The name Aillwee is derived from the Irish Aill Bhuí which means "yellow cliff".

[2] Privately owned, it forms part of the Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre attraction.

The general direction is east to west but turns due south some 600 metres (2,000 ft) into the cave.

The tours end at a point called the Highway and exit the cave via a 250-metre (820 ft) man-made tunnel.

The cave complex is a member of the local hospitality association, and an active partner of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark.

Just 400-meters to the north of the upper car-park of the caves is the popular novice rock climbing location of Aill na Cronain.