Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has confirmed that The Marble Arch Caves in Co Fermanagh will now open year-round for visitors.
The tourist attraction is extending its opening period beyond its normal operation time, which is currently limited to spring and summer opening.
150,000 visitors visit the caves annually, throughout the season which runs traditionally from the month of March through to the end of October.
Due to increased demand for visits and tours to the caves, the Marble Arch Caves will remain open throughout the year.
The centre will now open to provide an information point and facilities for visitors to the 1.5km show cave, as well as those exploring nearby nature reserves.
Speaking about the decision to extend its opening period, Council chair Errol Thompson said the attraction remains a huge draw for tourists to the area.
He said: “Since opening its doors to the public in May 1985 this wonderful natural attraction, set in the heart of West Fermanagh against the backdrop of the stunning foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, has been a huge draw for both domestic and international visitors.
“The move to year-round opening will not only provide facilities for those visiting during the Autumn and Winter months but also new activities to do in the area which will hopefully attract more visitors to the district during this traditionally quieter part of the year.
“The extended opening period will also give year-round employment to our committed staff, who invest so much energy and enthusiasm in providing great experiences to all those who visit the Marble Arch Caves.”
Guided cave tours will be available, weather permitting, in months when traditionally the Marble Arch Caves would have been closed to the public.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, there will also be a return of the popular Elf Trail as a family attraction.
