may be better off elsewhere.
Although there is no designated bar or a restaurant on site, a variety of snacks and soft drinks are prepared in the fully-functioning kitchen. If you’re feeling like a mid-game refreshment, simply speak to the casino staff on the games floor to find out what your options are.
As mentioned previously, you will need to become a member of the Bank before being allowed to enter the establishment. Don’t let that put you off going, though. Membership to this casino is completely free and the registration process is quick and simple – providing you are over the age of 21! A membership form can be filled out on the door or can be completed online prior to your visit if you want to save time. If you’re hoping to complete the form on the day, just remember to bring a valid photo ID and a recent utility bill.
Whether you’re hoping to take part in a fast-action game of roulette or you’re more interested in getting involved with the ongoing poker tournaments, The Bank Casino and Card Club Cork has something for players of all sorts. Due to the addictive nature of traditional gambling, it’s imperative to consider your financial situation before stepping foot in the casino. If you’ve got a few spare pounds though, this Irish Casino is well worth the visit!