Dunmore Cave, Castlecomer

Name: Dunmore Cave
Address: Castlecomer Road, Castlecomer, Ireland
Telephone: 056/67726

#1 among attractions in Castlecomer

Museum, Natural attraction, Top attraction, Park, More...

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the verdant Irish countryside near the city of Castlecomer lies Dunmore Cave, a fascinating natural wonder that doubles as a museum and a testament to Ireland's rich geological and historical tapestry. Known for its impressive array of calcite formations, Dunmore Cave invites visitors to step into a subterranean world of ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

The cave is a site of considerable historical significance, with records dating back to the 9th century describing a Viking massacre that took place within its shadowy depths. Archaeological finds, including coins from the reign of King John and a silver hoard, bear witness to the cave's storied past.

For the modern traveler, Dunmore Cave offers a blend of education and adventure. The on-site museum provides a detailed account of the cave's formation, its history, and the various archaeological discoveries that have been made there. Knowledgeable guides lead tours into the cave, illuminating its dark corners and revealing the secrets held within its limestone chambers.

The cave system boasts some of the finest calcite formations found in Ireland. One of the most famous features is the "Market Cross," a striking calcite formation that resembles a celtic cross. The cave's environment has been carefully preserved, ensuring that its delicate ecosystem remains undisturbed. Lighting within the cave is thoughtfully designed to highlight the natural beauty of the formations without compromising their preservation.

Dunmore Cave is open to the public year-round, although opening hours may vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the opening times and book a tour in advance to avoid disappointment. The temperature within the cave remains cool, so visitors are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing. Safety is a priority, and the cave is accessible via man-made paths and stairs, making it suitable for most visitors.

Alternative names: Length: 1030 ftDepth: 150 ftElevation: 387 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 52°44'2"N, 7°14'48"W

Address

Castlecomer RoadCastlecomer Ireland

Contact

056/67726

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Day trips

Dunmore Cave – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: St Canice's Cathedral, Rothe House, Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, Black Abbey.

5.3 miS
Catholic cathedral and 9th-century tower
St Canice's Cathedral, Kilkenny
137 min walk • St Canice's Cathedral, a historical beacon nestled in the medieval city of Kilkenny, Ireland, stands as a testament to the country's rich ecclesiastical heritage. This ancient church, dating back to the 13th century, is a pivotal landmark that has witnessed the...
5.5 miS
Museum, Historical place, History museum
Rothe House, Kilkenny
141 min walk • Rothe House, a gem nestled in the heart of Kilkenny, Ireland, is a remarkable example of a 16th-century merchant's townhouse. Built between 1594 and 1610, this historic structure offers a unique window into the domestic life of the prosperous Rothe family, who were...
5.5 miS
Museum, Brewery
Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, Kilkenny
141 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Kilkenny, Ireland, the Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny offers a journey through time in the world of brewing. This museum, situated in an old Victorian brewing building, brings the story of Smithwick's, Ireland's oldest beer brand, to life with...
5.5 miS
Church, Sacred and religious sites, Gothic architecture
Black Abbey, Kilkenny
141 min walk • The Black Abbey of Kilkenny, Ireland, is a Catholic priory of the Dominican Order, dedicated to the Holy and Undivided Trinity. Black Abbey was established in 1225 as one of the first houses of the Dominican Order in Ireland. The history of the Black Abbey is marked by several reversals of fortune under different governments.
5.2 miS
Bridge
Green's Bridge, Kilkenny
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5.5 miS
Forts and castles
Grace's Old Castle, Kilkenny
141 min walk • Grace's Old Castle is a historic castle building in the centre of Kilkenny which has been extended to create the city’s modern courthouse structure. It houses one of the oldest courthouses in the country.
5.5 miS
Church
Church of Saint John the Evangelist, Kilkenny
141 min walk • The Church of Saint John the Evangelist, or John's Church, is a Gothic Revival style church in Kilkenny, Ireland. The Church was designed by William Hague and built from 1903 to 1908 on the site of an earlier church located in the graveyard. The grounds contain a trees and greenery.
5.4 miS
Monastery
St. Francis Abbey, Kilkenny
138 min walk • St. Francis Abbey, also called Kilkenny Grey Friary, is a medieval Franciscan abbey and National Monument located in Kilkenny City, Ireland.
5.9 miSE
Forts and castles
Clara Castle
152 min walk • Clara Castle is a tower house located in County Kilkenny, Ireland.
3.1 miW
Archaeological site
Foulksrath Castle
80 min walk • Foulksrath Castle is a 14th-century Anglo-Norman tower house located in Jenkinstown in County Kilkenny, Ireland.
1.9 miW
Park
Jenkinstown Park
49 min walk • Jenkinstown Park is a park in County Kilkenny, Ireland. It is situated off the N78 road about 10 km north of the city of Kilkenny and 11 km south of Castlecomer.