Author: Arek

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Event Literary Festival

Spike Island Literary Festival 2025

Now in its fourth year, the Spike Island Literary Festival returns this September with a gripping programme dedicated to the art of crime writing. Set against the unique backdrop of Spike Island’s infamous former prison, this one-of-a-kind festival brings together acclaimed authors and literary experts for a series of thrilling conversations, live readings and thought-provoking panels.

With a dark history of four prisons over 400 years, Spike Island is the perfect setting for literary enthusiasts from book lovers to budding writers. Engage with your favourite authors and discover what inspires them through author-led panel discussions, experience readings from world-class writers as they recite their most famous works in unique locations or take the first steps to getting your own work published by meeting with a renowned literary agent.

Step inside the walls that once held some of Ireland’s most notorious criminals and immerse yourself in stories that intrigue, unnerve and captivate. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, gritty detective fiction, or chilling true crime, Spike Island is the ultimate setting for your next plot twist.

This year’s programme features a stellar line-up of renowned authors such as Stuart Neville, Andrea Mara, Michelle McDonagh, Sam Blake, Tom Casey, C.L Taylor and more.

Join us at the Spike Island Literary Festival this September — where mystery, suspense, and storytelling collide.

 

Categories
Easter Event

Easter Trail 2025

Hop over to Spike Island for an eggs-tra special Easter Adventure 2025

Follow the clues along the Easter Trail to claim your delicious treat!

Looking for an egg-citing Easter adventure the whole family will enjoy? Sail from Cobh to Ireland’s infamous prison island – where history and adventure meet sweet surprises this Easter break!

With family fun and a few cheeky chocolate treats along the way, the Spike Island Experience is the perfect day out for the entire family this Easter.

Young adventurers can take part in our Easter Egg Hunt, as they follow a fun-filled trail while exploring hidden corners of the fortress before claiming their chocolate reward at the end!

While the kids enjoy the Easter magic, grown-ups can soak up panoramic views of Cork Harbour, explore the island’s rich history – from monastery to fortress to prison – and enjoy guided tours that bring its past to life.

Don’t miss out on an egg-citing visit to Spike Island this Easter. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, Spike Island has something magical in store this April, 2025.

Hop aboard and let the hunt begin!

 

Categories
Event Fireworks

2025 Spike Island Fireworks Spectacular

Spike Island Fireworks Spectacular 2025

The hugely popular Spike Island Fireworks Spectacular is set to return with a bang on Sunday, 1st June, lighting up the sky over Cork Harbour for an unforgettable night of celebration. Traditionally held later in the summer, this year’s event moves to an earlier date, allowing us to not only commemorate our Independence Day – the anniversary of the historic handover of Spike Island from Britain to Ireland – but also to officially kick off the 2025 summer season.

Visitors will enjoy an evening of captivating entertainment, live music, and family-friendly activities,
all leading up to the spectacular fireworks display that has become a highlight of the Cork events calendar.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or experiencing the magic of Spike Island for the first time, this is an event not to be missed.

Join us for an explosive start to summer 2025 – secure your tickets now!

To facilitate the smooth flow of the event, boats will begin to depart from Cobh at 4:40 pm.
Early arrivals will have ample time to enjoy all that the island has to offer and will also be among the first to depart the island after the event concludes.
The fireworks display will take place at 10:45 pm approx and return boats will commence thereafter.

Tickets are on sale now and advance booking is essential for this event.

Categories
5K RUN Event

Spike Island 5km Race

Official Results:

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Video:

Lace up your running shoes and prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Spike Island 5km Race! Returning this April, the 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.

The race kicks off at approximately 5:25 p.m., promising an adrenaline-fueled dash through the island’s scenic routes. Our dedicated marshals will be on hand to guide you and ensure you stay on track throughout.
After crossing the finish line, each participant will receive a special Spike Island medal and there will be a special medal ceremony to celebrate your triumphs, with awards for the fastest male and female runners.

So what are you waiting for? Embrace the challenge and create lasting memories at Spike Island. Boats depart from Cobh at 4pm and 4:45pm and tickets for this unique race event are on sale now.

We’ll see you at the starting line!

 

Categories
test

Spike Island Autograph Books

During the Irish War of Independence, the British Army opened a ‘Military Prison in the Field’ on Spike Island on the 19th of February 1921. Republicans were held here as prisoners and internees.
Prisoners were those that were arrested or captured by the Royal Irish Constabulary or the British Army and subsequently charged, tried, convicted and sentenced to a term of imprisonment for a particular offence. On Spike Island, they were held in the prison compound.
Internees were those arrested by the same Crown Forces and imprisoned without trial for their suspected involvement in republican activities. On Spike Island, they were held in the internment compound.
Prisoners that were nearing their release date could if they were still considered a threat be kept in custody as internees.

Number Owner Internee/Prisoner Entries
AB 1 Florence   O’Leary i 108
AB 2 Patrick Tobin i 82
AB 3 Daniel Dennehy i 45
AB 4 Thomas Conway p 43
AB 5 Michael O’Sullivan i 92
AB 6 Patrick O’Connor i 94
AB 7 Patrick O’Halloran p 59
AB 8 Denis Murphy p 89
AB 9 John Brett i 35
AB 10 Patrick Barry i 89
AB 11 William Dower p 33
AB 12 James Butler i 48
AB 13 Patrick O’Donoghue i 74
AB 14 John Dowling i 56
AB 15 Maurice Walsh i 89
AB 16 Denis McDonald i 75
AB 17 Sean Sinnott i 62
AB 18 Tim Healy i 96
AB 19 Mick Murphy p 76
AB 20 Michael Bowles p 63
AB 21 Geoffrey Morrissey i 94
AB 22 John Cahill i 100
AB 23 Henry O’Mahony i 90
AB 24 James Fraher p 11
AB 25 Tom Ryan i 110
AB 26 Michael Connolly i 30
Categories
History

6 inch guns

The 6 inch guns entered British service at the start of the 20th Century and saw use in naval, coastal and land artillery roles.  Three of these guns were located on Spike Island from around 1902. Two were mounted operationally in open emplacements on Number 3 Bastion and the third for training purposes in a covered building on the north of the island known as the Drill shed. In 1938 the Irish Army’s Coastal Defence Artillery took over Spike Island’s 6” guns.

In 1943 the Irish Army undertook the enormous task of relocating the guns to their present underground emplacements, deep within the forts walls at the end of long tunnels in Bastions 2 and 4 of the fortress.  Spike Island’s 6” guns were manned continuously throughout the ‘Emergency’ period, more commonly known internationally as World War 2.  After the war the role of Coastal Defence Artillery declined and the gunners were re-rolled to air defence artillery.

Spike Island 6 inch Gun

Spike Island’s 6 inch gun on Bastion 2 saw a new lease of life with the arrival of the Prison Service in 1985, with staff and inmates working on its restoration.  This task was completed by a team of ex-island residents and volunteers in the years after the heritage centre opened and they continue to maintain the weapons today.

Today both guns 1 and 2 are open to the public and are kept in a high state of restoration, and continue to impress the visiting public with their striking views out over Cork harbour. The 6 inch guns are the largest surviving examples of breech loading guns in Ireland.

Categories
Shop

Give the gift of an unforgettable experience with a Spike Island Voucher.

 

Looking for the perfect present this festive season? Give the gift of an unforgettable experience this Christmas with a Spike Island Voucher.

Treat someone special in your life to a day of adventure, history and memories to last a lifetime on Ireland’s prison island nestled in the stunning Cork Harbour.

Whether they’re a history buff, a military enthusiast or simply a fan of the great outdoors, they’ll love to find the gift of an island adventure under the tree this Christmas!

 

 

Why choose a Spike Island Gift Voucher?

● A Day of Discovery: Embark on a ferry journey across Cork Harbour before exploring the rich history of Spike Island, from its monastic beginnings to its time as a fortress and prison.

● Guided Tours: Our knowledgeable guides will take your loved ones on an immersive journey, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the island’s past.

● Breathtaking Views: Marvel at the breathtaking views of Cork Harbor from the island. It’s a picture-perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories.

● Family-Friendly Fun: Spike Island is perfect for families! Children and adults alike can engage in interactive exhibits, enjoy the great outdoors, making it a special gift for the entire family.

 

 

Please note: Gift vouchers can be purchased in values from €25 up to €200.

Our gift vouchers can be used to purchase tickets for a visit to Spike Island (including ferry journey, guided tour and access to the island) and can also be redeemed in our on-site gift shop.

Gift vouchers can be used to purchase tickets for both regular day tours to Spike Island and our After Dark Tours.

 

Make this Christmas one to remember with the gift of adventure on Spike Island and surprise your friends and family with a memorable experience they can look forward to in 2025 and beyond.

Categories
Event

Christmas Concert 2024

Get into the festive spirit at Spike Island this Christmas.
Join us on Sunday 8 December for our annual Charity Christmas Concert, a heartwarming event organised by our Volunteers and staff.
As we celebrate the season of giving, all proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to The Park Road Day Care Centre in Cobh.

Expect a memorable afternoon of festive music from Sonatinas Choir under the direction of conductor Rachel O’Brien in the charming surrounds of our Mitchel Hall building. Tickets are €20 and include not only entry to the festive concert but also your ferry journey and time to self explore our island and fortress.

Special thanks to our ferry provider Doyle Shipping Group who have kindly sponsored the boat on the day, to our cafe provider, Centra Cobh who provide food and refreshments free of charge, and to Sonatinas Choir who give up their time voluntarily as do our tour guides.

Embrace the holiday spirit with us at Spike Island this Christmas. Secure your tickets now and be part of a day filled with music, history, and the joy of giving. 

Categories
After Dark Event

After Dark presents Dean Jacob

Spike Island After Dark presents Sinister by Dean Jacob
Get ready for a spine-chilling night like no other as Spike Island After Dark presents Sinister by Dean Jacob.

 

This special Halloween event features the extraordinary mentalist and escape artist Dean Jacob, who will take you on a journey into the unknown. Set against the eerie backdrop of Spike Island, prepare to be captivated by mind-bending illusions, psychological twists, and thrilling escapes that will leave you questioning what’s real and what’s not.

Not only will you get to explore the haunting corridors of an abandoned prison and enter underground tunnels once used for solitary confinement, you’ll also meet a renowned mentalist and escape artist!

As darkness falls over the island, Dean will take you on a journey into the unknown, where your mind will be twisted and your senses deceived. With mind-bending illusions, heart-stopping escapes, and eerie encounters, this is not your average Halloween event—it’s a night of pure, unbridled fear. Will you dare to face the sinister side of Spike Island? Could you sit in a room with some of the world’s most haunted objects and hold onto the only thing human beings ever really considered private – your own thoughts? Only the brave will survive.

Whether you’re a fan of the paranormal or just looking for a night of heart-pounding entertainment, this is one Halloween experience you won’t want to miss. Join us if you dare and prepare for the ultimate Halloween thrill!

Tickets €35* on sale now!

Categories
After Dark Event

After Dark

Spike Island After Dark LogoLooking for the ultimate Halloween thrill?
Join us for an evening of mystery on one of our infamous After Dark Tours at Spike Island this Halloween season.

Not for the faint-hearted, our After Dark Tours bring you to areas of the island, usually off limits to the public, where spine-chilling stories of some of Ireland’s most notorious murders and deviants are brought to life.

Prepare to be led through eerie tunnels and abandoned prison cells under the cover of darkness. Explore  the haunting corridors of an abandoned prison, find yourself in the heart of solitary confinement, and immerse yourself in a place once infamously known as ‘Ireland’s Hell’ on this unique tour

This Halloween, embrace the spookiest season of all by diving into Spike Island’s dark history. Book your tickets now if you dare!

More details to follow!

Suitable for age 18+ only