2008 saw the opening of our Birds of Prey Centre @Aillwee. Home to around 30 birds of prey, we have developed the largest collection of both native and international species along Ireland’s west coast.
When Aillwee Cave first opened to visitors in 1976, Tourism in The Burren and North Clare was in its infancy.
The research and analysis behind the development of Aillwee Cave as a day visitor attraction, in the early-mid 70’s, was the realisation by original owners, Roger Johnson and Micheál Mulqueeney, that visitors to the area would be curious to explore, experience and learn about The Burren’s underground environment.
Educating both natives and visitors about this unique landscape was the company’s main drive.
Also, the establishment of a sustainable business that would provide employment for the families involved and others living in the area was a factor. In the years after opening Aillwee Cave, rising visitor numbers became the driving force behind the development of enhanced visitor facilities.
The market drove this development to some extent. Information through market research and customer feedback pointed to the necessity for the development of more experiences to enhance the offering at Aillwee Cave and thereby sustainably grow the business and provide more employment.
As the Cave became more well known as an interesting and enjoyable place to visit the company could afford to reinvest and expand. This growth led to all the developments explained above. Our directors, their families and our core management team all live in The Burren and, for the most part, grew up alongside the business.
Through experience and listening to our visitors, who are varied across all ages and nationalities, we know what it means to cater for and exceed their expectations.