Northern Ireland’s rocky coastlines, limestone uplands and sea cliffs hide a surprising variety of underground spaces — from narrow passages to roomy sea caves — that reflect both the island’s geology and local history. Many are best appreciated with local knowledge of tides, access points and terrain.
There are 12 Caves in Northern Ireland, ranging from Arch Cave to White Park Bay Caves. For each entry you’ll find below County,Coordinates (WGS84),Type, so you can quickly see location and cave form before planning a visit — you’ll find below the full list and details.
How difficult are these caves to visit?
Difficulty varies widely: some are short, easily reached sea caves at low tide, while others are inland shafts or long passages needing caving experience and equipment. Check tide times, wear sturdy boots, and consider a guided trip for anything beyond a short shoreline cave.
Are any of these caves protected or off-limits?
Yes — several sites lie on private land, in protected habitats, or pose safety risks from tides and unstable rock; access can be restricted and seasonal protections may apply. Before visiting, consult local authorities or landowners and respect signage and closures.
Caves in Northern Ireland
| Name | County | Coordinates (WGS84) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marble Arch Caves | Fermanagh | 54.36,-7.92 | show cave/solutional |
| Noon’s Hole | Fermanagh | 54.37,-7.88 | pothole/vertical shaft |
| Arch Cave | Fermanagh | 54.37,-7.88 | solutional/stream cave |
| Cushendun Caves | Antrim | 55.09,-6.07 | sea cave/intertidal |
| Dunluce Cave | Antrim | 55.21,-6.57 | sea cave/rock shelter |
| Ballintoy Caves | Antrim | 55.20,-6.42 | sea cave/intertidal |
| White Park Bay Caves | Antrim | 55.18,-6.34 | sea cave/intertidal |
| Rathlin Island Caves | Antrim | 55.30,-6.33 | sea caves |
| Fair Head Caves | Antrim | 55.23,-6.20 | sea cave/cliff cave |
| Benbane Head Caves | Antrim | 55.22,-6.34 | sea cave |
| Benone Sea Caves | Londonderry | 55.12,-6.89 | sea caves/intertidal |
| Portbraddan/Portbraddon Cave | Antrim | 55.03,-6.07 | sea cave |
Images and Descriptions
Marble Arch Caves
Famous guided showcave with dramatic stalactites, an underground river and boardwalks; visitor tour about 1.6 km, wider system extending further. Public access via visitor centre; follow guided tours and watch for slippery surfaces and low headroom in places.
Noon’s Hole
A deep vertical shaft and classic caving descent known to technical cavers; shaft drops roughly 80 m into a larger cave system. Access requires caving experience and permission from local clubs; extreme caution, ropes and experienced team essential.
Arch Cave
Part of the Noon’s Hole–Arch Cave system with active stream passages and significant survey length; offers archaeology and extensive passages for experienced cavers. Access by permit and experienced teams only; watch for flooding after rain, tight squeezes and cold water.
Cushendun Caves
Striking coastal caves carved into basalt and sandstone, used as a TV filming location. Short, accessible at low tide with sandy floors and dramatic roofs. Public access but check tides and slippery rocks; avoid at high tide and during storms.
Dunluce Cave
Small, atmospheric sea cave tucked beneath Dunluce Castle ruins; short chambers and impressive coastal setting. Easily visited from the castle car park; tidal access can be hazardous, keep back from cliff edges and unstable rock.
Ballintoy Caves
Cluster of small coastal caves and blowholes at Ballintoy Harbour, popular with photographers. Short passages and dramatic sea-carved openings. Public access at low tide; watch for strong waves, uneven rock and sudden swell.
White Park Bay Caves
Series of shallow sea caves along a sandy bay backed by dunes; good for families at low tide with fossil-bearing cliffs nearby. Public access but tide-dependent; avoid cliff bases after heavy rain and respect nesting birds in season.
Rathlin Island Caves
Rathlin’s shoreline hosts several sea caves and inlets reached by boat or coastal walks; some shelters extend inland. Seasonal seabird colonies nearby; many caves are tide-dependent and rough at sea, so use local boat operators and heed safety advice.
Fair Head Caves
Small sea caves and overhangs beneath Fair Head’s basalt cliffs, notable for dramatic coastal scenery and cliff-top walks. Accessible at low tide in places; cliffs are steep and exposed — stay away from edges and avoid unstable rock.
Benbane Head Caves
Coastal caves and fissures at Benbane Head with striking vertical cliffs and sea-carved cavities. Reachable from nearby paths at low tide; high cliffs and strong currents make it unsuitable for casual swimming — respect signage and weather conditions.
Benone Sea Caves
Small coastal caves at Benone Strand along a long sandy beach, popular for coastal walks and sunset views. Mostly short chambers with sandy floors; safe at low tide but avoid venturing far from shore alone and be mindful of tides.
Portbraddan/Portbraddon Cave
A named small sea cave near the Glenarm/Portbraddan shoreline, offering a short sheltered chamber at low tide. Publicly visible from coastal path; access depends on tide and sea state, and rockfall can be a hazard.
