Underground Tour

Okay, grab your hard hat… and let’s go underground

Quick Details

Discover Ireland’s Last Working Coal Mine

Now it’s time to experience first-hand the working conditions of those who spent so much of their time labouring under these mountains. You’ll be in the company of an ex-miner, someone who knows their way around these mines!

Inside the mine, you’ll hear the constant dripping of water, feel the intensity of the darkness, see the cramped areas where miners lay on their sides, chipping away at the rock for hours on end. It’s an experience that’ll leave a lasting impression.

Exhibition Highlights

Arigna Mining Experience was developed to preserve the energy heritage of the Arigna Valley and to ensure that Arigna maintains its link with Energy themes: Past, Present & Future.

This attraction provides visitors with a unique insight into what coal mining life was like in the Arigna Valley, since its beginning in the 1700’s until closure in 1990.

During the underground tour, visitors will experience what it was like to work in some of the narrowest coal seams in the western world.

The tour, which will last 45 minutes, brings visitors to the coal face of the mine, where the methods used to extract coal are demonstrated. Lighting and sound effects in the mine add to the authenticity of the underground experience.

Local geology and the formation of coal deposits are explained in our exhibition area, as is the history of energy production.

The exhibition space presents the origins and history…It explores its impact on the local community through our photo gallery, audio visual interpretation, and historical documentation.

Voices from the Mines

“As a miner, your necessities were a No.6 and No.8 shovel, a 4 lb hammer, a wedge, a carbide lamp, carbide, and your lunch which was a bottle of tea, sandwiches, and a bottle of water.”

– Gerry Cullen, Tour Guide / Ex-Miner

The Miner’s Journey

Experience the hardship and tenacity of a life worked underground

What Visitors
Are Saying

“Amazing visit. Great experience going into the coal mine with tour guide Gerard, one of the miners from days past.”

– Mary M.

Safety First!

Remember to bring a warm jacket, as the temperature underground is always a cool 10˚.

Everyone taking the underground tour is accompanied by a tour guide and is required to wear a hygiene cap and a helmet and need to follow the safety protocols in place.

While the tour is designed to be accessible, visitors who suffer from severe claustrophobia or have concerns about being in a low-light environment may want to check with our team before booking.

Plan Your Visit

Facilities

Café & Gift Shop
Free Parking
Fully Wheelchair Accessible

Getting Here

We’re situated in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, just a short drive from Carrick-on-Shannon and Sligo

Opening Times

Open All Year
Tours Daily 10am to 5pm
Tour Lasts 45 Minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour fully guided?
Yes, all tours are fully guided by experienced and knowledgeable guides, many of whom are former miners. They provide unique insights into the mining history of Arigna and share real-life stories from their time working underground.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes! The Arigna Mining Experience is fully wheelchair accessible, and our team is happy to assist visitors with mobility needs. Please let us know in advance if you require any special accommodations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes! The tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. However, parental supervision is required, and younger children should be comfortable in a dark, underground environment.

What should I wear for the tour?
As part of the tour takes place underground, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes with good grip and bringing a light jacket, as temperatures inside the mine can be cooler. Helmets will be provided for safety.