Dunmore Cave is located 10km from of Kilkenny City. History and geology blend here to give the visitor a unique learning experience. The cave has been known to man for many centuries and contains some of Ireland's finest calcite cave formations.
History and geology blend at Dunmore Cave to give an interesting and unique insight into this County Kilkenny landmark. Consisting of a series of chambers formed over millions of years, the cave contains some of the finest calcite formations found in any Irish cave. The cave has been known to man for many centuries and is first mentioned in the 9th century Irish Triads. The most interesting reference however, comes from the Annals which tells of a Viking massacre at the cave in the year 928 AD. Archaeological finds within the cave confirm Viking activity.
The visitor centre features an exhibition area, audio-visual presentation and the Cupcake Café tearoom which is open daily during the peak season. The audio-visual presentation covers four main topics aimed at all ages and interests: geology and evolution over 350 million years, animated formation of Dunmore Cave, ecology of the cave and its surrounds, and the myths and history of the cave. There is also an interactive Virtual Museum consisting of the several treasures found in the Cave including one of the most significant Viking finds in the country. Admission to Dunmore Cave is by guided tour only. The Cave is open all year round and has no wheelchair access but the visitor centre is fully accessible.