The following is a list of caves where access is either restricted or has been cut off.

As the situation can change dramatically in a very short period, please check with other cavers if in doubt.

Remember, it is normal and recommended that all cavers request access permission from the landowner responsible, where possible.

Read the SUI’s cave access policy (PDF). If you are unsure of access to any cave, please contact our conservation and access officers at conservation@caving.ie

Co. Fermanagh & Co. Cavan

The following caves in the Fermanagh / Cavan area have access restrictions currently in place.

Inappropriate bolting in Pollasillagh Co. Fermanagh 

(Bolts inspected on 2nd March 2025 by Les Brown, Alasdair Kennedy and Stephen Read)

Three bolts had been placed on the entrance ladder pitch (or bold free climb) in Pollasillagh. These bolts have been in recent use by cavers for progression, using SRT or ladder & lifeline, to access the cave. SUI strongly advises that these bolts should not be used. Below we share the description and inspection of the bolts, so that the reasoning for their removal is clear. 

The first bolt lies back from the pitch head on the left side of the passage and was placed in a large discreet boulder of unknown stability.  The second and third bolts were positioned higher up above the pitch head for a Y-hang, with one bolt placed in a large, discreet boulder which is not substantially supported. 

Whilst the main concern with the route is the placement of bolts in boulders it should also be noted that the backup bolt for the main rig was also significantly lower than the Y-hang. So for this particular route the anchor placement was poor both in terms of geology but also shock load prevention.

One proposal put to the SUI has been to improve the historic access via ladder and lifeline by installing bolts appropriate for this technique; this would replace one old, rusted spit with new resin bolts. SUI will provide an update when a replacement route has been agreed and the new bolts have been installed. In the meantime we will arrange for the bolts to be removed.

As always, if you come across bolts that you have concerns about, please do report them to SUI.

Pollnagossan Cave, County Cavan

Please be aware that the SRT progression route in Pollnagossan Cave is being reviewed for re-bolting. Also, do be aware that there has been a recent rock fall of a chert ledge on the main pitch. At this time the progression route on the main pitch consists of spits and Petzl permanent bolts. 

Until the cave is re-bolted, access to the cave should be undertaken with due care and caution. A friendly reminder to please always check any bolts before you use them and if you are placing slings on natural anchors carefully inspect the rock first (avoid using any natural anchors that are chert). SUI will provide an update on the rebolting of Pollnagossan when it has been completed.

Pollthanarees

Following a rescue at Pollthanarees an information sign has been placed at the entrance detailing safe access to the cave, please abide by the information provided.

Cradle Hole

Access to Lower Cradle cave is gated, access is via the access agreement with Marble Arch Cave Centre, see details below

Marble Arch System

This system is extensively gated and access has been negotiated by SUI. Registered bona-fide cavers (SUI, BCA ,etc) are permitted, though adventure companies or paid tours are not. Cavers seeking access should contact the manager at the Marble Arch Cave centre before a trip where you will be asked to sign the access agreement and present proof of SUI/BCA Membership

West Gorge – Bruces Pot – Cuilcagh Mountain Car Park

Access here is currently under negotiation, the landowner has begun charging for use of Cuilcagh Mountain Car Park due to the popularity of the Mountain Boardwalk. Parking alongside the verges outside the car park is NOT acceptable and the landowner has stated that cave access will be restricted if this continues. Currently payment for use of the car park or walking from somewhere with acceptable parking are the only options.

Pollaraftara – Legland Rising Area

Access is strictly by permission of the Landowner.

Parking for the Cave is currently in the process of being re-negotiated. Currently parking along the public road is the only acceptable location, ensure you do not block access ways or the roadway. Do not park anywhere beyond the first cattle grid.

Reyfad

Access is strictly by permission of the Landowner.

NO ACCESS  IS CURRENTLY PERMITTED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.

Pollnacrom

Access is strictly by permission of the Landowner.

NO ACCESS  IS CURRENTLY PERMITTED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.

Polltullybrack

Access is strictly by permission of the Landowner.

NO ACCESS  IS CURRENTLY PERMITTED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.

Carrickbeg Rising Cave

Entrance is unstable and some shoring has taken place but currently can be negotiated with care.  For up to date information contact the conservation@caving.ie prior to entering the cave

Agnahoo

As a reminder access to Agnahoo remains closed, renovation works are ongoing and it is not yet known if or when Aganhoo will potentially be made available to caving groups for future rentals.

Cascades Rising

SUI submitted our annual entertainment/events license and Public Liability insurance credentials with the NIEA to facilitate continued unfettered access to Cascades Rising Cave in the Cladagh Glen for all SUI members.  Unfortunately, our 2024 application has so far been denied due to the ongoing (and prolonged) closer of the Glen to allow for rock stabilisation and ash die-back clearance works.  An industrial-scale perimeter fence and gate have also been installed across the path at the gate just up from the scout hut.  We have been in direct contact with NIEA and have been informed that the Glen should be reopening ‘soon’ but an actual date has yet to be confirmed.

Shannon Cave

SUI would like to thank all cavers who followed the farmer’s request to avoid trips to Shannon Cave and its usual parking spot during lambing season in April. The landowner has long had a positive and beneficial relationship with the caving community and we appreciate all cavers respecting their wishes.  We can confirm that cavers can now access the usual parking spot.

Boho Caves

Upper ravine area: Should NOT be visited under any circumstances because of roosting bats.

Co. Clare

The following caves in the Clare area have access restrictions currently in place.

Poll na Graí

A new wall has been built around the cave entrance here, please be careful crossing the wall – if you knock a rock off put two back.

Poll an Ionain

This cave opened as a show cave in 2006, there is no access for cavers beyond the show-cave tour.

Poll na gCeim

Access to this cave is currently not available. This is due to the lack of respect shown to the landowner by cavers in the past e.g. damage to walls etc. Negotiations are ongoing, please respect the current ban.

Glencurran Cave

Glencurran Cave, situated in the Burren National Park, is a site of archaeological and natural importance. Entry is fully permitted to current SUI members by way of obtaining a key for the gate installed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The SUI key holders in Clare are John Sweeney and Colin Bunce. It is important to note that entry will not be permitted at roosting times (November to March) due to the presence of Lesser Horseshoe Bats.

Inch Cave: Td Inch / Kilmailey

Cavers are advised to avoid this cave in Winter because of a large number of hibernating Horseshoe bats.

Poulnadatig

Because of its important bat population this cave has been gated.

Doolin River Cave

Please note there has been a rockfall in Doolin River Cave. It is in the low wet crawl between the Doolin road sink and the Smithy Grotto. Four rocks have dropped down and there is a lot of loose material above them. A route has now been cleared under the fallen material but this will only be usable in low water conditions. Another route has been made by the Clare Caving Club beside and over the fallen rocks which should be usable in any weather conditions. However one of the large rocks has a crack through it and will probably move again soon. CAUTION IS ADVISED.