Marble Arch Caves
Ulster
The Marble Arch Caves are a remarkable series of natural limestone caves located near Florencecourt in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Named after a nearby natural limestone arch, the caves are formed by three rivers draining the northern slopes of Cuilcagh mountain, converging underground to create the Cladagh River. Spanning 11.5 kilometres, they represent the longest known cave system in Northern Ireland and one of the finest karst landscapes in the British Isles. Visitors can experience guided tours that navigate through awe-inspiring passages illuminated to highlight delicate cave formations. The caves feature a subterranean river and extensive chambers, including the Grand Gallery and Pool Chamber, accessible via constructed walkways and boat trips. The surrounding landscape complements the caves with ancient woodlands, waterfalls, and gorges, all within the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark. This natural wonder offers both geological significance and engaging visitor experiences, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Tip: To avoid disappointment, book guided cave tours in advance, especially during peak seasons. The visitor centre operates from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Consider purchasing combo attraction passes for additional experiences in the region. Spring and summer months offer the best weather for exploring both the caves and surrounding landscapes.
Interesting facts
- •The caves are the longest known cave system in Northern Ireland, stretching 11.5 kilometres.
- •The nearby Marble Arch is a natural limestone arch under which the Cladagh River flows.
- •The caves are part of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting their geological importance.
- •Early exploration in 1895 used a canvas boat and magnesium flares to navigate the underground river.
- •Dye tracing experiments in 1908 confirmed hydrological connections between multiple cave entrances and the resurgence point.
History
The Marble Arch Caves and the adjacent natural limestone arch were known and admired as tourist attractions since the 18th century.
Early descriptions by Reverend William Henry in the 1730s noted the distinctive features and correctly identified the rivers feeding the system.
In 1895, explorers Édouard-Alfred Martel and Lyster Jameson conducted the first underwater explorations using boats and flares, mapping the initial passages.
Further significant exploration was carried out by the Yorkshire Ramblers' Club in the early 20th century, who discovered new chambers and established hydrological connections through dye tracing experiments.
Exploration continued into the 1930s, expanding knowledge of the cave network and its underground river system.
Place Guide
Grand Gallery and Pool ChamberLate 19th century (explored 1895)
These are major underground chambers within the cave system, featuring large river passages and impressive rock formations. The Pool Chamber is accessible by a walking section of the show cave tour, offering visitors close views of the subterranean river.
Great Boulder Chamber1908
Discovered in 1908 by the Yorkshire Ramblers' Club, this chamber provides an alternative entrance to the Pool Chamber, bypassing deep water sections. It is notable for its large size and geological features.
Visitor Centre and Surrounding Landscape
The visitor centre offers guided walks, family activities, and events. The surrounding landscape includes ancient woodlands, waterfalls, and gorges, providing a rich natural environment to explore beyond the caves themselves.
Contact
Phone: 028 6632 1815
