Marble Arch Caves
Explore a UNESCO Global Geopark's stunning subterranean world of rivers, chambers, and ancient rock formations on a guided tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Marble Arch Caves
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a UNESCO Global Geopark's stunning subterranean world of rivers, chambers, and ancient rock formations on a guided tour.
"Truly transports you into a subterranean world!! "
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Secure your spot, especially for the boat tour! Booking online saves money and guarantees entry. :ticket:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Cave floors are wet and uneven. Waterproof walking boots are ideal for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Subterranean River Boat Tour
Inside the caves
Glide through echoing chambers on a boat, a truly unique perspective of this underground world. Dependent on water levels.
Fascinating Rock Formations
Cave passageways
Marvel at ancient stalactites and stalagmites, each growing over millennia. Learn about their formation and the cave's geology.
UNESCO Global Geopark Setting
Cuilcagh Mountain Park
Explore the stunning landscape surrounding the caves, part of the Cuilcagh Geopark, offering scenic views and hiking opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Dress for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Secure your spot, especially for the boat tour! Booking online saves money and guarantees entry. :ticket:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Cave floors are wet and uneven. Waterproof walking boots are ideal for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress in Layers
The cave is a cool 10°C (50°F) year-round. Bring a jacket or sweater for a comfortable experience. :shirt:
💧 Check Boat Tour Status
The boat tour is a highlight but depends on water levels. Call ahead or check online if it's a must-do! :information_desk:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Secure your spot, especially for the boat tour! Booking online saves money and guarantees entry. :ticket:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Cave floors are wet and uneven. Waterproof walking boots are ideal for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress in Layers
The cave is a cool 10°C (50°F) year-round. Bring a jacket or sweater for a comfortable experience. :shirt:
💧 Check Boat Tour Status
The boat tour is a highlight but depends on water levels. Call ahead or check online if it's a must-do! :information_desk:
🚗 Ample Parking Available
There's plenty of parking at the visitor centre, making arrival easy. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marble Arch Caves for their awe-inspiring beauty and the unique experience of exploring a subterranean world. The guided tours, especially those including the boat trip, are highlighted as fascinating and educational. The knowledgeable staff and the well-preserved natural environment contribute to a memorable visit for families and individuals alike.
"I would 10/10 recommend a trip to the Marble Arch Caves!
We took our kids (8&6) and had an absolute blast.
The tour (especially if the boat tour is on) gives you sights like no other, that you definitely don’t get to see on a daily basis.
Truly transports you into a subterranean world!!"
David Shields
"I had the pleasure of visiting the Marble Arch Caves as it was close to 30 years from my last visit, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the staff couldn’t have been more welcoming – friendly, and full of knowledge that really brought the caves’ history to life.
The tour itself was fascinating, with each step taking us deeper into a landscape that felt both ancient and alive. It’s incredible to think of the history steeped within those walls, still continuing to this day. What really made the visit unique, though, was the chance to take a boat trip into the caves, as the water level was unusually low. Gliding through the dark, echoing chambers was both peaceful and awe-inspiring, giving us a perspective of the caves that felt truly special.
Overall, the combination of passionate staff, rich history, and that rare boat journey made the visit stand out. It’s one of those experiences that lingers long after you leave, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for something memorable.
To think that a Stalactites and Stalagmites grows 1cm every 1000 years. Stalactites are icicle-shaped mineral formations that hang from a cave's ceiling, while stalagmites are mound-shaped formations that grow upwards from the cave's floor."
Jonathan Hayes
"A fun and interesting experience. There is a short boat ride when you get into the cave (this is dependent on recent water levels, best to check before arriving if this is operating). The boat ride allowed a unique experience of floating along under rock formations. The guide talked us through different calcium formations and the origins of the show cave. Can't fault the guide, he was charming and answered all questions with ease. The cafe there offers a great variety of food (sandwiches/cakes) and a nice cuppa. Gift shop for the usual goodies which was fairly priced. Ample parking on site. Recommend walking boots due to terrain inside the cave. Quite a few stairs at the end of the cave."
Claire Walker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marble Arch Caves are located in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Many visitors arrive by car, with ample parking available at the visitor centre. For those using public transport, Translink NI operates a daily bus service from Enniskillen Bus Station to the caves during July and August.
The Marble Arch Caves are situated in the picturesque foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, near Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Yes, during the summer months (July to August), Translink NI offers a daily bus service from Enniskillen Bus Station directly to the Marble Arch Caves.
Driving is often the most convenient way to reach the Marble Arch Caves, especially if you plan to explore other attractions in County Fermanagh.
Yes, there are various accommodation options near the Marble Arch Caves, ranging from hotels in Enniskillen to charming guesthouses and self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and booking online in advance is often recommended to secure your spot and potentially get a better price. Check the official Marble Arch Caves website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your Marble Arch Caves tickets in advance, especially during peak season or if you wish to experience the boat tour, as tours can sell out.
The Marble Arch Caves are typically open from March to September, with specific opening hours varying by month. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day, booking in advance is strongly advised to avoid disappointment, as tours can fill up quickly.
Information on discounts for groups, families, or specific times might be available on the official website. Booking online can sometimes offer savings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour takes you through a fascinating underground world of subterranean rivers, passages, and chambers. It includes walking on pathways and, weather permitting, a memorable boat trip.
The boat tour is a highlight but is dependent on water levels within the caves. It's advisable to check in advance if the boat tour is operating on your planned visit date.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip as the cave floor can be wet and uneven. Dress in layers as the temperature inside is a constant 10°C (50°F).
Yes, the Marble Arch Caves are considered a great experience for children of all ages. They often enjoy the boat ride and the unique underground environment.
The guided tour typically lasts around 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of the caves' wonders.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at the Marble Arch Caves visitor centre that offers a selection of food, including sandwiches and cakes, as well as hot drinks.
While there's a cafe on-site, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated picnic areas if available, or to check the visitor centre's policy.
Besides the on-site cafe, you can find various dining options in the nearby town of Enniskillen, offering a range of cuisines from traditional Irish pubs to more contemporary restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Marble Arch Caves, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guides.
The boat ride offers unique angles of the cave formations. The entrance and exit points, with the surrounding natural landscape, also provide great photo opportunities.
The caves are naturally dark, but there is lighting to illuminate the formations for the tour. Using a camera with good low-light capabilities or a tripod might be beneficial for capturing detailed shots.
While general photography is allowed, large professional equipment or tripods might be restricted to ensure the flow of the tour and the safety of other visitors. Always follow guide instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress the children in layers and ensure they have comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip, as the cave environment can be damp and uneven. Booking tickets in advance is a good idea to ensure everyone gets a spot on the tour.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
Combine your cave tour with a hike to experience the diverse natural beauty of the region. The rugged terrain and stunning vistas make this area a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1While photography is generally allowed, be mindful of the low-light conditions and potential restrictions on professional equipment. The surrounding Geopark also offers stunning scenic vistas, perfect for capturing the essence of Northern Ireland's natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Marble Arch Caves
+1Key features within the caves include stalactites, which hang from the ceiling, and stalagmites, which grow upwards from the floor. These formations are created by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water. It's fascinating to learn that stalactites and stalagmites can grow as little as 1 cm every 1,000 years, highlighting the immense timescale involved in their creation.
This unique geological environment has earned the Marble Arch Caves recognition as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark. This designation underscores the site's international importance for its natural heritage and the ongoing efforts to preserve its delicate ecosystem for future generations.
Experiencing the Caves: Tours and Tips
It's important to note that the boat tour's availability is subject to water levels, which can fluctuate based on rainfall. Visitors who specifically wish to experience the boat trip are advised to check conditions beforehand. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing fascinating facts about the caves' formation and history, making the experience both educational and engaging.
Practical advice for visitors includes dressing appropriately for the constant cool temperature of 10°C (50°F) and wearing sturdy, waterproof footwear due to the damp and potentially slippery terrain. Booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment and secure your preferred time slot.
The Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark
+1Exploring the Geopark offers a chance to connect with nature on a grand scale. The iconic Stairway to Heaven hike on Cuilcagh Mountain provides panoramic views of the surrounding Fermanagh lakelands and is a popular activity for those seeking adventure. The area is rich in biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna thriving in its varied habitats.
Visiting the Marble Arch Caves and the wider Geopark provides a holistic experience of Northern Ireland's natural wonders. It's an opportunity to appreciate the powerful forces of nature that have shaped the landscape over millions of years and to enjoy outdoor activities in a truly spectacular setting.
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