Spike Island is a place steeped in history and mystery and visitors have the unique chance to experience the island like never before on the first ever ‘Spike Island After Dark’ tours. Strictly limited to 180 tickets spread over 3 nights, online booking only, early booking advisable.
This amazing 104 acre island has accommodated a monastery, fortress and prison in the last 1300 years and is dominated by the 24 acre star shaped Fortress Spike. Our torch lit guided tours give visitors a chance to walk abandoned prisons, sit in solitary cells and follow in the footsteps of famous Irish and international prisoners.
Boats depart from Kennedy pier, Cobh and after the 20 minute ferry ride our guides will relay the rich history of the town and share the tales of shipwrecks and intrigue that litter Cork harbour. Once on the island we walk in Twilight through time to abandoned villages and historical sites, walking in the footsteps of saints and sinners. Then it is on to the Fortress that during the 1850s was the largest prison in the entire world!
Inside the fort we relay the stories of a place so feared a Victorian reporter once exclaimed "Is Spike Island even in a Christian land"? Hear the tales of the mass graves that cover the island, lost souls without a name on a headstone. We visit buildings like the 1850s Punishment block with its solitary cells which were built with the sole purpose of punishing Ireland's penal classes. Then it is on to the former children's prison which holds many memories from its former use and your tour also includes visits to areas that are off limits to regular day tours.
Join the best storytellers in Ireland for an evening of incredible tales about a unique place in an ancient land.
Many have been, many remain, but will you escape from Fortress Spike?

FAQs
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?
The suggested age limit is 15 and above due to the sometimes gruesome history that is relayed. Responsibility for determining the suitability for any person under 15 rests with the accompaning adult. There are no deliberate scare tactics like 'the nightmare realm', but the tours content and sometimes dark claustrophic cells may be difficult for some people.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?
Cobh town centre parking free from 6pm onwards, €1 per hour beforehand. Parking is also available at Cobh cathederal free of charge. The ferry deaprts from the end of Kennedy pier, just past Titanic Cobh.

What can/can't I bring to the event?
Please wear warm clothes and be dressed for rainy weather, as part of the tour takes place outside. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to bring your own torch as some will be provided but we cannot garantee one for all members of your party. No wide beam lights, straight beam only.

Where can I contact the organiser with any questions?
manager@spikeislandcork.ie

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?
Yes, you may pass on your ticket if you cannot attend.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
Please print your ticket and bring to the ferry embarkation point.

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?
Yes.

What time does the event start?
Boat departs at 6pm sharp, please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to departure as the ferry will not wait for late arrivals or return until after the tour. Tour ends at approx 8.10pm with ferry from Spike back to Kennedy pier, Cobh by 8.30pm approx.