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Arigna Mining Experience: A Journey into Ireland's Coal Mining Past

Explore Ireland's coal mining history with underground tours led by former miners at the Arigna Mining Experience in County Roscommon.

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Descend into the Arigna Mining Experience in County Roscommon, where former miners guide you through the narrow coal seams of Ireland's last working coal mine. Explore the history, geology, and renewable energy exhibits at this unique heritage center.

A brief summary to Arigna Mining Experience

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes and a warm jumper or jacket, as the mine temperature remains a constant 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Book your tour online in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Allow ample time to explore the exhibition area and enjoy the cafe with its scenic views of Lough Allen.
  • Consider combining your visit with a walk along a section of the Miner's Way and Historical Trail.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Arigna Mining Experience is located in Derreenavoggy, Arigna, Co. Roscommon. From Carrick-on-Shannon, follow the N4 towards Boyle, then take the R280 to Drumshanbo. From Drumshanbo, follow the signs for Arigna. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes. Free parking is available on site. Note that the roads in the area can be narrow and winding.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stop to the Arigna Mining Experience is 'Arigna Mines', which is a 6-minute walk to the destination. Bus route 567 and 572 stops at this location. These buses connect Arigna to surrounding towns such as Drumshanbo. From Dublin, take a train or bus to Carrick-on-Shannon. From there, transfer to a local bus service (e.g., route 572) to Arigna. The bus journey from Carrick-on-Shannon to Arigna takes approximately 45 minutes. A single adult fare on the local bus is approximately €4.

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Discover more about Arigna Mining Experience

The Arigna Mining Experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Irish coal miners and the history of the Arigna Valley. Mining in Arigna dates back to the 1700s, with coal extracted from some of the narrowest seams in the world. The industry sustained local families for generations, providing vital employment in a region where agriculture was challenging. The Arigna Mining Experience, opened in 2003, is dedicated to preserving the 400-year coal mining heritage of the area. The center is a community-inspired initiative that allows visitors to gain insight into the coal mining life as it was in the Arigna Valley for centuries. The highlight is a 45-minute underground tour led by ex-miners, who share firsthand stories and demonstrate coal extraction methods. Lighting and sound effects enhance the experience, bringing to life the harsh working conditions faced by miners. Above ground, explore exhibits on local geology, the formation of coal deposits, and the history of energy production. The center also showcases renewable energy systems and their operation, with views of nearby wind farms on the Kilronan Mountains. The Arigna Mining Experience also features a cafe with scenic views of Lough Allen and a gift shop offering souvenirs, handcrafted goods, and books on mining history. The center is part of the Miner's Way and Historical Trail, a 118km network of paths through Leitrim, Roscommon, and Sligo.

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