Fort Mitchel: Sentinel of Cork Harbour
Explore centuries of Irish history at Fort Mitchel on Spike Island, from ancient monastery to infamous prison and military fortress.
Fort Mitchel, a star-shaped fortress on Spike Island in Cork Harbour, has a rich and varied history. Originally built in the 19th century to defend against invasion, it later became a notorious prison, earning the nickname 'Ireland's Alcatraz'. Today, visitors can explore its historic grounds and learn about its captivating past.
A brief summary to Fort Mitchel
- Spike Island, Co. Cork, IE
- +353858518818
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
- Allow at least 3.5 hours for your visit, including the ferry journey and time to explore the island.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the island's trails and exploring the fort.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance, as it varies depending on the season.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the fort's history and significance.
Getting There
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Ferry
The only way to reach Fort Mitchel is by ferry from Kennedy Pier in Cobh. Cobh is easily accessible by car or train from Cork City. Irish Rail operates hourly train services from Cork to Cobh, with a journey time of approximately 25 minutes and tickets costing €3-€5. Once in Cobh, Kennedy Pier is a short walk from the train station. The ferry journey to Spike Island takes about 10-15 minutes. Return ferry tickets, which include admission to Spike Island and a guided tour, cost €27.95 for adults, €14.95 for children (under 12), and €4.95 for children under 2. Family tickets are also available. It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available in Cobh. Free parking is located at the Five Foot Way Car Park near the Cobh Heritage Centre, a 10-minute walk to Kennedy Pier. Paid parking is available at the Cobh Cathedral car park, a 5-minute walk to the pier. On-street parking in Cobh is limited to 3 hours. Be aware that parking is not allowed on Kennedy Pier, and clamping is enforced.
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