Spike Island

Spike Island: The island with many histories. From a 6th century monastery, to a fortress, to a prison. Today: An award winning must-see tourist attraction.

This is Ireland's Alcatraz. It is an island of 42 hectares (103 acres). Its largest structure is Fort Mitchel, a 200 year old prison fortress, which once held over 2300 prisoners. The prison closed in 2004.

History of Spike Island

Before its use as a prison, it served as a military fortress (since the early 17th century). During the 18th century it defended against possible attacks from France and Spain. The site still retains some heavy artillary guns on display for visitors to see.

Although the Irish Free State was founded in December 1922 following the Irish War of Independence and subsequent Anglo-Irish Treaty, Spike Island was retained by the British (under the Treaty Ports provision). Thus, the Royal Navy still occupied Spike Island. It was not until July 1938 that soverenty was ceded to Ireland.

Following the handover to Ireland, Spike Island was used as a military base for the Irish Army, the FCA (army reserves) and the Navy.

In the later part of the 20th century, it served as the location of a youth correctional facility.

In 2009 ownership was transferred to Cork County Council so that it could be developed as a tourist attraction, and in 2015, tours from Cobh commenced.

Visiting Spike Island

Spike Island was named Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards in September 2017, so if you are visiting Ireland, be sure to add a Spike Island tour to your agenda.

Visits to Spike Island typically last about 3½ hours. The ticket price includes the ferry there (and back!) 15 minutes each way, a one hour guided tour followed by time to explore on your own and use the café.

Spike Island is located in Cork Harbour, and is accessed by ferry from Cobh at the Kennedy pier. Cars may park free of charge at the Cobh Heritage Center and at Cobh Cathedral. Cobh is located 23 km south east of Cork city and is accessible by car and train. Click the map pin icon to view the location on a map.

For more information about Spike Island, the tours available, to book a ticket online (recommended) and to see the ferry times, click the "More info" button.