High in the hills above Lough Allen, Arigna Mining Experience takes you underground into a real former coal mine — not a recreation, but the actual tunnels where generations of Roscommon families worked.

Many of the guides are former miners themselves. They share first-hand stories of cramped coal seams, long shifts, explosives, machinery and the tight-knit community that grew around the mines.

The mines finally closed in 1990 after roughly 400 years of history. Today that story is preserved in one of the most authentic underground heritage experiences in Ireland.

The underground tour lasts around 45 minutes. Allow 1½ hours overall to take in the visitor exhibition, original mining machinery and the sweeping views across Lough Allen from the visitor centre.