Arigna Mining Experience Centre was developed to preserve the energy heritage of the Arigna Valley, and to ensure that Arigna maintains its link with energy themes: past, present and future.

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



Underground Experience
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.


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

The exhibition also explains the concepts and operation of different renewable energy systems. Some of these systems can then be viewed in operation in the Energy Centre Building and on the nearby wind farms.
A history tour presents the origins and history of the Arigna coal mines. It explores its impact on the local community, through a photo gallery and displays. The Renewable Energy Demonstrations can be viewed on site in the Centre, while the wind farms can be seen on the nearby Kilronan Mountains.


The Tour
Since its opening in 2003, Arigna Mining Experience has welcomed over 350,000 visitors. Our greatest form of advertisement, "word of mouth", is proof that people are greatly impressed by their visit, which appeals to both young and old.

Accompany an ex-miner on a tour which is literally a journey through a miner's life. The dripping of water, the intensity of the darkness, the sight of the cramped areas in which the miners lay on their sides in pools of water, leave visitors astounded that such working conditions existed until relatively recent times.

• All tours given by ex-miners
• The total walking distance of the underground tour is approximately 300 metres and is all at one level
• The walking surface of the mine is mostly tarmacadam and is suitable for any footwear
• The temperature underground is 10ºC/52 F, so please wear an extra layer of clothing
• The visitor centre and underground tour are fully wheelchair accessible
• The tours last 45-55 minutes and are run on demand - usually every 30 minutes
• No dogs allowed inside our visitor centre or on tour except guide dogs
• Large free car park
• Photos and filming are permitted during the tour
• Scenic picnic area with breathtaking views. Barbeques by prior arrangement.

Santa’s Underground Grotto Event 2018

Once again, Arigna Mining Experience comes alive with a festive atmosphere. The visit to Santa in Arigna is a unique, exciting fun-filled day out for all the family.

Arigna Mining Experience is a community tourism initiative and your attendance at our festive event will contribute directly towards the preservation and further development of Arigna Mining Experience in 2019.

Opening Dates and Entertainment

Fred the Party Professor- Sat 8th Dec / Sun 9th Dec/ Sat 15thDec/Friday 21st Dec/ Sat 22nd Dec

Joe Daly Magician- Sun 16th Dec

Custard Pie Puppet Show- Sat 8th Dec/ Sun 9th Dec/ Sat 15th Dec/ Sun 16th Dec/ Fri 21st Dec/Sat 22nd Dec

Fred the party Professor’s show includes the following Magic, Music, Comedy, Juggling & Balloon Art Demonstration. Fred engages the children and adults alike in his family friendly show. Joe Daly (Sunday 16th Dec only) is one of Ireland’s leading children’s magicians and entertainers. His hugely popular television show ‘abraKIDabra’ airs daily on RTÉjr and is now in its second season. His unique style of comedy magic and illusion will have both children and adults enthralled. His highly interactive visual magic show will have the children in absolute awe one minute to uncontrollable laughter the next.

Custard Pie Puppets is one of Irelands recognised family entertainment companies founded by master puppeteer Conor Lambert and Tessa Fonfara. Conor Lambert has been performing for over 40 years and is an experienced performer in theatre and on television starting his puppetry career on RTE’s iconic ‘Wanderly Wagon’ in which he played the character of Mr Crow. Tessa Fonfara also comes from a theatrical family and is an experienced puppet maker and costume designer.

The show at Arigna Mining Experience “Christmas Crackers” features Santy’s helpers Dong & Ding, Frosty the Snowman and of course Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer and more- all wrapped up with seasonal capers, laughs and sing-a-long fun