Spike Island After Dark – Dark History Evening Tours
Step into the shadows of Spike Island for an atmospheric and unsettling experience with our After Dark Evening Tours.
For a limited run this April and May, Ireland’s infamous prison island opens its gates as night falls – an experience usually reserved for the Halloween season. This is your rare chance to explore its haunting history in a whole new light.
Walking through creepy abandoned cells, a Victorian Era punishment block, and dark underground tunnels once used for solitary confinement is a level of immersion that cannot be faked. Be prepared for the low-lighting and sometimes pitch darkness of these centuries old areas of our fortress.
In the 19th century, Spike Island was one of the largest convict prisons in the world, often called “Ireland’s Hell”, with overcrowding and harsh conditions. From this era of solitary confinement to Spike’s use as a modern-day prison up until 2004, you’re not just hearing old folklore from our guides – you’re reliving chilling stories of life behind the walls which span centuries.
On this immersive and atmospheric tour, our guides will also recount the paranormal stories and sightings, passed down by our former island residents and staff.
These exclusive After Dark evening tours take place on April 11th, May 2nd and May 16th. With only three nights available, demand is expected to be high and advance booking is recommended.
Expect dimly lit corridors, dramatic storytelling, and an island that feels entirely different once the sun goes down. This is not your typical history tour – it’s immersive, atmospheric, and just the right side of eerie. Don’t miss this rare springtime chance to experience Spike Island After Dark.
Lace up your running shoes!
Join us on Sunday, 7 December, for our annual Charity Christmas Concert, a heartwarming event organised by our Volunteers and staff.
Bring your little goblins and witches and hop on board the fun ferry, before embarking on a fang-tastic adventure through the mysterious Spike Island, where you will find areas of the ancient fortress and prison transformed into a realm of Halloween spookiness! Along with their families, the little ones can trick or treat their way around the fortress with our brand new Halloween themed quiz trail – keep an eye out for our friendly tour guides who will be handing out sweet treats along the way!
This unique event promises an adventure like no other – where else can you begin your race within the walls of a 200-year-old fortress before making your way around an iconic island surrounded by spectacular views of Cork Harbour.
Tom Casey
PJ Coogan