Aillwee Cave to reveal future expansion

One of North Clare’s most famous tourist attractions looks set to expand, The Clare Champion can reveal.

Plans are afoot at the Aillwee Cave and Burren Birds of Prey Centre to develop over the coming years, with work expected to take place on the Cave’s lighting and audio facilities as well as the construction of a new children’s play facility.
Two open days next month to highlight the tourism landmark’s existing facilities and to outline future plans have been announced this week.
On Saturday, June 12 and Sunday June 13, Aillwee Cave and the Burren Birds of Prey Centre will hold an open day inviting members of the public to come to visit free of charge.
Nicholas Johnson, managing director, said, “So much has changed since Aillwee Cave first opened to the public in 1976. It is now so much more than just a showcave – it’s a full day out.
“On both days there will be lots of fun and games for the whole family to enjoy including face painting, puppet shows, woodland craft demonstrations, train rides, carousel rides and free entry for the tour of Aillwee Cave and to the Burren Birds of Prey Centre. There will be extra flying displays on each of the days, which will provide a unique opportunity to see these magnificent birds in dramatic free flight.”
Attracting around 150,000 visitors a year and employing a staff of more than 50, Aillwee Cave plays a vital role in the economy of North Clare.
Over the past 34 years, the business has developed into one of Ireland’s premier visitor attractions and the 26-acre site offers visitors an opportunity to experience the natural features of the Burren, with the added benefit of exploring the Burren underworld.
The Burren Birds of Prey Centre is the largest project to have been undertaken at Aillwee Cave in the past 10 years. Home to one of the largest collections of eagles, hawks, owls and falcons in the country, the centre has gone from strength to strength since its opening in June, 2008.
The centre houses breeding pairs of hawks and owls and has a huge focus on the education and conservation of these magnificent birds. One of its aims is to facilitate education about the life of raptors in Ireland.
Mr Johnson was keen to point out that over the next few years, the company is planning to further expand, with projects such as a re-lighting of the cave itself with the provision of sound facilities and a new children’s play facility, plans for which will be on display on June 12 and 13.
“As well as enhancing the normal visitor experience, this will generate new business in the provision of events such as ghost tours, musical and dramatic tours and other special events while continuing to maintain our traditional high standard of customer services,” he stated.
“Our goal for the future is to continue to manage our business well, while ensuring that the attraction is responding to the ever-increasing expectation of a more discerning visitor. The aim of the open day is to make it an unforgettable experience for all visitors on each day.
“Over the two days, Aillwee Cave will be launching the friendship card that will give cardholders entry concessions on admissions to the cave tour and the Burren Birds of Prey Centre.”
Cardholders will be able to avail of special offers and events throughout the year. Anyone can register for the friendship card by either coming along over the weekend or contacting Aillwee Cave on 065 7077036.
The open days at the Aillwee Cave and the Burren Birds of Prey Centre will continue from midday until 5pm.
For further information, contact Barbara Faulkner, marketing manager, on 065 7077036 or e-mail barbara@aillweecave.ie.