Hidden Flavours takes guests on an unforgettable journey beneath the surface

Marble Arch Caves, in partnership with Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, has hosted a unique underground food experience.

This October, guests were taken 50 metres underground for Hidden Flavours, an intimate food experience at Marble Arch Caves combining food, music, storytelling and the dramatic setting of the show cave.

The event began with one important question: what would be on the menu? The answer remained a secret.

Award-winning local chef John Roche curated a bespoke menu inspired by the cave environment, featuring flavours and produce from across the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark. Each taste was revealed along the guided journey, with guests discovering unexpected flavours while surrounded by limestone formations, the sound of underground rivers and the cool cave environment.

As the group moved through the show cave, the guide set the scene for each tasting, sharing stories about the dishes, the cave formations and the geological forces that have shaped this remarkable environment over thousands of years. Each stop offered something different, creating a sense of anticipation as guests discovered what was waiting for them next.

Live music added another dimension to the experience, with a selection of local artists performing throughout the evening. Harp and fiddle music echoed through the chambers, complementing the natural sounds of the cave and creating an atmosphere unlike any traditional dining experience.

The cave itself was central to the experience. Its formations, underground river, temperature, acoustics and atmosphere all helped shape Hidden Flavours, creating a food trail that could only take place in this unique setting.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, who attended the event, said: “Hidden Flavours was a truly spectacular experience. From the moment we stepped into the cave, there was a real sense of anticipation about what we would discover next.

“The combination of exceptional food, the incredible underground setting and the beautiful sound of the harp echoing through the chambers created something very special. It was wonderful to see Marble Arch Caves presented in such an imaginative way and to experience local food and talent in a setting that is quite simply unforgettable.”

Geopark Manager Gráinne O’Connor said: “Hidden Flavours has shown just how powerful the connection between food and place can be. Building on the success of Burren Bites, this experience took visitors somewhere completely unexpected, allowing the landscape itself to influence the food, music and storytelling.

“It was a wonderful celebration of local talent, local produce and the remarkable natural heritage of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark.”

Marble Arch Caves Manager, Stephen Cox, said: “Hidden Flavours was a fantastic opportunity to see the cave from a different perspective and experience the incredible backdrop it provides for food, music and storytelling. The event ran seamlessly underground, thanks to the professionalism of the Marble Arch Caves, Tully Mill Restaurant and Geopark teams.

“It has also highlighted the exciting potential to work with new partners and develop more inspiring experiences within this unique underground landscape for 2027.”

Hidden Flavours was developed in partnership with Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, building on the success of Burren Bites: A Taste of Time and continuing the focus on connecting local food, producers and the distinctive landscapes of the Geopark.

Hidden Flavours forms part of a suite of seasonal and bespoke experiences at Marble Arch Caves, offering visitors opportunities throughout the year to experience the show cave in new and unexpected ways.