Welcome to Ireland’s Alcatraz – Spike Island in Cork – where monks, military men, and mutineers have all left their mark.
From holy hermits to hardened criminals, this 104-acre island has played host to an unlikely cast of characters over its 1,300-year history.
During your visit, you can walk in their footsteps. Though thankfully, unlike its former residents, you’re free to leave at the end of your visit!
Want to learn more? Check out our travel guide to Spike Island!
Where is Spike Island?
Spike Island is a 103-acre island located off County Cork, on the southern coast of Ireland. It’s situated approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the town of Cobh, a picturesque port town known for its maritime history.
You can reach the island by a scenic 15-minute ferry ride from Cobh Pier, which offers stunning views of the harbour and surrounding coastline. The island is easily accessible, making it a popular day trip destination for tourists exploring the Cork area.
Getting There
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To reach Spike Island, you’ll take a 15-minute ferry from Kennedy Pier in Cobh. Access to Cobh is convenient via train (running every 30 minutes on weekdays, hourly on weekends) with the pier just 5 minutes from the station.
Alternatively, the Cobh Connect Bus offers hourly services from Cork City. For parking, visitors can use the free Five Foot Way Car Park (10-minute walk to pier) or paid parking at Cobh Cathedral (5-minute walk).
Additionally, the island offers wheelchair accessibility with adapted pontoons, but take note that there’s a steep 400m walk from the pier to the fort. It’s also good to know that most exhibition spaces and facilities on the island are wheelchair accessible.
Best Time to Go to Spike Island
The best time to visit Spike Island is during the late spring and summer months (May to September). During these times, the weather is typically mild and the island’s attractions, including guided tours and outdoor exhibits, are fully operational.
This period also offers the most scenic views, making it ideal for exploring the island’s rich history and natural beauty.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Spike Island is open year-round with varying hours: from February to March, it’s open weekends only, except during the mid-term break. Meanwhile, it’s open daily from April to October and goes back to weekend-only operations in November.
Tickets range from €4.95 for children under 2 to €26.95 for adults. A visit lasts 3.5 hours, including the ferry ride, guided tour, and free time to explore.
Advanced booking is recommended, and the ticket includes ferry transport, tour, and a visitor’s guide. You can book your tickets here.
Things to Know About Spike Island
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- Spike Island has served multiple roles throughout its history, which spans over 1,300 years. It was originally the site of a 6th-century monastery founded by Saint Mochuda, making it one of the earliest Christian sites in Ireland.
- In the 18th century, the British constructed Fort Mitchell on the island, transforming it into a military fortress to protect Cork Harbour from potential invasion.
- The island was later used as a prison, notably holding Irish political prisoners during various uprisings, including the 1798 Rebellion.
- During the Great Famine (1845 – 1852), Spike Island was used as a detention center. The prison housed up to 2,300 people at its peak, with many suffering from overcrowding and poor conditions.
- Today, Spike Island is a popular tourist destination, often referred to as “Ireland’s Alcatraz” due to its history as a prison.
Visitors can explore the island through guided tours, interactive exhibits, and museums that highlight its military, monastic, and penal history.
What to Expect on Your Visit
Spike Island takes you to 103 acres of history, featuring two scenic trails with historic houses, abandoned villages, and convict cemeteries.
The centerpiece 1804 fortress houses numerous attractions. These include a punishment block, artillery displays, interactive exhibits about Cork Harbour, prison ship recreations, and museums covering Ireland’s journey to independence.
Guided Tours
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A 45-minute guided tour, included with the admission, begins at the ferry arrival point and takes visitors to the Fortress.
Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history as expert storytellers share fascinating tales of captains, convicts, and redcoats. The guides will lead you through historic houses and tell stories behind the island’s fortifications.
For a unique experience, you can choose special tours including the spine-tingling After Dark tour exploring abandoned prisons and solitary cells.
Or you can opt for the Behind the Scenes tour featuring underground tunnels and ending with complimentary rum in the Captain’s Bar.
The island also hosts various events including concerts, comedy shows, and family entertainment.
Self-Guided Tour and Augmented Reality App
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After the guided tour, you can also explore the island independently using a free map. There are two trails – the 20-minute Glacis walk circling the fort and the 45-minute Ring of Spike trail showcasing villages and wildlife.
For an enhanced experience, the Imvizar – Spike Island augmented reality app brings the island’s history to life through 15 interactive stops.
At the stops, you’ll discover historical figures like Eamon DeValera and recreations of significant moments, including the Titanic’s departure and the original monastery.
Cafe and Gift Shop
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After a day of exploring the historical island, you can relax at their spacious cafe serving hot sandwiches, wraps, and beverages.
If you’re looking for something special to take home, they have two gift shops where you’ll find historical books, unique Spike Island souvenirs, and other Irish merchandise.
Events
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Beyond guided tours of this island steeped in history, Spike Island plays host to numerous events throughout the year.
One of its most-awaited events is the Fireworks Festival every July, a dazzling display held in celebration of Independence Day, lighting up the night sky. The island also hosts fun runs, where participants can enjoy scenic views while supporting a good cause.
During Halloween, Spookfest brings a spooky atmosphere to the island with themed activities, games, and ghostly tales. While the Christmas Concerts in December offer festive performances in a historical setting, filling the island with seasonal cheer.
Additionally, the island hosts outdoor movie nights, family-friendly festivals, and historical reenactments, providing a wide range of entertainment throughout the year.
Don’t forget to check out what’s on during your visit. You might be able to catch one of these events!
Travel Tips for Spike Island
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- Book in advance – Tickets often sell out, especially during peak season (May to September). It’s highly recommended to book your tickets online to secure your preferred sailing time and date.
- Wear comfortable shoes – Spike Island involves some walking, including exploring uneven paths and climbing to the fort. Comfortable footwear will make your visit more enjoyable.
- Bring weather-appropriate clothing – The island’s weather can be unpredictable, with wind and rain commonly experienced. Dress in layers, and bring a waterproof jacket, especially for the ferry ride.
- Plan for a 3.5-hour visit – Your visit will include a ferry ride, a guided tour, and free time to explore. Make sure to schedule enough time to fully enjoy the experience.
- Check the ferry schedule – Ferry times vary by season, so it’s best to confirm the schedule before your visit. Arrive early to ensure a smooth departure from Cobh Pier.
- Stop by the cafe and gift shop – After your tour, relax at the on-site cafe, offering homemade food and drinks. The gift shop has unique Spike Island souvenirs to remember your visit.
- Bring a camera – The island offers stunning views of Cork Harbour and its historic sites. Be sure to capture the beauty of the island and its landmarks.
- Join a guided tour – The expert guides provide fascinating insights into the island’s history. If you prefer to explore independently, you can also enjoy self-guided exploration after the tour.