Spike Island: Ireland's Historic Prison Island
Discover centuries of Irish history at Spike Island, from ancient monastery to fortress and infamous prison, in the heart of Cork Harbour.
Explore Spike Island, a historic island in Cork Harbour with a rich and often dark past. Once a monastic settlement, it later became a military fortress and a notorious prison, known as 'Ireland's Alcatraz'. Today, visitors can delve into its layered history through guided tours, museums, and scenic walking trails.
A brief summary to Spike Island Tours Cobh
- Kennedy pier, Cobh, Kilgarvan, Co. Cork, IE
- +353212373455
- Visit website
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, guided tour, and time to explore the island.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a good deal of walking involved, including a steep incline from the pier to the fort.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance, as times vary depending on the season.
- Consider bringing layers of clothing, as the island can be exposed to the elements.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Cork City, take the train from Kent Station to Cobh. Trains depart hourly, and the journey takes approximately 25 minutes. From the Cobh train station, walk down Westbourne Place, keeping the water to your right. The Spike Island ticket office and ferry departure point are located on Kennedy Pier, a 5-minute walk from the train station. A single train ticket from Cork to Cobh costs approximately €3-€5.
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Driving
From Cork City, follow the N8 East, signposted for Dublin/N25. Keep right to stay on the N25, following signs for Rosslare and Waterford. Take exit 3 onto the R624, signposted for Cobh. At the roundabout, take the fourth exit onto the R624 for Cobh. At the next roundabout, take the first exit, continuing on the R624. Cross the bridge and turn right, following the road to Cobh town center. Parking is available at the Five Foot Way Car Park (free, 10-minute walk to the pier) or at Cobh Cathedral Car Park (paid, 5-minute walk). Note that parking in Cobh town center is limited to 3 hours. Kennedy Pier has no parking and enforces clamping. From Kennedy Pier, purchase your ferry ticket. The ferry to Spike Island costs €27.95 for an adult, €14.95 for a child (under 12), and €74.95 for a family ticket. The ferry journey to Spike Island takes 10-15 minutes.
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Walking
From Cobh town center, walk towards the waterfront. Follow the promenade along the harbor, passing the Titanic Cobh memorial. Continue to Kennedy Pier, where you'll find the Spike Island ticket office and the ferry departure point. Purchase your ferry ticket. The ferry to Spike Island costs €27.95 for an adult, €14.95 for a child (under 12), and €74.95 for a family ticket. The ferry journey to Spike Island takes 10-15 minutes.
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