Discover the Historical Charm of Spike Island, Cork
Explore Spike Island in Cork, where history meets stunning natural beauty, offering a unique adventure for every tourist.
Located in the picturesque town of Cobh, Spike Island offers a unique blend of history, breathtaking landscapes, and engaging activities for tourists. This former prison and military fortress is now a must-visit attraction for those exploring County Cork. With its stunning views and rich past, Spike Island is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and families alike.
A brief summary to Spike Island Cork
- Kennedy pier, Cobh, Kilgarvan, Co. Cork, IE
- +353212373455
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your ferry tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during the peak tourist season.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the island involves plenty of walking and hiking.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, and bring layers, as it can be windy on the island.
- Take advantage of guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the island's history.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints, making the most of your time outdoors.
Getting There
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Train
From Cork City, head to Cork Kent Station, which you can reach by taking a bus or a taxi. Once at Cork Kent Station, purchase a ticket for the train to Cobh. The train ride takes about 25 minutes. Upon arrival at Cobh station, exit the station and follow the signs towards the waterfront. Walk straight down to the waterfront area where you'll find Kennedy Pier. Spike Island Ferry services depart from this pier.
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Bus
From Patrick's Street in Cork City, take the Bus Éireann Route 40 towards Cobh. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Disembark at the Cobh bus stop. From there, walk towards the waterfront and continue straight until you reach Kennedy Pier where the Spike Island ferry departs.
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Walking
If you are already in Cobh town, simply make your way towards the waterfront. Head downhill from the town center towards the sea and follow the promenade along the water. Continue walking until you reach Kennedy Pier, where you can board the ferry to Spike Island.
Discover more about Spike Island Cork
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1 Pearse Square
0.1 km
Explore the beauty and history of Pearse Square in Cobh, a picturesque gem on Ireland's southern coast, perfect for sightseeing and relaxation.
Old Church
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of the Old Church in Cloyne, County Cork - a hidden gem of Ireland's ecclesiastical heritage.
Dundanion House Bridge
10.2 km
Explore Dundanion House Bridge, a historical landmark in Blackrock, Cork, where history meets stunning natural beauty.
Kindred Spirits: Choctaw Native American Monument
10.3 km
Explore the Kindred Spirits monument in Co. Cork, a stunning tribute to Choctaw Native American heritage amidst Ireland's captivating landscapes.
Red Abbey Tower
13.2 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Red Abbey Tower, a medieval gem in Ballintemple, Cork, Ireland.
Nano Nagle Place
13.3 km
Explore Nano Nagle Place, Cork's enchanting heritage museum, featuring historical exhibits, serene gardens, and a delightful café for a unique cultural experience.
Father Mathew Statue
13.4 km
Discover the Father Mathew Statue in Cork, a historic landmark symbolizing the city's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Nano Nagle Bridge
13.4 km
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National Monument - Cork
13.4 km
Discover the National Monument in Cork, a historical landmark celebrating Ireland's independence with stunning architecture and rich cultural significance.
Cork Historic Walking Tours
13.4 km
Discover Cork's vibrant history and culture through engaging walking tours that unveil the city's hidden treasures and legendary tales.
Cork Ghost Tour
13.5 km
Explore the haunted streets of Cork with the Cork Ghost Tour, where chilling tales and ghostly legends await around every corner.
Crawford Art Gallery
13.5 km
Discover the beauty of Irish and international art at Crawford Art Gallery, a cultural centerpiece in the heart of Cork, Ireland.
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
13.5 km
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Elizabeth Fort
13.6 km
Explore Elizabeth Fort, Cork's iconic historical landmark, and immerse yourself in Ireland's rich military heritage with stunning city views.
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
13.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Spike Island Tours Cobh
0.0 km
Discover Spike Island, a captivating historical gem in Cork Harbour, once a fortress and prison, now a must-visit tourist attraction.
Titanic Experience Cobh
0.1 km
Dive into the rich maritime history at the Titanic Experience Cobh, where stories of hope and tragedy come alive in an immersive setting.
RMS Lusitania Memorial
0.1 km
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John F. Kennedy Park
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of John F. Kennedy Park in Cobh, a must-visit memorial park for all travelers.
The Titanic Trail
0.2 km
Discover the Titanic Trail in Cobh, Co. Cork, a poignant journey through maritime history and the last port of call for the Titanic.
St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking architecture and rich history of St. Colman's Cathedral in Cobh, a must-visit for every traveler to Ireland.
St. Colman's Cathedral
0.2 km
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Irish Seafarers Memorial Anchor
0.2 km
Discover the Irish Seafarers Memorial Anchor in Cobh, a touching tribute to maritime history amidst stunning coastal views.
East Beach
0.2 km
Unwind at East Beach in Cobh – a tranquil escape with stunning coastal views and a charming atmosphere perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Sirius Arts Centre
0.3 km
Discover contemporary art and rich culture at Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh, Ireland, where creativity meets maritime history.
Annie Moore Monument
0.4 km
Explore the Annie Moore Monument in Cobh, Ireland, honoring the first immigrant to Ellis Island, a symbol of hope for countless Irish emigrants.
Cobh Heritage Centre. The Queenstown Story
0.4 km
Discover Cobh Heritage Centre, where Ireland's maritime history comes alive through engaging exhibits and personal stories of emigration.
Cobh
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant charm and rich maritime history of Cobh, a picturesque town nestled on the stunning coast of County Cork, Ireland.
Cobh Rebel Walking Tours
0.4 km
Discover the rich history of Cobh, Ireland, through captivating walking tours that unveil tales of rebellion and maritime legacy.
Harbour Row
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant maritime heritage and stunning views at Harbour Row in Cobh, a colorful gem along Ireland's coast.
Essential places to dine
The Castle Cafe
9.3 km
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Flemings Restaurant - Country House
10.1 km
Experience modern French cuisine at its finest in the heart of Tivoli, Cork's charming countryside at Flemings Restaurant - Country House.
Silver Key Bar & Restaurant
10.5 km
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Golden Elephant
10.5 km
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The Gallery Restaurant
10.8 km
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The Barn Gastropub
11.5 km
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Salt Food & Wine
12.3 km
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Sophie's Rooftop Cork
12.8 km
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Crawford & Co
12.8 km
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Iberian Way
13.1 km
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Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House
13.1 km
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Bocelli Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
13.1 km
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Market Lane
13.1 km
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Goldie
13.2 km
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Cork & Fork
13.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mahon Point Shopping Centre
8.1 km
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Kilkenny Design
10.0 km
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Douglas Village Shopping Centre
10.3 km
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Cork City FC Official Merchandise Store
10.3 km
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Cork Craft & Design
10.6 km
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Home Store + More
12.4 km
Uncover a treasure trove of unique homewares and decor at Home Store + More in Cork, where quality meets style.
Turners Cross Retail Park
12.4 km
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Olori
13.1 km
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Mother Jones Flea Market
13.2 km
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York St Clobber
13.2 km
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Sheena's Boutique
13.2 km
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Merchants Quay Shopping Centre
13.3 km
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Carrolls Irish Gifts
13.3 km
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Born Clothing
13.3 km
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Penneys
13.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O'Sullivans Bar & Restaurant, Douglas
10.4 km
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South County
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The Beer Garden
12.6 km
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Coughlans Bar
12.9 km
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L'Atitude 51 Wine Bar
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The Poor Relation
13.1 km
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No.76
13.2 km
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Arthur Mayne's Pharmacy
13.2 km
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The Oliver Plunkett
13.2 km
Discover the heart of Cork at The Oliver Plunkett, where vibrant atmosphere meets delicious food and live entertainment.
Old Oak
13.2 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Old Oak, where traditional Irish hospitality meets delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
The Long Valley Bar
13.3 km
Discover the charm of The Long Valley Bar, an authentic Irish pub in Cork serving traditional food and local brews in a cozy atmosphere.
The Hi-B Bar
13.3 km
Experience the lively charm of The Hi-B Bar in Cork, where live music meets a vibrant pub atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Shelbourne Bar
13.3 km
Experience authentic Irish culture and hospitality at The Shelbourne Bar, a charming pub in Cork's Victorian Quarter with traditional fare and live music.
Cask
13.3 km
Experience Cork's vibrant cocktail scene at Cask, where unique drinks and delicious tapas meet in a stylish setting.
Paladar
13.4 km
Experience the artistry of cocktails at Paladar, Cork's premier cocktail bar in the vibrant Victorian Quarter.
