Marble Arch Nature Reserve (also known as the Cladagh Glen) is a vestige of an ancient ash wood clinging to the steep side of the Cladagh River gorge. It forms part of the wider Marlbank NNR which includes Killykeegan, Crossmurrin, Hanging Rock and Rossa Nature Reserves which are all linked by their landscape and shaped by the weathering of sedimentary Limestone. The site is also part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark.

The Marble Arch and the Cascades are arguably the highlights of this water-sculpted valley. The Arch over the river, formed when the cave roof collapsed, gets its name from the polished limestone which people believed was marble. The wooded glen is very atmospheric ensuring a magical walk for adults and children alike.

The glen had some fine planted trees of beech and various conifers, along with native hazels, ash and yew trees. In springtime bluebells, wood anemones and wild garlic carpet the valley floor, while toothwort can be found growing as a parasite on the roots of some of the hazel trees. Dippers and grey wagtails can be seen on the rocks in the middle of the fast-flowing Cladagh River, while in late summer silver-washed fritillaries occur beside the path. It is also home to the elusive pine martin and red squirrels.

There are areas where landslips on the steep sides of the gorge have taken trees with them, which adds to the interest of the site. There is a folly, locally known as The Cottage, overlooking the tourist entrance to Marble Arch. This was used for shooting parties in Victorian times and is well worth a visit.

There are two access points, the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark Visitors Centre or via the Cladagh Glen carpark. There is a linear waymarked walking route 1.25 miles/2km long. This walk is over uneven and steep terrain.

Experience Northern Ireland

Finding Treasure in NI

Cladagh Glen – Marlbank National Nature Reserve

Cladagh Glen – Marlbank National Nature Reserve

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