Author: Arek

Entwined History
Revealing Spike Island’s Forts

Post author By Arek
Post date May 23, 2024

To mark the 220th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone for Fort Westmoreland, Spike Island is hosting an exhibition entitled ‘Entwined History: Revealing Spike Island’s Forts’.

The new exhibition features the architectural plans from The National Archives that depict the construction and fortification of the fortress. Fort Westmoreland (now known as Fort Mitchel) stands as the third and final fortification constructed on the island.

The plans on display show the path from concept to reality as architects, engineers, craftsmen and masons worked together to create a fortress ready to withstand any attack.

Panels explaining the historical events that took place between 1776-1815 and Spike Island’s startegic importance during this period are also part of this exhibition.

We feature General Charles Vallancey, a man behind the design of Fort Westmoreland I. The first edition of his book, ‘A Vindication of the Ancient History of Ireland’ published in 1786 is on display along with other artefacts related to the early stages of the fort and the Royal Artillery.

It’s worth noting that the only known photograph depicting convicts labouring during the constuction of the bastions at Spike Island, can be seen for the first time.

Exhibition date: June—September 2024
Location: Mitchel Hall, Spike Island

Event Literary Festival

Spike Island Literary Festival 2024 programme

Post author By Arek
Post date May 22, 2024

23 AUGUST | FRIDAY EVENING

Law & Disorder – Imran Mahmood in conversation with Neil Lancaster

Price per ticket: €
Boat in: 5pm – Return: 8pm

The 2024 Spike Island Literary Festival will be officially launched by much-loved Cork author Cónal Creedon.
The festival commences with Law and Disorder, an engaging conversation between acclaimed authors Imran Mahmood and Neil Lancaster. Delve into the intricacies of crime writing with these two masters of the genre as they discuss their inspirations and how their backgrounds in law and justice impact their storytelling. This event promises to offer unique insights into the world of crime fiction and the minds behind some of today’s most gripping narratives. Don’t miss the chance to witness a captivating conversation between two leading voices in contemporary literature.

24 AUGUST | SATURDAY

Femme Fatale – Dr Marie Cassidy, Jo Spain & Arlene Hunt moderated by Michelle Dunne

Price per ticket: €
Boat in: 4pm – Return: 8pm

Join us for Femme Fatale, an intriguing panel event at the Spike Island Literary Festival featuring Dr Marie Cassidy, former State Pathologist and author, Jo Spain, renowned author and screenwriter, and acclaimed Irish crime novelist, Arlene Hunt. Moderated by author Michelle Dunne, this event will delve into the dark and fascinating world of crime writing as these leading female voices explore the art of suspense, forensic detail and creating compelling narratives.
Don’t miss the chance to engage with these distinguished authors and uncover the mysteries behind their thrilling novels.

Meet the Agent

Looking for insider tips on getting your book published? In a rare opportunity, budding writers can meet with Nicky Lovick – Literary Agent with WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary Group – to receive feedback and gain tips on how to make their work stand out from the crowd. You will be required to submit a synopsis and the first three chapters of your work following your booking. In return you will get personalised feedback on the day as well as some written notes.

25 AUGUST | SUNDAY

Silent Witness – Sinéad Crowley, Andrea Carter & Gill Perdue moderated by Amy Jordan

Price per ticket: €
Boat in: 12pm – Return: 3pm

Silent Witness, a compelling panel event, will see acclaimed authors Sinéad Crowley, Andrea Carter and Gill Perdue discuss the intricacies of their craft, exploring themes of suspense, crime and the human psyche. Moderated by Amy Jordan, this event promises to offer unique perspectives and fascinating discussions from some of the genre’s most talented writers. Delve into the minds of these brilliant writers as they explore the nuances of crafting suspense and the intricacies of their mysterious characters.

The Ten-Minute Hook – Michelle Teehan, Alice Bell & Tadhg Coakley moderated by Catherine Kirwan

Prior to the main panel event, Catherine Kirwan will be joined by authors Michelle Teehan, Alice Bell and Tadhg Coakley for The Ten Minute Hook. The first ten pages of a novel are the most important of the story and here, each author will discuss the art of intrigue and how they capture the reader’s attention in those all important ten minutes.

Event Literary Festival

Spike island Literary Festival 2024 Meet the Agent

Post author By Arek
Post date May 22, 2024

24 AUGUST | SATURDAY

Meet the Agent

Price per ticket: €50
Boat in: 2 pm – Return: 5:30 pm

Looking for insider tips on getting your book published? In a rare opportunity, budding writers can meet with Nicky Lovick – Literary Agent with WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary Group – to receive feedback and gain tips on how to make their work stand out from the crowd. You will be required to submit a synopsis and the first three chapters of your work following your booking. In return, you will get personalised feedback on the day as well as some written notes.

Nicky Lovick

Nicky Lovick is a literary agent at WGM Atlantic Talent & Literary agency in London. She’s worked an as editor in-house for big and small publishers for almost a decade and is currently working for Penguin, Random House, Transworld, BBC Books, Orion, John Blake, Blink, Bonnier, Quercus, Profile and Atlantic among others.

Event Literary Festival

Spike Island Literary Festival 2024 Friday

Post author By Arek
Post date May 22, 2024

23 AUGUST | FRIDAY EVENING

Law & Disorder – Imran Mahmood in conversation with Neil Lancaster

Price per ticket: €26.95
Boat in: 5pm – Return: 8pm

Cónal Creedon

Cónal Creedon is an award winning novelist, playwright and documentary filmmaker. Cónal’s recently published book, Art Imitating Life Imitating Death, was presented at the centre of Irish Studies at Zurich University, James Joyce Federation in 2020. It was subsequently published by Florence University Press and has since picked up Gold at the IP Book Awards in the European Non-Fiction Category and Silver at the IP Book Awards in the Global reference Non-Fiction Category.

Neil Lancaster

Neil Lancaster is the No. 1 digital bestselling author of both the Tom Novak and Max Craigie series. His first Craigie novel, Dead Man’s Grave, was longlisted for the 2021 McIlvanney Prize for Best Scottish Crime Book of the Year. The second Craigie novel, The Blood Tide, topped several ebook and audio charts. It was also longlisted for the 2022 McIlvanney Prize and shortlisted for Best New Series at the Dead Good Reader Awards. Neil’s authentic crime writing style stems from his police background. He served as a military policeman and worked for the Metropolitan Police as a detective, investigating serious crimes in the capital and beyond. As a covert policing specialist, he used all manner of techniques to investigate and disrupt major crime and criminals. He now lives in the Scottish Highlands, writes crime and thriller novels and works as a broadcaster and commentator on true crime documentaries. He is an expert commentator on a number of true crime TV series.

Imran Mahmood

Imran Mahmood is a practising criminal barrister in England and Wales. His debut novel You Don’t Know Me was chosen by Simon Mayo as a BBC Radio 2 Book Club Choice for 2017 and longlisted for the Theakston Crime Novel of the Year, the CWA Gold Dagger Award, and the Glass Bell Award and was made into a hugely successful BBC1 adaptation in association with Netflix, reaching no.3 in the World and in the UK received a BAFTA nomination for best actor. His second novel I Know What I Saw was chosen as a Sunday Times crime novel of the month and reached no. 2 on the Audible charts. It was also long-listed for both the CWA Gold Dagger Award and Theakstons Crime Novel of the year. His third novel ALL I SAID WAS TRUE was also long-listed for the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2023 and his fourth novel Finding Sophie was released in March 2024. Imran was born and raised in Liverpool but now lives in London with his wife and 2 daughters.

Event Literary Festival

Spike island Literary Festival 2024 Saturday

Post author By Arek
Post date May 22, 2024

24 AUGUST | SATURDAY

Femme Fatale – Dr Marie Cassidy, Jo Spain & Arlene Hunt moderated by Michelle Dunne

Price per ticket: €26.95
Boat in: 4 pm – Return: 7 pm

Dr Marie Cassidy

During her 15-year career as Ireland’s State Pathologist, Marie Cassidy became known to the Irish public as a trusted figure whose expertise helped to solve murders and clarify unexplained deaths. In over thirty years of practice, she performed thousands of postmortems and dealt with hundreds of murders. She has witnessed the burgeoning role of forensic science and the impact that has had on death investigation and the expectations of the general public, while embracing new technology and welcoming the input of experts in the other sciences. She retired at the end of 2018 to spend more time on the other passions in her life, her family and writing. Marie’s number one bestselling memoir Beyond the Tape was published in 2020. Body of Truth is her first novel.

Michelle Dunne

Michelle Dunne is a crime and thriller writer from Cork whose new psychological thriller, The Hotel Maid will be published in August 24. Her best-selling psychological thriller, The Good Girl published to rave reviews in March 24 and is described as “an outstanding serial killer thriller.” Michelle also wrote While Nobody is Watching and The Invisible, a series of thrillers following former soldier and UN Peacekeeper Lindsey Ryan as she tries to adapt to her new life in the clutches of PTSD. The series is currently in development for television and is inspired by Michelle’s own experiences as an infantry soldier and United Nations Peacekeeper. Michelle is organiser/programmer of the Spike Island Literary Festival – a crime-themed festival set in Ireland’s very own Alcatraz!

Arlene Hunt

Arlene Hunt is an Irish author, film and book reviewer . She has written fifteen novels, the latest of which, While She Sleeps, was published by Hachette in August 2023 and she is currently working on new crime fiction book. A long distance runner, when not writing Arlene can usually be found half way up a mountain with two German Shepherds for company.

Jo Spain

Jo Spain is the author of thirteen top-ten Irish and international best-sellers, including the Tom Reynolds detective series. A full-time screenwriter, Jo co-writes and showruns Harry Wild (starring Jane Seymour) with David Logan. She has also written for Sanditon, the ITV/PBS Jane Austen drama and her co-written show The Boy Who Never Was (Subotica/RTÉ/France TV) airs on RTÉ autumn 2024. Jo’s new series Mix Tape (Subotica/Aquarias/Binge) films summer 2024. Jo and her co-writer David Logan are also working on the adaptation of several of her thriller books with production companies including Archery and Yellow Films.

5K RUN Event

Spike Island 5km Race

Post author By Arek
Post date March 20, 2024

Official results. Click here to open in new window.

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. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a leisurely walker, all are welcome to participate – runners can undertake the 5km route while there is a special 3km course tailored for walkers. 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!

Exhibition

Programme for 2024

Post author By Arek
Post date March 12, 2024

Tour

Perfect Family Adventure

Post author By Arek
Post date February 13, 2024

Lorna and Wayne Coogan with their children Noah (aged 6) and Grayson (aged 3) at Spike Island, Co. Cork. Photo Joleen Cronin

Spike Island – the perfect family adventure this Mid-Term Break.

If you’re on the lookout for an exciting and memorable experience to enjoy together as a family this Mid-Term Break, look no further! At Spike Island, one of the country’s leading visitor attractions, we are open all this week for an island adventure the whole family will enjoy.

Prepare to step back in time at Ireland’s infamous prison island as you explore the fascinating history of Spike Island. From its origins as a monastic settlement to its role as a fortress and later a prison, the island holds centuries of stories waiting to be uncovered.

For families seeking a unique day out, Spike Island offers a range of activities to suit all ages. Sail across one of the world’s largest natural harbours where you might spot all kinds of maritime wildlife such as seals, seabirds and the occasional dolphins, before embarking on a guided tour with one of our expert guides.

At Spike Island, family fun is guaranteed with activities such as our Kid’s History Quiz Trail and Fairy Fortress Trail as well as our many interactive exhibitions and museums. There is also a cafe and gift shop on site as well as a children’s playground. It’s the perfect way to keep the kids entertained this half-term.

Beyond its historical significance, Spike Island is a haven of natural beauty. Be sure to embark on one of our scenic walking trails and take in the breathtaking views of Cork Harbour.

Sailings depart from Cobh – just a short journey from Cork City – daily this February Mid Term Break, be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a day of family fun, Spike Island promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Tour

Top Visitor Attractions in Ireland

Post author By Arek
Post date February 13, 2024

Spike Island Named One of the Top Visitor Attractions in Ireland

At Spike Island, we are thrilled to have been voted one of the Top 10 visitor attractions in the recent Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards. This recognition is a testament to the incredible experiences and memories we’ve shared with visitors from near and far, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the support of our loyal guests.

Spike Island placed among some of the country’s best known visitor attractions such as Guinness Storehouse and The Cliffs of Moher, in a poll of Irish and international readers of The Irish Independent and adjudication by an expert panel including Pól Ó Conghaile (Travel Editor, The Irish Independent), John and Francis Brennan (hoteliers), Roz Purcell (author & adventurer), Niall Tracey (Director of Demand Development, Fáilte Ireland), Rachel Duggan (Editor of the Irish Independent’s Weekend Magazine) and Katy McGuinness (food writer & restaurant critic).

Nestled in the heart of Cork Harbour, Spike Island is best known as Ireland’s infamous prison island and holds a rich and varied history that spans centuries. From guided tours to immersive exhibitions that bring its storied past to life, there’s something for everyone at Spike Island. Visitors can explore the haunting corridors of the 18-century fortress, delve into the fascinating history of the island’s Victorian-era prison, or take in the breathtaking views of Cork Harbour from the island’s viewing points.

One of the highlights of a visit to Spike Island is the opportunity to hear the stories of those who lived and worked here throughout its history. Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing the island’s history, from the monks who once sought solace in its tranquil surroundings to the prisoners who endured hardship within its walls.

The Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards also revealed that Cork was voted as the second-best holiday county. Check out purecork.ie where you’ll find plenty of holiday inspiration for a trip to the Rebel County in 2024.

We would like to extend our thanks to our visitors and everyone who voted for us, to Pól Ó Conghaile and the judging panel, and to our dedicated team who ensure a visit to Spike Island is a memorable one.

It is a privilege to be counted among Ireland’s top visitor attractions, come and see for yourself why we’ve been voted one of the top 10 in Ireland – we can’t wait to welcome you!

After Dark Event

Spike Island After Dark Tours return for 2024

Post author By Arek
Post date February 1, 2024

Unveil the Dark Secrets of Spike Island on one of our After Dark Tours!

Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure and explore the haunting history of Ireland’s infamous prison island this February.
Due to popular demand, our After Dark Tours return for two nights only on February 10th & 24th.
Walk through the chilling corridors of an abandoned prison, sit in a solitary cell and experience a place of punishment once called ‘Ireland’s Hell’.

Guided by our expert storytellers, dive into the dark history of what was once Ireland’s most notorious prison with spine-chilling tales of the murderers and deviants who once roamed its halls!
Not for the faint-hearted, our After Dark tours take you to areas of the island usually off limits to the public where our tour guides will share the harrowing history and spine-chilling stories of Ireland’s most notorious murders and deviants.
Explore Spike Island in a whole new light – or should we say darkness! Candlelit corridors, eerie tunnels, and abandoned prison cells await you on this access all areas tour.

Will you escape from Spike Island? There’s only one way to find out! Don’t miss this limited opportunity to experience Spike Island like never before, book your tickets now – if you dare!