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Fortress · Cobh, Cork
Spike Island
Island in Cork harbour with a 19th‑century star‑shaped fortress that served as barracks and prison for nearly two centuries, reached by boat from the Cobh quay.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Spike Island
Spike Island is an island of about 41 hectares in the middle of Cork harbour, opposite Cobh. There was a monastery there in the 7th century, but what is seen today is Fort Mitchel, a star‑shaped fortress built from 1804 to defend the harbour, with six bastions, a dry moat and grass‑covered ramparts.
During the Great Famine in the mid‑19th century, the fortress became a prison for convicts sent to Australia and at one point held over 2,000 prisoners, many sentenced for petty crimes related to the famine. Later it served as a British army barracks, a prison for Irish fighters during the War of Independence and, after 1938, as a base for the Irish army and a prison until 2004.
The visit begins with a roughly 15‑minute boat from Kennedy Pier in Cobh. On the island there is a guided tour and exhibition rooms in the former accommodation blocks, the cells and the punishment block, telling the stories of prisoners and soldiers. The walls and bastions offer views over the harbour, Cobh and the Cathedral of St Colman.
A trail circles the island along the ramparts and coastline. Boat and tour are sold together, with fixed departure times and limited places, and operate according to the season and sea conditions.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
3 to 4 hours, including the return boat, guided tour and exhibitions.
Best time
From May to September, when there are more boat departures. On clear days the view of the harbour is better. Buy in advance in summer; schedules depend on sea conditions.
How to get there
The boat departs from cais Kennedy, on Cobh's waterfront, a 5-minute walk from the train station, and takes about 15 minutes to the island.
Tip
Catch the first boat of the morning and leave the afternoon for Cobh's waterfront and the Titanic Experience. Bring a jacket and comfortable shoes: the island is exposed to the wind and the visit involves a lot of walking.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Spike Island
How to get to Spike Island?
By boat, from cais Kennedy in Cobh, in about 15 minutes. The boat trip and the visit are sold together, with a scheduled time.
What can you see on the island?
The 19th-century star-shaped fortress, the cells of the former prison, the accommodation, exhibitions and the walls with views over the harbour.
Is the island open year-round?
Boat services and visits operate according to the season and sea conditions, with more departures from May to September. Check before you go.