Spike Island

4.7 (2,656)

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About

A 104-acre island in Cork Harbour once home to a monastery, a fortress and one of Ireland's most notorious prisons, reached by a 15-minute ferry from Cobh.

Things to Do

Join the guided tour

A guided tour with one of Spike Island's expert storytellers is included in every ticket. Guides bring the island's history as monastery, fortress and prison to life and advise on tour time slots when you arrive.

Explore the museums and exhibitions

The island holds over a dozen museums and exhibitions covering its history. 10 of the 12 exhibition spaces are wheelchair accessible, and most are at ground level.

Walk the island trails

Scenic walking trails loop the 104-acre island, with panoramic views back over Cobh and Cork Harbour. Budget about 3.5 hours for the whole visit including the ferry.

Try the AR app and story trail

An interactive Augmented Reality app and a digital story trail let you explore the island's past at your own pace between guided tour times.

Enjoy the ferry crossing

The crossing from Kennedy Pier in Cobh takes roughly 15 minutes each way and is part of the experience, with a chance of spotting seals, birds and occasional dolphins.

Cafe, gift shop and playground

There is a cafe and gift shop on site as well as toilets, and children are well catered for with an on-site playground.

Plan Your Visit

Hours: February and March: weekends only (daily opening times for the Mid-Term Break). April to October: open 7 days a week. November: tours on weekends only. Pre-booked groups can visit all year round.
Admission: Adults €27.95, children under 12 €14.95, family €74.95
Parking: Free parking at the Five Foot Way Car Park near the Cobh Heritage Centre, about 1 km (10-minute walk) from the ferry departure point. Paid parking is available at the Cobh Cathedral car park, a five-minute walk from the kiosk. Town-centre on-street parking is limited to 3 hours and unsuitable for Spike Island visitors.
Food: On-site cafe offering freshly baked goods, wraps and sandwiches as well as homemade soup, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. There is also a gift shop.

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