July - December 2017 Events Guide 3

Introduction The Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark has had a very JULY busy and fruitful start to 2017, hosting many different events and National Meadows Day working closely with the wonderful communities located here in the Geopark. Saturday, 1st July. 11am - 4pm Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre & Meadow For the second half of the year 2017 we continue with another Learn more about the work being carried out by Ulster Wildlife and diverse range of events which we hope will cater to all interests the Geopark under the Magnificent Meadows project to conserve and abilities. Our aim is to host events which encourage people to these precious habitats and a chance to appreciate the biodiversity come out and interact with their Geopark and to attract visitors to on the doorstep of Marble Arch Caves. Free event. Booking not this wonderful region. required. The Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark covers a huge For more information please area of and Fermanagh and boasts numerous recreational sites as well as amazing geological and archaeological features at visit www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com or some inspiring locations. Sites like Castle Caldwell on the northern telephone +44 (0) 28 6634 8855. shores of Lough Erne right down to the impressive Clough Oughter GPS: 54.25, -7.81 Castle in the Lakelands of Cavan. All these wonderful sites across the Geopark have one thing in common – they all promote the amazing geological, archaeological, cultural and natural heritage so evident within the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark. The Geopark embraces local communities and forms partnerships so we are delighted to say that the majority of our events are run in conjunction with local communities, local tour guides or other stakeholders in the area. Our events programme for 2017 includes boat trips, caving expeditions, family fun days, bat, moth and bee keeping events, guided walk and jeep safaris. There is a real mix of activities for those interested in getting out and about and discovering the Geopark. For more details on upcoming events, news and information on all Geopark sites please visit www. marblearchcavesgeopark.com . You can also find us on “Bat Detectives” Facebook and Twitter. Saturday, 1st July, 8pm Meet at Geopark Exhibition Room, Market House, , Co Cavan Join bat expert Caroline Shiel together with local Geopark Guide Andrew King for an evening Bat Walk and Talk. Learn about our local bats, how to recognise them, where they live, where they breed, what they eat and how to protect them. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. Walk approx. 1.5km. For more information please contact +353 (0) 49 9526121 or +353 (0) 87 6638428. GPS: 54.29, -7.87 www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com 4 5

Guided Tour of Built Heritage of the Guided Geopark Walk Archaeology & Geopark – Moneygashel, Geology of Cavan – Cathal Buíί Cathal Buíί Festival Festival Saturday, 1st July, 11.30am Sunday, 2nd July, 1.45pm Church, Moneygashel, Blacklion, Co Cavan Interpretative Centre, Cavan Burren Enjoy a guided tour of the mystical surroundings of Moneygashel Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan Cashel. Discover examples of stone working spanning from As part of the Cathal Buí Community Arts and Heritage Festival prehistoric times to 20th century with local Geopark Guide Séamus come out and experience a guided tour of the wonderful Ó’hUltacháin. Distance approx. 4km. Walk will last approx. 2 prehistoric landscape of Cavan Burren Park. Learn more about the hours. Please wear stout footwear and bring warm waterproof magnificent megalithics, the amazing geology and the intriguing clothing. There is a charge of €5 and children are free. folklore of this special landscape with local Geopark Guide Séamus For more information and bookings contact Ó’hUltacháin. Walk will last approx. 3 hours. Please wear sturdy Seamus on +353 (0) 87 9653178. footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. There is a charge of €5 for adults and children are free. GPS: 54.25, -7.89 For more information see www.cavanburrenpark.ie and to book contact Séamus on +353 (0)87 9653178. GPS: 54.26, -7.88

Cuilcagh Mountain Jeep Safari Sunday, 2nd July, 2pm – 4pm Jump on board one of the Geopark Landrovers and explore the stunning patchwork of landscapes found on Cuilcagh Mountain. Cost £5 per person. This event is not suitable for children under 12 years old. Warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear required. Booking is essential - contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 or [email protected]. GPS: 54.25, -7.81

Geopark Safari Tour – Cathal Buí Festival Monday, 3rd July, 10am Meet at Market House, Blacklion, Co Cavan As part of the Cathal Buí Community Arts and Heritage Festival join us for a guided bus tour of some of the highlights of the Geopark showcasing the archaeological, geological and scenic value of this area. Tour will last approx. 4 hours. Cost is €20 for adults. For more information and to book a place please contact Ena on +353 (0) 071 9853082. GPS: 54.29, -7.87

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Cuilcagh Ramble Friday, 21st July, 2pm – 4pm Meet at Cuilcagh Mountain Park car park Take part in a guided tour of one of the most fascinating areas of the Geopark, Cuilcagh Mountain Park. Explore the lower reaches of Cuilcagh Mountain and find out more about this unique, fascinating landscape which has been over 300 million years in the making! Free event. This event is not suitable for children under 12 years old. This walk is approximately 3km in length and will not include the Cuilcagh boardwalk. Warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear required. Booking is essential - contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 Explore the Geology and Heritage or [email protected] of the Geopark by Canoe GPS: 54.25, -7.82 Saturday, 22nd July, 2pm Cavan Canoe Centre, , Co Cavan Why not see our Geopark from a different perspective! Join Cavan Canoe Centre staff with Geopark staff and experience the beauty of Lough Oughter and surrounding landscape which was shaped by the power of glaciers over 13,000 years ago. Learn about the wonderful biodiversity of this area, a designated Special Area of Conservation. Visit Clough Oughter Island and see the amazing plantation castle. The cost of this event is € 25 adults/€ 15 children. Booking is essential. For more information and to book a place please contact +353 (0) 49 9526121. GPS: 54.03, -7.43

On the trail of Finn Mac Cool Exploring Big Dog Forest Sunday, 23rd July, 2pm – 4pm Meet at Big Dog Forest Car Park Big Dog Forest takes its name after two very distinctive small rounded hills known as Big Dog and Little Dog. But, how have they formed? Legend tells us one way and science another – come along and see which you believe! Free event. This event is not suitable for children under 8 years old. Warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear required. Booking is essential - contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 or [email protected] GPS: 54.41, -7.96 8 9

Bog Day Celebration Community Festival – Sunday, 30th July, 1pm – 4pm Work House Tours Meet at Cuilcagh Mountain Park car park Monday, 7th August, 2pm – 6pm Join us to learn more about the fascinating bog habitats that Bawnboy, Co Cavan dominate the Geopark. Learn how people hand cut peat, listen to As part of Bawnboy’s Festival take a tour of Bawnboy’s stories from days gone by and take part in some bog pool dipping Workhouse. Learn about the story associated with this building. activities! A great day out for all the family. Cost free. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. Booking not required - contact For bookings and more information please contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 Dympna Headen on +353 (0)87 9891862. or [email protected] for more information. GPS: 54.12, -7.67 GPS: 54.25, -7.82 Bawnboy Community Festival - AUGUST Boat Trips to St Mogue’s Island Monday, 7th August, 2pm – 6pm Build Your Bear Workshop St Mogue’s, , Bawnboy, Co Cavan Friday, 4th August, 11am – 1pm As part of Bawnboy’s Festival take a boat tour to the mysterious Bear Essentials Centre, Bawnboy, Co Cavan ecclesticial island of St.Mogue’s. Learn about the story of St. Mogue Build your bunny or other teddy bear/animal with us at Bear and all the legends associated with this picturesque island. Please Essentials. This workshop is for all ages 3-99. Children under 6 wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. have to be accompanied by an adult. Refreshments for everyone For bookings and more information please included in price. After the workshop you can visit the teddy bear contact Aidan Brady +353 (0) 87 6905898. gift shop or have a picnic at Bear Essentials play ground. Book a place at www.bearessentials.ie or contact local GPS: 54.10, -7.67 Geopark Guide Anke on +353 (0) 87 7610537. GPS: 54.12, -7.71 Bawnboy Community Festival – Open Day at Jampa Ling Bawnboy Community Festival - Monday, 7th August, 2pm – 5pm Bee Keeping Display Sunday, 6th August, 2pm – 6pm GAA Grounds, Bawnboy, Co Cavan Join in the celebrations of Bawnboy’s Festival with this special Beekeeping Information Event where local Geopark Guide Aidan Brady of Cavan Beekeepers Association will inform participants on Jampa Ling Tibetan Buddhist Centre, Bawnboy, Co Cavan beekeeping and honey making. This is an excellent opportunity As part of Bawnboy’s Festival everyone is invited to spend an to discover more about this important creature and will give an informal day at the centre and to enjoy the garden and grounds opportunity to all who attend to learn about keeping their own with your friends and relatives. Stay for a cup of tea and visit the bees. Booking is essential. craft shop. There will also be a cake sale and book sale to raise For bookings and more information please funds for Asral Charity, Rinpoche’s Mongolian project. Offers to contact Aidan +353 (0) 87 6905898. help out on the day are greatly appreciated. For more information please contact the centre on +353 GPS: 54.12, -7.67 (0) 49 9523448 or www.jampaling.org. GPS: 54.10, -7.70 www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com 10 11

Bawnboy Community Festival – Festival Walk Friday, 4th August, 7.30pm Mountain View Garden Centre, Bawnboy, Co Cavan As part of Bawnboy’s Festival enjoy a walk of Bawnboy and surrounding areas. Distance approx. 6 km. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. For bookings and more information please contact Oliver Brady +353 (0) 87 0530906. On the Trail of Martel – Wild Caving GPS: 54.11, -7.64 Expedition Wednesday, 16th August, 2pm – 5pm Vintage Family Fun Day Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre Sunday, 6th August, 2pm-5pm Delve off the beaten track to explore ‘wild’ caving deep inside Bawnboy, Co Cavan the Marble Arch Caves System. Meander through cave passages, As part of Bawnboy’s Festival come along and join in the fun with climb through boulder chambers and squeeze though our famous various activities for all the family. flyover to emerge into the Marble Arch Showcave, before making your way out, muddy but proud! Cost £5 per person. This event GPS: 54.03, -7.43 is not suitable for children under 18 years old or those with limited mobility. All participants must be of moderate level of fitness and Taste of Cavan Festival reasonably agile. Wear old clothes and wellies. Weather dependant. 11th & 12th August 2017 Booking essential - contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Cavan Equestrian Centre, Cavan Town Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 A two-day festival celebrating locally produced food. From hand-made chocolates to award winning cheeses all proudly or [email protected] produced in Cavan. Come and experience a taste of the Gourmet GPS: 54.25, -7.81 Geopark at our stand highlighting some of our best food produces. Beekeeping and wildlife exhibition. Hampers to be won! For more information contact +353 (0) 49 9526121 Rock Detectives Clubs – Marble Arch or see www.thisiscavan.ie Caves & Cavan Burren Park GPS: 54.01, -7.35 Saturday, 19th August 2017 Session 1: 11:00am – 1:00pm, Marble Arch Caves, GPS: 54.25, -7.81

Session 2: 2:00pm – 4:00pm, Cavan Burren Park, GPS: 54.26, -7.88 Take part in our Violent Volcanoes and Earthquakes workshop as part of the 2017 Year of Risk. You’ll get the chance to see how and why earthquakes and volcanoes happen, have a go at predicting your own earthquake and making your own violent volcano to finish off the day. For more information or to book please contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre on +44 (0)2866348855. GPS: 54.26, -7.88 12 13

Under the Arms of the Beech Tree Turas Treoraithe as Gaeilge – Tuesday, 22nd August, 7pm Seacthain na Gaeilge Jampa Ling Tibetan Buddhist Centre, Bawnboy, Co Cavan Domhnach, 27ú Lúnasa 2017, 1.45pm Join us for this Woodland Walk Meditation with local Geopark Sunday, 27th August 2017, 1.45pm Guide Desmond Gough through the ancient woodland of Jampa Páirc Bhoireann an Chabháin, Learga Ling Tibetian Buddhist Centre. This walk will be followed by a Cavan Burren Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan poetry reading. Distance approx. 2.5km. Please wear sturdy Turas treoraithe as Gaeilge le Treora Geopháirce Séamus footwear and wear warm waterproof clothing. Ó’hUltacháin. I dteanga ár sinsear agus ag céiliúradh ár For more information please contact +353 (0) 49 9526121. n-oidhreachta. Caitear éadaí uiscedhíonacha allamuigh agus coisbheart láidir. GPS: 54.10, -7.70 Guided tour in Irish, with Geopark Guide Séamus Ó’hUltacháin. In the language of our ancestors and celebrating our heritage. The ‘Big Dig’ Cavan Burren Park Please wear warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. Thursday, 24th August 2017 Breis eolais dean teagmháíl le Séamus ag +353 (0) 87 965 3178. Cavan Burren Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan For more information please contact Séamus An exciting event for children this Heritage Week at Cavan Burren on +353 (0) 87 9653178. Park – The Big Dig is for kids who like to get their hands dirty! The Big Dig aims to introduce the mystery and adventure of GPS: 54.26, -7.88 archaeology in a fun and relaxing environment through original and dynamic activities. Led by the Irish School of Archaeology all ‘Things with Wings’ – Bat and Moth Night activities are hands on and practical and where better than to learn Wednesday, 30th August, 8.30pm – 10.30pm about archaeology than at our very own prehistoric park – Cavan Castle Caldwell Forest (Meet at the Castle car park) Burren! Beekeeping display with Geopark Guide Aidan Brady. Join Geopark staff to search for foraging bats in the woodland Booking is essential. using bat detectors and get up close to some of the weird and For more information please contact the Geopark Office in wonderful moth species of Fermanagh as we check out our moth on +353 (0) 49 9526121. trap. Free event. Wear warm waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear and torch required. GPS: 54.26, -7.88 Booking essential - contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 Tour of Castlesaunderson or [email protected] Friday, 25th August, 11am – 1pm Castlesaunderson, , Co Cavan GPS: 54.49, -7.98 As part of Heritage Week join us for this morning walk and learn all about this Castle’s remarkable history. Experience this historic site and learn about the heritage of the Castle and the families that lived there. Free event. Please wear warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. Meet at Castle Car Park. For more information please contact the Geopark Office in Ballyconnell on +353 (0) 49 9526121. GPS: 54.11, -7.35

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SEPTEMBER Mushroom Identification Walk Sunday, 9th September, 2.00pm Interpretative Centre, Cavan Burren Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan Learn about and how to identify the wealth of mushroom species that are abundant at this time of year in Cavan Burren Park with European Heritage Open Days – mushroom expert Tina Pommer of Leitrim Landscape Walks and Rocky Ramble local Geopark Guide Bee Smith. Please wear sturdy footwear and Sunday, 10th September bring warm waterproof clothing. €15 per person. Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre For more information or to book a place please contact Take part in a guided ramble of one of the most fascinating areas Bee on +353 (0) 71 9643936. of the Geopark, Cuilcagh Mountain Park. Explore the lower reaches of Cuilcagh Mountain and find out more about the geology, GPS: 54.26, -7.88 vernacular architecture and flora and fauna of this fascinating landscape which has been over 300 million years in the making! Free event. This event is not suitable for children under 8 years old. This walk is approximately 3km in length and will not include the Cuilcagh boardwalk. Warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear required. Booking is essential - contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 or [email protected] GPS: 54.25, -7.81

European Heritage Open Days – On the Trail of Martel – Wild Caving Jewels of the Geopark Bus Tour Expedition Saturday, 9th September, 9.30am – 4pm Saturday, 23rd September, 2pm – 5pm Meet at the Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre Join Geopark staff for a guided tour of the key sites within Marble Delve off the beaten track to explore ‘wild’ caving, deep inside Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, learn about the intriguing the Marble Arch Caves System. Meander through cave passages, history of the Cavan Burren Park, enjoy the stunning vista from climb through boulder chambers and squeeze though our famous Cornagee Viewpoint, refuel at the Market House in Blacklion, take flyover to emerge into the Marble Arch Showcave, before making an optional nature walk up Cladagh Glen, satisfy your appetite in your way out, muddy but proud! Cost £5 per person. This event the Marble Arch Café, and embark on a guided tour of the Marble is not suitable for children under 18 years old or those with limited Arch Caves! Free event (please note that lunch and refreshments mobility. All participants must be of moderate level of fitness are NOT included); and reasonably agile. Wear old clothes and wellies; Weather Booking is essential - contact dependant. Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 Booking essential - contact or [email protected] Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 GPS: 54.25, -7.81 or [email protected] GPS: 54.25, -7.81 www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com 16 17

Autumn Equinox Walk Halloween Spooktacular Sunday, 24th September 1.45pm at Marble Arch Caves Interpretative Centre, Cavan Burren Saturday, 28th and Sunday, 29th Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan October, 11am – 4.30pm Join local Geopark Guide Seamus O’hUltacháin at Cavan Burren Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre Park for an Autumn Equinox guided walk. Discover more Don your spookiest costume and journey underground on a nail about the rich archaeological and geological heritage of this biting, spine tingling, ghoulish tour of the mysterious Marble Arch wonderful landscape and learn about the importance of equinox Caves! Cost £9.50/adult £6.50/child £23/family (2A+2C) £26/ to our ancestors. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm family (2A+3C) £6.75/concession. This event is weather dependent. waterproof clothing. Booking essential - contact For more information please contact +353 (0) 49 9526121. Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre +44 (0)28 6634 8855 GPS: 54.26, -7.88 or [email protected]). GPS: 54.25, -7.81 OCTOBER Let the Stones Speak: Honoring the “Neolithic Autumn” Walk Ancestors at Samhain Sunday, 15th October, 1.45pm Sunday, 29th October, 2.00pm Interpretative Centre, Cavan Burren Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan Join us at Cavan Burren Park for a guided walk. Discover more about the rich archaeological and geological heritage of this wonderful landscape and learn about the importance of equinox to our ancestors. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. For more information please contact +353 (0) 49 9526121. GPS: 54.26, -7.88

Dark Sky Event Saturday, 28th October, Time TBC Location TBC – Please contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre for more information Join Geopark staff, Dark Sky Experts and utilise the state of the Interpretative Centre, Cavan Burren art Stem Module to observe and learn more about the mysterious Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan night sky above! Celebrate Celtic New Year at Cavan Burren Park with local Geopark Contact Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre Guide Bee Smith. Experience a guided tour of this prehistoric +44 (0)28 6634 8855 or landscape home to our ancestors for thousands of years. Bring [email protected] for more information. a picnic to share and toast the ancestors. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. GPS: 54.25, -7.81 For more information or to book a place please contact Bee on +353 (0) 719643936. GPS: 54.26, -7.88 www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com 18 19 NOVEMBER Science Week Monday 13th – Thursday 16th November Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre and Cavan location TBC A series of exciting hands-on interactive experiments aimed towards Primary School children, including Violent Volcanoes and Fossilised Footprints! All Primary Schools in Counties Fermanagh and Cavan will be contacted about this event directly with booking details. Contact Marble Arch Caves +44 (0)28 6634 8855 or [email protected] for more information. GPS: 54.25, -7.81

DECEMBER Winter Solstice Sunset Walk Saturday, 23rd December, 1.45pm Interpretative Centre, Cavan Burren Park, Blacklion, Co Cavan Experience the magic of the Winter Solstice with local Geopark Guide Seamus O’hUltacháin at Cavan Burren Park. Enjoy a guided sunset walk around this amazing relict landscape. Walkers will be guided to the famous prehistoric monuments of Cavan Burren Park to experience how our ancestors related their place of burial and worship to the astronomical phenomenon which marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring warm waterproof clothing. For more information please contact +353 (0) 49 9526121. GPS: 54.26, -7.88

www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark Marble Arch Caves 43 Marlbank Road, Legnabrocky Florencecourt, County Fermanagh Northern Ireland BT92 1EW T: +44 (0)28 66348855 E: [email protected] Ballyconnell Office Church Street Ballyconnell H14 N471 T: +353 (0) 49 9526121 E: [email protected]

For more information on upcoming events, latest news, additional Geopark sites and much more to see: www.marblearchcavesgeopark.com www.cavanburrenpark.ie

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