Overview
Aillwee Burren Experience sits on the limestone plateau of the Burren, just a short drive from the coastal village of Ballyvaughan in north County Clare. The site brings together three distinct attractions: the 45‑minute guided tour of Aillwee Cave, the outdoor Birds of Prey Centre with daily flying displays, and a farm shop where award‑winning Burren Gold cheese and handmade fudge are produced on‑site. With sweeping views over Galway Bay, a self‑guided woodland walk and ample visitor facilities, it is a compact yet richly varied destination.
History
Aillwee Cave was first opened to the public in 1976, making it one of Ireland’s earliest show caves. The cave was discovered in the 1940s by a local farmer while tending his flock, and subsequent excavations revealed the remains of a European brown bear dated to around 10,400 years ago. The farm shop and cheese‑making operation were added later, and in 2008 the Birds of Prey Centre joined the complex, expanding the experience from underground geology to aerial wildlife.
What to See & Do
- Aillwee Cave tour – Led by knowledgeable guides, the 45‑minute walk takes visitors 90 metres below the Burren surface. Highlights include illuminated chambers, an underground waterfall, jagged stalactites and stalagmites, and the ancient bear bones that hint at the area’s prehistoric inhabitants.
- Birds of Prey Centre – Outdoor flight demonstrations showcase eagles, falcons, hawks, owls and vultures. For a more intimate encounter, the private Hawk Walk offers a hands‑on falconry experience with the centre’s expert handlers.
- Farm Shop & Cheese‑making – Watch the traditional production of Burren Gold cheese, sample a range of cheeses and freshly made fudge, and browse locally sourced artisan foods. Takeaway refreshments are available from the on‑site coffee stop.
- Biodiversity Woodland Walk – A self‑guided trail winds through eight acres of native hazel, ash and holly, revealing the unique flora, fauna and geology of the Burren landscape.
- Scenic Views – The terraced site provides panoramic vistas across the limestone pavement of the Burren and out over Galway Bay, perfect for a quick photo stop.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Season | Opening Times |
|---|---|
| All year (general) | 10:00 am – 4:00 pm daily |
| Summer (peak) | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (check online for exact dates) |
Admission & Ticket Prices
| Category | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| Adult | 26.00 |
| Child (4–15) | 16.00 |
| Student | 24.00 |
| Senior (OAP) | 24.00 |
| Family (2 Adults + 1 Child) | 60.00 |
| Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) | 70.00 |
| Family (2 Adults + 3 Children) | 80.00 |
| Family (2 Adults + 4 Children) | 90.00 |
| Children under 4 | Free |
Tickets for the cave tour, Birds of Prey Centre and the hawk walk can be booked in advance via the official website.
Accessibility
The attraction is partially accessible: wheelchair‑friendly routes lead to the main visitor areas, and wheelchair‑accessible toilets are available. Assistance and guide dogs are welcome. The cave itself has narrow, uneven passageways and is not suitable for wheelchairs or baby buggies.
Facilities
- Parking – Free car and coach parking on site.
- Restrooms – Toilets and baby‑changing facilities are provided.
- Wi‑Fi – Free Wi‑Fi throughout the site.
- Picnic – Picnic benches are scattered around the grounds.
- Gift shops – Two shops sell branded merchandise, clothing and soft toys.
- Refreshments – Takeaway coffee, tea and snacks are sold at the farm shop and coffee stop.
Contact & Booking
- Website: aillweeburrenexperience.ie
- Phone: +353 (0) 65 707 7036
- Email: info@aillweeburrenexperience.ie
- Online booking: https://aillweeburrenexperience.ie/book-tickets/
Getting There
Aillwee Burren Experience is located at Ballycahill, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. It is easily reachable by car from the Wild Atlantic Way, with clear signposting from the N85. Public transport options include local bus services to Ballyvaughan, followed by a short taxi ride.
Suggested Visit Length
A typical visit lasts 2–3 hours, allowing time for the cave tour, a bird‑of‑prey display, a stroll through the woodland walk and a relaxed stop at the farm shop.
Aillwee Burren Experience offers a rare blend of subterranean wonder, soaring wildlife and culinary tradition, making it a must‑see stop on any Burren itinerary.