spike island tours reviews

Visiting Spike Island: The Isolated Irish Prison Known As ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 31, 2023

A visit to Spike Island prison is arguably one of the most unique things to do in Cork .

And it’s easily one of the most popular things to do in Cobh (it’s up there with the  very  popular Titanic Experience).

If you’re not familiar with the story of Spike Island prison and if you’re visiting Cobh in 2024, you’re in for a treat-and-a-half.

In the guide below, you’ll find the history of Spike Island, info on the tour and where to visit nearby. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about Spike Island in Cork

Photo by dleeming69 (shutterstock)

So, a visit to Spike Island prison is fairly straightforward – you need to grab a ticket and hop onto a little ferry that leaves from Cobh .

However, there are a handful of things worth knowing before you plan your visit (booking in advance is needed!).

1. Location

A short ferry ride from the gorgeous little fishing village of Cobh in County Cork lies a 103-acre island that has been used as a place of worship, defense, confinement and punishment.

2. Getting there

To get to Spike Island in Cork you’ll need to get a ferry from Kennedy Pier in Cobh. The ferry takes around 15 minutes each way and leaves several times each day.

There are several different ticket types for the Spike Island tours (more on the various tours below). Price wise, you’re looking at (note: prices may change):

• Adult: €26.95
• Child (12 or under): €13.95
• Family (2 Adults and 1 or 2 kids): €65.95
• Senior Citizen (65+): €21.95
• Student: €21.95

4. How long the Spike Island tours take

When you buy a ticket for one of the Spike Island tours, your journey over on the ferry is included. Your return ticket is for 3.5 hours later, so you should allow at least 4.5 hours for a visit.

About Spike Island prison

A short ferry ride from the gorgeous little fishing village of Cobh in County Cork lies a 103-acre island that has been used as a place of worship, defence, confinement and punishment.

Spike Island prison was originally the site of a monastic settlement, but for over 200 years it has been dominated by the star fort named ‘Fort Mitchel’.

In the last 1300 years, Spike Island has been host to a 6th-century Monastery, a 24-acre fortress, the largest convict depot in the world in Victorian times and centuries of island dwellings.

The island’s vast and varied history has included monks and monasteries, rioters and redcoats, captains and convicts and sinners and saints.

At one point, the island was used to house convicts prior to penal transportation, and this is where the nickname of ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’ came from.

Spike Island history: The story behind Ireland’s Alcatraz

Via Spike Island on Facebook

One of the reason the Spike Island tours are so popular is thanks to Spike Island’s history… it’s  very  dark history.

According to reports, when Spike Island prison was the world’s largest prison in the 1850s, the treatment of convicts was nothing short of horrific.

The ‘Punishment Block’

A ‘Punishment Block’ was the only purpose-built cell block in the Fort, and it was built in response to the murder of Warder William Reddy in 1856.

It was made up of 28 solitary confinement cells and housed the most dangerous prisoners on the island.

Each prisoner was heavily chained and clothed in black from head to toe, with a veil hiding all but their eyes. In the blocks early years, the cells were furnished with only a stool, and prisoners slept on the floor.

Mass graves

There were several suicide attempts and the Punishment Block was the main reason that Spike Island was described as “Hell on earth” by many.

Mass graves, which litter the island, are the result of foul conditions and overcrowding during the worst of Ireland’s famine years.

Spike Island tours

There are 2 different Spike Island tours that you can head off on: the Regular Tour and the After Dark Tour.

The Regular Tour should suit those of you that are on a day-trip to Cobh while the After Dark Tour is a different kettle of fish altogether.

The Regular Tour

The first of the 2 Spike Island tours is the Regular Tour . Included in your ticket is a guided tour from where the ferry lets you off to the Fortress.

The guided tour lasts around 45 minutes and during this time a skilled storyteller will take you on a journey through Spike Islands history.

When the tour ends, you can explore the forts and the prison on your own.

The After Dark Tour

Those that embark upon the after-dark tour on Spike Island will be told the stories of several murders that took place on the island.

One of these murders was of nationalist Patrick White, who was killed during a spiteful act of revenge.

Another story tells of the brutal murder of a prison warder in the 1800s. This horrific killing was carried out by some of the many dangerous inhabitants that were imprisoned on Spike.

The tour also takes visitors along the mysterious underground tunnels and cells that are inaccessible during the day time tours.

Things to do near Spike Island

One of the beauties of Spike Island prison is that it’s a short spin away from a clatter of other attractions, both man-made and natural.

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Spike Island in Cork (plus places to eat and where to grab a post-adventure pint!).

1. Food in Cobh

Photo left: The Commodore Hotel. Photo right: Harbour Browns Steakhouse (Facebook)

When you arrive back from Spike, the chances are you’ll have worked up an appetite. Thankfully, there are some excellent restaurants in Cobh a short ramble aways from where you’re dropped off (there are also plenty of Cobh hotels if you want to spend the night).

2. Attractions within walking distance of the pier

Photo by Peter OToole (shutterstock)

There’s plenty of other things to do in Cobh when you finish up at Spike. One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Titanic Experience Cobh , but there’s also St. Coleman’s Catheral , the Deck of Cards and much more.

3. Fota Wildlife Park

Photos via Fota Wildlife Park on Facebook

The brilliant Fota Wildlife Park is a stone’s throw from Cobh town centre (you’ll need to drive) and it’s a great spot if you’re after more unique Cork attractions .

FAQs about visiting Spike Island in Cork

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from the Spike Island tours to what to expect from a visit.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

How do you get to Spike Island?

You get to Spike Island via a ferry from Kennedy pier in the centre of Cobh. The ferry takes around 15 minutes each way and leaves several times each day.

Is Spike Island really worth visiting?

Yes! Spike Island in Cork is a fantastic little spot to escape to when visiting Cork. The history is dark and interesting and the reviews for the Spike Island tours are excellent.

Is there much to do nearby?

Yep! You’ve plenty to see in Cobh itself or you’re a short spin away from the likes of Fota and Cork City.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Myles Fitzmaurice

Friday 17th of June 2022

Looking forward to visiting Spike Island in early July, what is the best time to visit.

Sunday 8th of March 2020

Interesting, this dark part in the history of Ireland. No one has ever mentioned this before. Sort of scared the day lights out of me. But would certainly like to visit it the next time around when I get to Ireland.

• See all photos

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A trip to Spike Island

Explore Ireland’s most notorious island…

Across the waters from the harbour town of Cobh sits Spike Island, one of the most notorious island prisons in the world…

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If you visit Cobh , a small town on Ireland’s southwest coast, odds are your thighs will ache at some point. With streets that rise up from the waterfront with punishing inclines, it’s somewhat inevitable.

Coming down, you feel compelled to move at a trot; going up, it’s different story. After taking in an incredible view from St Colman’s Cathedral, I descend Barrack Hill as an elderly man is inching his way up. “You wouldn’t be long working off breakfast in this place,” he grumbles to me.

“Deck of Cards”, Cobh, County Cork

© Tourism Ireland

Steep though they may be, it’s these hilly streets that make Cobh one of the most frequently photographed towns in Ireland's Ancient East . Wedged into the side of a hill, with candy-coloured houses stacked in rows, the town boasts elegant Victorian bandstands, a bustling harbour and one of the most beautiful Georgian terraces in all of Ireland.

The sea dominates; vast ocean vistas present themselves at unexpected moments and the weather seems to be on a perpetual conveyor belt as it rolls across the Atlantic. It’s not uncommon to be cast into preternatural darkness from a looming rain cloud one minute and to be bathed in sharp sunlight the next.

The bandstand on The Prom, Cobh

Cobh streetscape

Down at the harbour is where Cobh’s history comes into sharp focus. From this very point, more than three million people departed between 1815 and 1970; some to penal colonies, some to better lives, some to their death.

The town is intrinsically linked to two of the world’s most famous shipping disasters: the torpedoing of the Lusitania in 1915, and the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. Today, the Titanic Experience Cobh overlooks a harbour frequented by luxury cruise ships – Cobh is the only port in Ireland with a dedicated cruise ship berth.

But over the last few years, another visitor attraction has been bringing the curious to this little Victorian seaport in County Cork: Spike Island . Tours have been departing from Cobh to Spike since 2015, and in 2017 it was named “Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction” at the World Travel Awards.

The Spike Island ferry

The 12-minute ferry to Spike Island is short but scenic, with passengers squeezed into the small outside space to make the most of the dramatic departing views of Cobh. Most seem to know something of the place, but few know what to expect. “It’s kind of like Ireland’s Alcatraz, right?” an American woman asks me as we roll across Cork Harbour, seagulls cawing.

Truth is that it is and it isn’t. Spike, like Alcatraz, is certainly one of the most notorious island prisons in the world, but it’s a lot more besides. It was once a monastery and a fortress. But it was also a home. People lived here until as late as 1985 when a prison riot led to a forced evacuation.

A tour guide welcomes people to the Spike Island tour

Spike Island

As we gather on the small pier on Spike and meet our tour guide, Fionnán, it does appear to be an island like any other, but the deserted houses, some well-preserved on the outside, lend an eerie air. In its heyday in the late 18th century, almost 300 people who were either part of the military or their family lived here. They grew their own food, schooled their children, picked periwinkles on beaches, held dances, and socialised together.

Fionnán explains how they weren’t the first to make this place a home. A monastic settlement was built here in 635AD, creating a safe haven for monks who farmed the land and fished the waters. Today, nothing remains of the monastery, instead the huge hulk of what was known as Fort Mitchell is what dominates.

Deserted houses on Spike Island

Over the course of about 400 years, Spike was used as a prison four times with the first being in the 1600s and the last being in 1985. It’s remarkable to think that it only closed in 2004.

“Believe it or not, Spike was never intended to be a prison,” Fionnán explains. “It was built in 1804 as a star-shaped fort to protect the British Empire from all its enemies. But in the 19th century after the Great Famine, Spike became one of the biggest prisons in the British Isles. There were over 2,500 prisoners and over 1,000 died in the first six years of its existence; a lot of the people here were children.”

Entrance to Spike Island

View of Cobh from Spike Island

Up until now, we’ve been outside the prison walls, and it’s an almost bucolic environment with tree-shaded paths, swathes of beautifully cut grass and glimpses of the sea, but as Fionnán finishes his guided tour with an extensive description of the prison riots of 1985, we are left to our own devices and it’s time to enter Spike.

Prison cells on Spike Island

The first thing that strikes you is the size of the place. Spike is huge and it can be a little difficult to know how to orientate yourself. I choose to go counter-clockwise, making my way to the modern prison first. I am completely alone.

It’s an unsettling experience to walk these corridors with their steel gates and sickly yellow corridors. The prison cells are as they were left – washed in cold, dispiriting tones of grey and occasionally inhabited by models of former prisoners that frequently give me a scare.

Prison cell on Spike Island

Spike Island history

There are After Dark Tours on Spike Island, but they are only for the brave. Several times walking around, I think I hear footsteps behind me. At other times, it’s alarming to find myself alone in the notorious Victorian Punishment Block where water drips and despair seems to seep through the stones.

Museum exhibition

Visitors are given around 3.5 hours to explore Spike Island, and the time goes by remarkably quickly. The exhibitions here – whether the excellent detailing of the prison riots in the modern prison, or the tales of dances and socialising for locals in Mitchel Hall – are detailed and compelling.

Views from Spike Island

I save some time before the departure of the ferry to do the 2.4km Ring of Spike walk outside the fort walls. Despite the lush grass, silvery waters of the Atlantic and soft birdsong, the history of the island is never far away. On the 45-minute walk, I pass a convict’s graveyard, a former 19th century hospital called Bleak House, and the tumble-down, ivy-choked buildings of the old village.

It’s an idyllic respite from the often claustrophobic conditions of the prison, and everything from the broad views of Kinsale Harbour  to the startling emerald colour of the grass seems to come into sharp relief.

As the rain starts to fall, it’s a relief to see the ferry. All aboard, we start the slow journey back to Cobh, grateful that none of us have been left behind.

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A Tour of Spike Island – What to Expect When Visiting

I’d never even heard of Spike Island two years ago, which can probably be forgiven as it is a fairly recent tourist attraction. However, once I did hear about it, it quickly became clear that this little island was something special.

Spike Island or Fortress Spike Island has quickly become a must-do experience for tourists from near and far and is sometimes referred to as “Ireland’s Alcatraz”. In the few short years it has been open to the public, it has won a number of awards including Europe’s leading tourist attraction 2017 at the World Travel Awards.

Intrigued? I certainly was. You only have to read the Tripadvisor reviews to see that it’s not just good marketing. People are genuinely raving about this little island located in Cork Harbour. When the only negative comments on Tripadvisor are that people didn’t have enough time on the island, you know it’s got to be worth a visit.

Well, there was only one way to find out what all the fuss was about! So earlier this month I got organised and made the trip out to Spike Island along with José and my parents too. I didn’t fancy waiting till next year and regular tours stop for winter at the end of this month (group tours of 15+ can still be booked during winter months).

Update: it seems the season has been extended this year and weekend tours will be running into November. Keep an eye on the Fortress Spike Island Facebook page for the most up to date info.

Getting to Fortress Spike Island

Tours to Spike Island leave from Kennedy Pier in Cobh and let’s be honest, any excuse to go to Cobh is a good one! Having said that my dad wasn’t too impressed with the idea of heading to Cobh in October. He was assuming the weather would be brutal. Yet the beauty of the Irish weather is that you never know what you’re going to get, at any time of year! We got lucky and blue skies and sunshine greeted us on the morning of our trip.

Stunning views of Cobh as the ferry departs.

When I booked online, there had been just two tours available at 12pm or 2pm but depending on demand more trips may be available. No doubt the result of the fine weather and the cruise ship in port, a number of additional tours were added the day were were going. From our accommodation near the pier, we watched the queues grow from early morning.

Despite the additional tours, we still had a bit of a delay heading off when it transpired that our trip had been overbooked. Thankfully all was sorted without tears and those left behind got to follow us over to the island on a rib, leaving everyone on the ferry jealous that they weren’t last to board!

We took the scenic route to Spike Island, circling Haulbowline Island, a naval base and headquarters of the Irish Naval Service. I thought it was all part of the tour but once we arrived on Spike Island we were informed that it depends on the tide. Due the fact there is a sandbar in the harbour between Spike Island and Cobh, it isn’t always possible to go directly across, in which case you must go around Haulbowline!

On the Island

On reaching Spike Island, we were met at the pier and given a quick briefing. It’s a quick 10-15 mins trip to get there so once on the island, you should have over 3 hours before the return trip. You have the option of doing your own thing and self-guiding for the entire time or taking a tour (lasting between 60-75 mins) first and then exploring on your own.

We chose to do the guided tour and we were very glad we did. Our guide John G (John is still a very popular name in Ireland, so the initial is required!) was really fun, informative and most importantly loud and clear, which meant my hard of hearing dad (also John!) was able to enjoy the tour too. 

View across the harbour back to Cobh as we walked up to the Fort.

We started the tour with a short uphill climb (transport is available, if needed) towards the 18th century star-shaped Fort Mitchel, stopping along the way to hear some of the history of the island and to catch our breath. The hills are actually man-made and while you might not appreciate that while you’re climbing, they were an important part of the defensive structure of the island and at least offer stunning views back towards Cobh now!

History of Spike Island

The island has a long and fascinating history. From 6th century Monastery to convict depot, to Fortress, to prison. You name it, Spike Island has seen it! As you can imagine there are many stories and many characters to learn about throughout your visit.

Due to it’s important strategic location, there has been a military presence on Spike Island for over two centuries. There have been three forts on the island and the third fort, which remains today, was built between 1804 and the 1860s. Originally called Fort Westmoreland, it is now named Fort Mitchel after John Mitchel, a nationalist hero who was imprisoned on Spike Island in the 1840s.

In 1847 Spike Island became a convict depot, with prisoners held here before being transported to Van Diemen’s Land (now Tasmania) or Bermuda. By the early 1850s there were over 2,300 prisoners on Spike Island. This made it the largest convict prison in Britain and Ireland. Conditions were appalling with prisoners crammed into rooms and treatment was brutal. It was so bad that letters were sent from the colonies asking the guards to ease up. The men were arriving so broken in mind and spirit after Spike Island, that they were of little use when they got there.    

Most recently the island was used as a prison for young offenders between 1985 and 2004. My parents remembered it featuring on the news because of a riot in 1985, which resulted in international coverage. Details of the riot and old footage can be seen as you explore the buildings and the A Block, a large dormitory building which was burned down during the riot remains a ruin to this day. 

An old newspaper article and information panel about the 1985 riot on display.

What remains of the A Block after the 1985 riot.

Following the riot a number of the inmates (mainly imprisoned for joyriding, there were no serious offenders on the island) climbed onto the roof of one of the buildings and refused to come down. Our guide told us that the mother of one of the inmates got word of what was going and and made her way to Spike Island from Cork. She got hold of a megaphone and after 24hrs of protesting, it took her just a couple of minutes of yelling to get her son down. Once he did, the rest of the inmates followed not long after. Never underestimate the wrath of an Irish mammy! 

So much to see, so little time!

On the tour we got access inside Bastion 2 to see the 6 inch gun, which is now inside having been moved from it’s original exposed position on Bastion 3. It was the main coast defence gun on Spike Island but was never fired at an enemy. However, it was fired for testing and resulted in shattered windows on the mainland. The fact that nobody had been informed it would be happening, didn’t help matters either. Oops!

The 6″ Gun in No. 2 Bastion.

Another benefit of the tour is that the guide points out what you can see in each area, so you can decide what you really want to do after the tour.  Among other things you can visit the purpose built Punishment Block, the Artillery Gun Park, the Children’s Prison and the 1985 cells which were built after the riot. We headed off to see as much as we could!

The 1985 Cells.

We also took time to enjoy the magnificent panoramic views out to the mouth of the harbour from Bastion 3 and back towards Cobh from Bastion 6. There are also a number of walking trails, including one which covers the entire perimeter of the fort but unfortunately we just didn’t have time for it all. We didn’t stop for lunch either as we figured we could just eat back in Cobh but there is a large café on Spike Island with plenty of seating. There are snacks and pre-made sandwiches and wraps available, so you can grab something quickly if you’re hungry but want to keep going.

A cruise ship leaving the harbour.

The walkway around the perimeter of Fort Mitchel.

It really isn’t possible to experience everything on the island in just a few hour but in the future there might be the option to spend longer there. You may even be able to stay overnight eventually! Until then you can always go back for an after dark tour or the Spike Island Cinema Club. Scary movie, anyone?

This tiny island has played such a huge part in Irish history and visiting is definitely a fascinating experience. I guess it’s not a bad thing to leave people wanting more and trust me, a visit to Spike Island will definitely do that.

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Caroline Littleboy

Thanks so much for sharing this! My Mammy was born on Spike and met and married my Dad who was stationed there. I lived there on there until we moved to the main land Cobh. Love seeing pictures that bring so many memories.

Thanks for your lovely comment Caroline and I’m glad the pictures took you back. What an amazing place to have lived. Cobh too. So much history. I’ll be adding a post on Cobh soon so keep an eye out! Thanks, Kerry.

peppermintdolly

Wow I didn’t know this place existed at all – I went to Alcatraz when I visited my Sister in San Francisco – but I didn’t know we had our very own version so close to home, must check it out the next time I’m down that way! Thanks for sharing!

Rebecca | http://www.peppermintdolly.com

Thanks Rebecca. You definitely should check it out if you get the chance. It’s a fascinating place and well worth a visit. It still amazes me how often I come across places I haven’t heard of in Ireland. There is so much to see and do in this little country!

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Spike Island Adventure

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Spike Island Adventure - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

We look forward to welcoming you to Spike Island, a captivating destination rich in history and natural beauty.

Before you embark on a journey to ireland’s infamous island, here’s everything you need to know for a memorable visit., operating times.

February & March: Open weekends only (daily opening times for Mid-Term Break).

April-October: Open 7 days a week.

November: Open for tours on weekends only.

Our full sailing schedule is available on our book tickets page, simply select your tickets and then choose your preferred sailing date and time on the calendar.

VISIT DURATION

A visit to Spike Island is 3.5 hours long including the ferry crossing. On arrival at the island, you will join one of our experienced guides for a guided tour to the fort – this typically takes 40 minutes. From there, you are free to self-explore the buildings and island in your own time.

There is a cafe and gift shop on site as well as toilet facilities.

Our cafe offers a wide range of freshly baked goods, wraps, and sandwiches as well as homemade soup. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.

Our gift shops offer a selection of Spike Island souvenirs, gifts, books and more.

TICKET PRICES & BOOKING INFORMATION

Your ticket includes the return ferry journey to and from the island, a guided tour with one of our expert storytellers, a free visitor’s guide, and time to explore our 104-acre island.

Spaces are limited and advance booking is highly recommended, click here to book your tickets.

TOUR OPTIONS/EXPERIENCES

There are two ways to experience Spike Island:

• REGULAR DAY TOURS – Sail across Cork Harbour before embarking on a journey through time at Ireland’s infamous prison island. You will join a guided tour on arrival with one of our expert storytellers before self-exploring the fortress and island using your free visitor map. Expect authentic prison buildings, fascinating museums and exhibitions as well as scenic walking trails with breathtaking views. There is also a free fairy fortress map and children’s history quiz trail to keep the little ones entertained. (Duration: 3.5 hours)
• AFTER DARK TOURS – Explore Spike Island in a whole new light – or should we say darkness! Candlelit corridors, eerie tunnels and abandoned prison cells await you on our access-all areas After Dark tours. On this fully guided experience, our expert guides will dive into the dark history of what was once Ireland’s most notorious prison with spine-chilling tales of the murderers and deviants who once roamed its halls. ( Duration 3 hours, Suitable for ages 16+ only) For more details on our After Dark Tours click here

GROUP BOOKINGS

Spike Island is open to pre-booked groups all year round. Groups of 15 people or more enjoy a 15% discount per ticket. Make your group booking online or email our team at [email protected] for more information.

We also provide a school tours programme at Spike Island. If you’re looking for an exciting and educational school tour for your students, click here for more information.

DIRECTIONS & TRAVEL INFORMATION

Spike Island is reached by ferry from Kennedy Pier, Cobh. The ferry journey takes approximately 15 minutes each way.

Cobh is well served by public transport which is the perfect way to travel to Cobh. Kennedy Pier is just a five-minute walk from Cobh Railway Station with trains to Cobh every 30 minutes on weekdays and every hour on weekends. irishrail.ie

The Cobh Connect Bus has hourly services from Cork City. Disembark at the Park Lane stop which is a 10 minute walk downhill to the pier. cobhconnect.ie

Free parking is available at the Five Foot Way Car Park near the Cobh Heritage Centre, which is one kilometre from the town centre and ferry departure point, a 10-minute walk.

Paid parking is available at the car park at Cobh Cathedral, which is a five-minute walk to our kiosk and ferry departure point.

On-street parking in Cobh town centre is limited to 3 hours and is therefore unsuitable for visitors to Spike Island.

ACCESSIBILITY

At Spike Island, we strive to be as accessible as possible. There are two wheelchair-accessible pontoons and walkways in Cobh and on Spike Island to allow access to our passenger ferry.

There is a 400m walk from the island pier, with a short but steep incline to the fort. 10 of our 12 exhibition spaces are wheelchair accessible and there are fully accessible toilet facilities both at the pier and in our on-site cafe.

For more information, click here .

Hop Over to Spike Island

The island brims with stories of the incredible history of its former occupants from monks and farmers to rioters and murderers.

Founded as a monastic settlement, the fate of Spike Island went very dark indeed. First, as a fortress built to defend the British Empire, then as the gruesome prison whose very name chilled the blood of convicts across the world.

A fifteen-minute ferry ride from Cobh, Spike Island has some fascinating tales to tell. The tour takes 3.5 hours in total including a 45-minute island induction from the trained storytellers and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, so give yourself at least four hours for this gem. There are two tours available. The family-friendly daytime tours allow you to explore what was once the world’s largest prison, view the tiny cottages that have arguably some of the most beautiful views in Ireland and learn about the fascinating military and penal history of the island.

The not-at-all-child-friendly After Dark Tour shines some light on the harrowing history of the island, including the ghastly murders, mass graves and why its infamous punishment block was referred to as “hell on earth” by all who knew of it.

Tours leave from Kennedy Pier in Cobh a few times a day and the ticket price includes the ferry crossing. The island has a cafe, toilets, and buggy-friendly routes. We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance as they sell out regularly. For more information and to book tickets, visit The Spike Island website .

“A visit to Spike Island prison is arguably one of the most unique things to do in Cork… Spike Island in Cork is a fantastic little spot to escape to when visiting Cork. The history is dark and interesting and the reviews for the Spike Island tours are excellent.” – The Irish Roadtrip

Related Activities

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Half-Day Spike Island Tour from Cork Harbour

• Transfer to/from Spike Island by ferry
• 45 minute optional guided visit of the island
• Free map and app for each visitor
• Extensive time to explore the island on a self guided basis on the day of visit
• Entry/Admission - Spike Island
• Entry/Admission - Cobh
• J.F. Kennedy Pier, The Stall, West Beach, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland Please meet us at Kennedy pier, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Cork. Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure time to board.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 127 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at J.F. Kennedy Pier The Stall, West Beach, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland Please meet us at Kennedy pier, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Cork. Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure time to board. See address & details
• Pass by Cobh Cork Harbour
• 1 Spike Island Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Fort Mitchel Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 3 Spike Museum Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• uzengirl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Scenery that the Cliffs of Mohr center cannot duplicate and great conversation too!! This was a terrific outdoor experience, walking along the cliffs and talking with Pat! The views were terrific!! The ever changing scenes as the ocean fog come in and out, the bashing Atlantic waves- these are things you cannot experience by just going to the Cliffs of Mohr center, along with hords of other people. Please note that this briskly paced walk has a very steep incline at the end. If your balance is questionable or your knees are mildly arthritic- strongly recommend bringing poles. Read more Written March 6, 2024
• ByronR170 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A boat with a multigenerational history When we first arrived at Ashford Castle we were greeted by the boat and transported to the Castle. Later we enjoyed a more extensive cruise of the lake and were provided with varied information and history of the castle, the lake and its surroundings. Patrick followed in the family footsteps having started as a lad and then taking over the business from his father. Well worth the journey. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• 732shawns 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Delicious! This was so much fun. The food you get to sample is all terrific. I tried things I didn't think I would like, and was surprised to find out I enjoyed them. It is also an excellent tour of the city. Even on a rainy day you are in and out of places so you enjoy the tour. Our guide was so great. She gave us amazing recommendations for shopping and dining. She even helped us out with dining recommendations in Killarney. She was so much fun, it was a great time. Don't hesitate! Book this tour. Read more Written October 19, 2023
• C9951LMjoew 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Westport cycle Hire Great friendly service, quality bikes. The greenway cycle is scienic and well maintained, quality surfaces. Overall a good experience Read more Written October 16, 2023
• Discover666323 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tour of Cliffs of Moher Pat was an excellent and entertaining guide over the Cliffs. He grew up there and it was his playground as a child. He now farms there and his farm actually borders the Atlantic. He led us on an incredible hike, sometimes a little slippery and muddy but he made sure we alll stayed focused. I couldn’t imagine any tour bus will ever show you the views we got from this particular hike. It took about 4 hours in total. Well worth it. Read more Written October 4, 2023
• AsItSeemsToMe 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Good Walk with a Good Guide. It was great to walk with Pat. He is very knowledgeable about the scenery and added his local insight to everything we saw. He is very passionate about the history, his community, and the scenery along the cliffs. He provided plenty of time at each stop to take photos and look around. While he says he isn't a photographer, he can certainly point out sights and angles to get some good shots. In the end, Pat was not a tour guide but more like a friend you just met showing around his home turf. A good walk, a good guide, and someone you'd be glad to meet in the local pub for a pint. Read more Written October 2, 2023
• Jet44292905160 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Incomparable experience, must see! Pat and Sophia were amazing tour guides. The hike along the cliffs from Doolin to the visitor center (4.3 miles) was filled with adventure and great local storytelling. We thoroughly enjoyed seeing the area in relative seclusion with our tour companions from South Africa. We took many photos that we would have never had the opportunity to take without Pats guidance. Strongly advise you wear boots, bring a walking stick and sense of adventure. It is great stretch of the legs and no better views on earth. Read more Written September 29, 2023
• Happiness61462763300 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Cancelled without notice We drove 2 hours out of our way and waited and no one showed. The tour was cancelled due to rain and we were not contacted. Read more Written September 25, 2023
• 485aprile 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Kylemore tour! Our driver was great to be with and was flexible with our group. We loved having lunch with her and she provided such great background on the area! Excellent driver and tour! Read more Written September 19, 2023
• Sherpa364913 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic tour of the Connemara region and Kylemore Abbey. Our tour was super from start to finish! Our guide Tony was an excellent driver and provided wonderful commentary and history throughout the day. We had plenty of time at each stop and never felt rushed as you often feel on the big-bus tours. We like to walk a lot and this tour allowed plenty of opportunity for that. We got in 3+ miles, but there was no requirement to walk so this tour would work for people who want less walking too. We had a great lunch at a pub and still lots of time to see Kylemore Abbey with all its sites. Read more Written September 19, 2023
• jeffersond603 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must-do in Doolin! What a great way to see the cliffs as you pass by acres of farmland and old stone walls. It is a fairly strenuous hike that goes up about 800 vertical feet but it is invigorating and all in our group made it up without an issue. There are plenty of opportunities for breaks whenever you need them. This tour gives you a completely different perspective than simply driving to the visitor's center, and the background information provided by our guide, Ollie, was fascinating. The best part of traveling is to immerse yourself in your destination, and this tour does that perfectly. Special shout-out to Ollie for his enthusiasm, friendliness and the way he made us all friends by the end of the tour! Read more Written September 19, 2023
• J C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Drove up a short way from Galway to make this trip. Great experience in a beautiful setting. The dog and handler were amazing. Our daughter got to bottle feed a lamb and pet the sheep. Well worth the drive and at a reasonable price. Read more Written September 2, 2023
• K1656ZSnickr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 10/10 would recommend This hike was the highlight of our trip! I definitely recommend this to those who take the path less followed and enjoy a good challenge! The spectacular views coupled with our amazing guide, Pat, made this a very worthwhile experiment. Read more Written August 14, 2023
• sarahmguenther 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Castles of Connemara-a wonderful time Tony’s trip around Connemara through the castles and villages was breathtaking. We were lucky enough to have a small tour and learned a vast amount from both Tony and the many guides that specialize in the history of their chosen locations. Beautiful views, great pace, and a really insightful time on history hundreds of years old and culture today. Would recommend to all looking for a thorough history, amazing views and an easy adventure. Worth the ticket for an intimate, local touristing. Read more Written August 6, 2023
• mike s 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Simply amazing Pat and Mark were very knowledgeable and friendly and the views are amazing. Hard to describe how beautiful this was. It’s a hike for three hours with a few stops to take in the views. Make sure you have good shoes on. I highly recommend it. Read more Written July 22, 2023

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Half-Day Spike Island Tour from Cork Harbour provided by Ireland Wild Escapes