Restored tunnels in Fort Camden to open to the public

Tunnels below a restored coastal military fort are set to open to the public for the first time this summer with a host of new attractions expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors.

Fort Camden in Crosshaven, Co Cork, is poised to reopen for tours next weekend for the third year running. And for the first time, visitors will be able to see its restored magazine and the granite spiral staircase.

“The second tunnel will be open as well,” Rescue Camden secretary Marion O’Riordan said. “And the new tea rooms are where the old NCO’s mess used to be. It will be all home-baked goods on sale and it has the most spectacular view of Cork Harbour.”

Mrs O’Riordan’s knowledge of the fort comes from more than just being involved with the Rescue Camden volunteer committee. Marion and her sister, Eileen Murphy, grew up in the fort with their parents, three older brothers and another family.

“Our father John O’Brien was a caretaker in Fort Camden after the army left. Marion was actually born in the fort,” Mrs Murphy said. “We lived in the two married quarters for about 13 years. It was huge. It was 45 acres of playground.”

The fort lay idle for a number of years until Cork County Council handed it over to the people of Crosshaven.

Rescue Camden was then set up with a committee of eight and an army of volunteers who are restoring the heritage site to its former glory.

The fort will be open Saturdays and Sundays from June 30 to Sept 16.

* Details on Fort Camden Official Info page on Facebook.