cave tour yorkshire

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• SANTA’S GROTTO
• NATURE TRAIL
• +44 1524 251 242
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An Underground Adventure For All The Family In the Yorkshire Dales

Follow in the footsteps of early victorian explorers on an exciting journey venturing 500 metres underground into one of the u.k's most jaw dropping natural wonders., a premier show cave in the yorkshire dales, journey through 450 million years of geology and history, and discover spectacular formations in one of the country's natural wonders., plan your visit, what's here, the old sawmill café.

Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail

Ingleborough Cave

Climb Ingleborough

INGLEBOROUGH ESTATE NATURE TRAIL

THE LITTLE MERMAID OPEN AIR THEATRE

Santa's grotto, family yoga & mindfulness, candlelit sound meditation, outdoor yoga & soundbath, discover more, getting here, how to find us.

Located on the south side of Ingleborough, just above the picturesque village of Clapham in the Yorkshire Dales, we are easily accessible by road and rail. Select below for more details on how to get here.

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The Old Sawmill, Riverside, Clapham, LA2 8DR

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Yorkshire Dales National Park

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• Getting Here

Important Information

015242 41244

[email protected]

JUNE TOUR TIMES. (Weather Permitting )

Monday - friday 10.30am - 11.00am - 12.00pm - 1.00pm - 2.00pm - 3.00pm, saturday & sunday 10.30am - 11.00am - 12.00pm - 1.00pm - 2.00pm - 3.00pm - 4.00pm  please call 015242 41244 for details between 9.30am & 4.00pm.,  pay at the ticket office on the day of your visit., or you can now pre-book tickets online..

Please note the following important points about the cave tour. The recommendations (and some restrictions) are to help ensure that cave visits are enjoyed comfortably and safely.

Cave Layout & Flooring

• There are two low-roof passages on the cave trail. Here you will need to be able to bend low at the waist while you walk. Hard hats are provided and must be worn. For small children we recommend that a woolly hat (no bobble) or cap be worn under the hard hat for a snug fit.
• There are 97 steps on the tour. Most of these are in the access tunnel to the Battlefield Cavern.
• Much of the trail is metal grid flooring , so mobility aids such as walking sticks are not suitable for the tour. High-heeled shoes should not be worn.
• Because of the natural shape of the cave passages pushchair, buggy, wheelchair and guide dog access to the cave are not possible, and infants must not be carried in backpacks. There are disabled parking spaces, a gently sloping access ramp from the car park to the visitor centre, and a toilet for wheelchair users.

Cave Temperature

Weather conditions, your fitness.

Most people are able to enjoy the cave tour without difficulty, but please note:

• Tour duration is about 80 minutes . Distance covered underground is about one mile .
• The tour is not considered suitable for people with cardiac conditions .
• Please contact the cave if you have any doubt about your ability to do the tour.

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White Scar Cave

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White Scar Cave - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

White Scar Cave

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WHITE SCAR CAVE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Explore our caves in Yorkshire

Discover the magic and mystery of stump cross caverns..

Join us on a journey of discovery

Step back in time and explore our magnificent Yorkshire Dales caves.

The Yorkshire Dales conceal an incredible secret. Deep underground, below the hills and valleys, there lies a vast network of caves to explore. A natural wonder, hidden from human eyes for hundreds of thousands of years.

Now's your chance to step back in time. Book your tickets to Stump Cross Caverns and you'll unlock a trove of prehistoric marvels – twisting caverns, unspoilt rock formations and mysterious nooks and crannies. All frozen in time – and all with stories to tell.

Ready for adventure? Let's see what's in store…

"Psst… fancy a spot of time travel? Take our time machine for a spin and explore the 300-million-year history of our caves."

Psst…  fancy a spot of time travel?

"Take our time machine for a spin and explore the 300-million-year history of our caves."

Discover a prehistoric world underground

What to expect

A visit to Stump Cross is more than a family day out. It's a voyage back in time – a portal to a long-forgotten age before humans or dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

Join us for a day of discovery and explore some of the best-preserved prehistoric caves in the UK. You'll navigate twisting passageways, uncover incredible rock formations and learn of ancient mysteries hidden deep underground.

Whatever your age, whatever the weather – Stump Cross Caverns is always an adventure.

An hour of discovery

Our caves take about 50 minutes to explore fully.

Free kids' activities

Try our fossil quiz or search for fairy doors as you explore.

Incredible lighting

After 3PM, we switch off the lights for our magical UV experience.

All safety gear is provided, including hard hats and torches.

The start of an epic adventure

The door shuts behind you and you're instantly transported to a new world. The air seems a little cooler. Your voice echoes against the damp limestone walls. You feel a tingle of excitement – adventure awaits.

The Butcher's Shop

Duck under a rocky nook and prepare to be amazed. You've reached The Butcher's Shop – an awe-inspiring assortment of colourful stalactites. Huge and heavy, they hang imposingly from the roof as if frozen in time.

Do they remind you of anything? In the early days of Stump Cross, cavers thought they looked like massive slabs of meat hanging in a butcher's window. They even have a natural reddish tinge, thanks to the veins of iron ore in the rock. These minerals were deposited over thousands of years by rainwater that trickled in from above.

As you blink your way through twisting tunnels, the rock formations start to put on a show. Stop to admire the sheer variety of shapes and textures, then forge ahead to meet The Twins.

You'll know them when you see them: two gargantuan pillars of rock that stretch from floor to ceiling – as if they were parts of an ancient structure lost to time.

The Twins started life as stalagmites and stalactites, but grew and grew until they met in the middle. How long do you think that took?

The Wolverine Cave

A short distance on, you come to a small set of steps. Climb them to enter The Wolverine Cave, where an ancient wolverine skull was discovered back in 1922.

This cavern is a feast for the eyes. To the left, shimmering limestone pillars trickle with water. To the right, a jumble of boulders conceals a hidden route to the darkest reaches of the cave. And overhead, a giant rift teems with stalactites, which cling to the roof like barnacles on a sunken ship.

You'll be exploring more of the Wolverine Cave as you head on. Ready? Let's go.

The Curtain

You've got a little way to go until you reach The Curtain, but there's plenty to see en route. Keep an eye out for the translucent "straw" stalactites, which look almost like tiny icicles – as well as the rimstone pools, fashioned into fractal-like patterns by years of rainwater erosion.

Then you'll see it – one of the most impressive sights in the whole cave. The Curtain is a thin sheet of rock, shot through with dazzling red streaks like a dragon's wing. (Look carefully and you might even spot a snoozing dragon. Shh…)

The Chamber of Pillars

The next cavern to explore is The Chamber of Pillars, so-called because of its many impressive calcite columns. On the way, look out for The Jewel Box – a hidden nook containing a sparkling, crystal-coated pool – and The Hawk, a bird-like stump of rock, worn into shape by thousands of curious hands.

The Chamber of Pillars has many of its own treasures to discover. Perhaps the most dazzling is The Cradle – a huge boulder dripping with pure white calcite deposits, which seem suspended in mid-flow like a frozen waterfall.

The Cathedral

You're deep into the caves now – and the rock formations are coming thick and fast. Don't miss The Sandcastles – an array of shapely limestone mounds surrounded by small pools – and a splendid, bulbous stalagmite that's known as The Policeman's Truncheon.

Finally, you reach a small set of steps and ascend into The Cathedral. In this vast natural cavern, you'll see two of Stump Cross Caverns' most impressive features.

On the left is The Organ, a wall of flowstone shaped like the towering pipes of a church organ. And on the right, a true showstopper – The Wedding Cake. Balanced precariously on a mound of boulders, this gigantic calcite column looks as pure and appealing as fresh, white icing.

Reindeer Cavern

Finally, you snake back through the tunnels to see Reindeer Cavern, the latest addition to our show caves. It was opened to the public in 2000, after years of hard work clearing out the huge boulders that blocked its entrance.

Step up to its viewing platform and you'll agree – it was well worth the effort.

You'll need a few minutes to take it all in. The tall, graceful column and beautiful calcite curtain. The teensy straw stalactites that seem to trickle from the ceiling. And – wait a moment – are those reindeer bones on the floor?

And that's not all…

Th ere's more than caves to visit at Stump Cross Caverns.

Explored every hidden corner of our caves? There's still plenty to do and see.

Why not search for treasures in our gift shop? Or pan for real crystals in our gem sluice? Or stop for a spot of tea and cake in our Time Cafe?

Whether you're looking for a fun family day out or you just love to learn, you can expect a whole day of adventure at Stump Cross.

There's more than caves to visit at Stump Cross Caverns.

Ready to explore for real?

Nothing compares to the real thing. Book your tickets today and discover the magic of our Yorkshire Dales caves for yourself.

Stump Cross Caverns

Greenhow Hill

Pateley Bridge

01756 752780

All Rights Reserved | Stump Cross Limited

Crafted with creativity and marketing savvy by My Digital Hero

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Privacy Policy

Open every day from the 23rd March until the 3rd of November (excluding 8th June for Knaresborough Bed Race) and selected dates for Christmas

Lost boys themed event this may half term: 25th may – 2nd june, a wild adventure this may half term check out this review from yorkshire tots to teens, delicious savoury & sweet treats are available to purchase during your visit, please consider nominating us in the knaresborough business awards, contact us to arrange your educational or large group visits, guided tour options also available during term time weekdays, dogs on a lead are welcome in all areas excluding the playground and gift shop (with the exception of guide and assistance dogs), learn about mother shipton’s story and visit the small cave in which she was said to have been born, plenty of undercover seating for picnics in any weather, go wild in our adventure playground (subject to weather and ground conditions), as seen on bargain hunt on bbc one, read more about may half term: lost boys, voted knaresborough’s favourite attraction for the second year, browse quirky items in our gift shop of curiosities, mother shipton’s features on japanese tv, jonathan ross petrifies his pants at mother shipton’s cave, winners of small visitor attraction of the year in the visit york award 2023, behold the mystical powers of the magical water that turns all it touches to stone, a unique display of textile sculptures made by fairytale artist mister finch on show in the museum, tickets for our summer holidays ‘finding neverland’ event will be released shortly, hocus pocus themed event this halloween, one of the ‘best christmas grottos to meet santa’ in the uk, according to the telegraph, view our accessibility guide for more information about access, 10-5.30pm (last admission 4pm).

Dogs on a lead are welcome in all areas of the Mother Shipton’s park, apart from the adventure playground and the Museum & Gift Shop, with the exception of Guide/Assistance Dogs. Please note that due to the unique setup of our Christmas event, dogs are not permitted on site during this event, with the exception of Guide/Assistance Dogs.

Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 8DD

Open every day from the 23rd March until the 3rd of November (excluding 8th June for Knaresborough Bed Race) and selected dates for Christmas.

Off peak (Term-time weekdays)

• £30 per car (for up to 5 people) / pedestrian group (of up to 5 people)
• £10 per pedestrian or additional passenger
• Under 3s Free

Peak (Weekends/Bank Holidays and Events) – Easter, May Half Term, Summer and Halloween

• £36 per car (for up to 5 people) / pedestrian group (of up to 5 people)
• £13 per pedestrian or additional passenger

Unfortunately we do not accept motorhomes.

Mother Shipton's Cave in Knaresborough is England's Oldest Tourist Attraction, open since 1630, and is also the legendary birthplace of England's most famous prophetess. The small cave where she was born tells the story of her life and legacy, alongside the unique geological phenomenon of the petrifying well. The attraction also offers something for all ages, with events during the school holidays and plenty of magic and wonder to discover as you wander through the ancient forest.

May Half Term

Summer holidays, christmas at mother shipton's.

Experience the Magic of Mother Shipton's Cave

Nestled amidst the picturesque town of Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, our site boasts riverside walks, fascinating history, and breath-taking views. The Petrifying Well is a natural wonder that visitors have come to see for hundreds of years, as the uniquely high mineral content in the water 'turns items to stone' as if by magic. You can also visit the small cave where, legend has it, a prophetess was born, and make a wish in the famous wishing well. Interactive themed events for families take place during school half terms for Easter, May, Summer, Halloween and Christmas. We are easily accessible by car or public transport. Get ready to be captivated by the stories, scenery, and supernatural wonders that await you at England's oldest attraction.

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Events and Activities for All

Bring your family and friends to create lasting memories as you wander through our enchanted woodland, have a picnic by the river, and learn about the history of Mother Shipton. There's something for everyone to enjoy. Throughout the year, we host a range of exciting events and activities to make your visit even more special. From themed trails and displays to a magical Christmas Experience, there's always something to look forward to at Mother Shipton's Cave. Check our event calendar to plan your visit accordingly.

A Dog-Friendly Attraction

Dogs on a lead are welcome in all areas of the Mother Shipton’s park, apart from the adventure playground and the Museum & Gift Shop, with the exception of Guide/Assistance Dogs. Please note that due to the unique setup of our Christmas event, dogs are not permitted on site during this event with the exception of Guide/Assistance Dogs.

Connect with Mother Shipton's Cave on social media. Share your stunning photos, leave comments, and stay informed about the latest news, exclusive updates, and behind-the-scenes insights. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and more to stay connected and be part of the conversation.

Leave a Review on TripAdvisor

Did you have an enchanting and memorable time exploring Mother Shipton's Cave? We would love to hear about your experience! Help us spread the magic by leaving a review on TripAdvisor. Share your thoughts, recommendations, and highlights of your visit to help others discover the wonders that await them.

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The Longest Show Cave In Britain Is In The Yorkshire Dales

Found in 1923 by a Cambridge student Christopher Long whilst on Holiday, White Scar Caves in the Yorkshire Dales is the longest show cave in Britain. You can enjoy exploring the cavern in a much safer environment than the Cambridge student did back then whilst he crawled through with candles in his bowler hat, you can take guided cave walks along metal-grid walkways.

Take a tour deep underground in this unique cave walk in the Yorkshire Dales. You will be taken on a one-mile trip into the deep cavern in an 80-minute excursion that promises underground streams, thundering waterfalls and more. The heart of the cave system is pretty awe-inspiring and a great little adventure as you make your way through low-roofed tunnels.

The highlight of the trip into the dark caves is the magnificent Battlefield Cavern. The 100ft huge cave is decorated with thousands of stalactites, that hang like stone icicles from the ceiling, which are produced by the precipitation of minerals from water dripping through the cave ceiling. 

Read More: Explore The Historic Mile-Long Caves Trail Below The Yorkshire Dales

The mini excursion can get pretty cool depending on the weather, so a jacket is advised. Wearing a hard hat, you’ll be guided along paths that are all lighted up to help guide you through caverns, and you’ll be given information on the history of the cave and how it was carved out millions of years ago.

It’s a once in a lifetime trip, and it sits in God’s Own Country, so we don’t even have to travel far to experience one of the world’s most unique experiences – not bad, eh. It costs £13 for adults (16+), £8 for a child with under 3 getting in free. They also do a family ticket £34 for two adults and two children.

If you’d like to book or find out more information, you can visit their website here .

Read More: The Highest Unbroken Underground Waterfall Is In Yorkshire Dales

Feature Image Credit: White Scar Caves

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Prices from £70 per person

Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit with an Unbeatable Caving Experience in Yorkshire!

Caving is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. At How Stean Gorge, your caving journey will lead you through the underground passages of Nidderdale, where you’ll encounter a world of wonder and mystery. Wade through crystalline waters, scramble through vast caverns, and marvel at the sight of ancient fossils. Embrace the challenge of sliding through the mud as you navigate horizontal and vertical routes, uncovering the secrets of the Nidderdale cave system, a network of  twelve kilometres of intertwining passageways  including caves like the renowned Manchester Hole and Goyden Pot.

What is Caving

Caving, also known as potholing, is an exhilarating adventure activity that involves exploring the subterranean world of caves and underground passages. Participants venture into naturally created caves to experience the breath taking beauty and mystery hidden beneath the earth’s surface. You are, of course, equipped with safety gear such as helmets, headlamps, and knee pads, which allows our cavers to traverse through narrow passages, climb over rock formations, wade through underground streams, and marvel at unique geological formations. It’s a chance to embrace the unknown, challenge personal boundaries, and immerse oneself in a world of darkness and wonders few have seen. Caving offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature’s hidden realms and witness the captivating forces that have shaped our planet for millennia, leaving participants with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world underground.

More Outdoor Activities and Facilities

For the best caving experience in Yorkshire, How Stean Gorge is your ultimate destination. And there’s more! Explore our range of  outdoor activities ,  food and drink options  or  lodges and camping availability . Our friendly team is eager to guide you on your journey to an extraordinary and exhilarating adventure amidst the natural wonders of the Yorkshire Dales so please get in touch with our friendly team, who will be more than happy to guide you in the right direction.

Our Caving experience includes

Our half-day caving adventure promises to be a highlight of your day! A detailed safety briefing will ensure your preparedness for the subterranean exploration ahead. With all safety equipment provided, including caving suits, belts, knee pads, wellington boots, helmets, and head torches, you’ll feel secure and ready for the thrill. Our friendly, highly experienced instructors, with a maximum group size of 10 people per instructor, are dedicated to guiding you through the depths, ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout the entire journey.

• Half-Day Unforgettable Caving Experience
• Detailed safety briefing
• All safety equipment provided including a caving suit, caving belt, knee pads, wellington boots, helmet and head torch
• A friendly, highly-experienced, qualified caving instructor
• Maximum of 10 per instructor
• As a bonus, you also get free entry to the gorge on the day of your outdoor activity, worth £8!

Why choose How stean Gorge for your caving adventure? Our unique and breathtaking gorge offers an unparalleled caving experience that you won’t find anywhere else. With a team of experienced and certified guides, we ensure your safety while providing you with an unforgettable journey through North Yorkshire.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced caver, we our caving experiences can suit all levels of expertise. You can trust us to provide you with a thrilling, educational, and truly memorable caving adventure. Join us at Hows tean Gorge and unearth the mysteries that lie beneath our stunning Yorkshire landscape!

• Super friendly and  highly qualified instructors  who specifically hold  British Caving Association  qualifications – either the Local Cave Mine Leader Award (LCMLA) or the Cave Instructor Certificate (CIC).
• High-quality equipment
• 5 star rated (see our  reviews )
• Hundreds of happy customers
• 1 instructor per 10 participants
• AALA Licensed Centre
• You can book this experience as part of a day or weekend of adventure.

Great for Personal Development

Here at How Stean Gorge, we believe greatly in the benefits of outdoor activities on both a personal and a team level! There are several development advantages from a caving experience, especially if you’re trying it as part of a school trip or work team-building activity.

• Strengthen your communication skills : the passages can be dark and winding, so communication is vital to avoid getting lost!
• Learn to trust others : it takes a lot to trust to follow someone into a small space underground. This experience really pushes you to rely on your instructor and let go.
• Build your self-confidence : caving is an effective way to develop your self-belief and confidence to try new and scary things, overcome fears and build resilience – particularly if you are claustrophobic.
• Become more reflective : evaluate your own and others’ experience in order to spot strengths and weaknesses to build on for next time!

See more  mental health benefits of outdoor activities  over on our  blog .

Our half-day caving adventure promises to be a highlight of your trip!

You’ll meet your instructor at How Stean Gorge (HG3 5SF) at the appointed day and time. Please come to reception/café on arrival.

When does this take place?

Daily: Activities generally start at 9.30am for morning sessions and 1.30pm for afternoon sessions. This activity is available throughout the year, however, we do constantly monitor weather conditions for safety purposes. Booking is essential.

What to Expect

You can look forward to walking, crawling, climbing or  abseiling  around some of the most incredible natural wonders that the country has to offer. If you’re looking for something a bit different – and you don’t mind a bit of mud! – then a Yorkshire caving experience is a must.

• Full or half-day UK caving experiences
• Book time with a private instructor or an open session with mixed groups
• Tailored sessions for beginners or advanced potholers
• Ages seven and up
• Available for  school trips ,  corporate visitors  and  families

What happens on the day?

Our sessions start at 09.30am and 1.30pm daily. We request that you arrive approximately 30 minutes before your start time and wear  appropriate clothing .

A detailed safety briefing will ensure your preparedness for the subterranean exploration ahead. With all safety equipment provided, including caving suits, belts, knee pads, wellington boots, helmets, and head torches, you’ll feel secure and ready for the thrill. Our friendly, highly experienced instructors, with a maximum group size of 10 per instructor, are dedicated to guiding you through the depths, ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout the entire journey. With sessions starting at 9.30 am and 1.30 pm daily, you’ll have ample opportunity to immerse yourself in this unique experience.

When you book onto one of our Yorkshire caving experiences, we can link those passageways up to create routes with varying difficulty. There are plenty of options available and we are happy to tailor your caving experience to your preferences. We’ll give you an amazing time and an experience you’ll never forget.

Back at base there are warm showers to change and refresh if needed.

Who is caving suitable for?

No previous experience is necessary makes this activity ideal for people of any skill level from  7 years old.   You can book individually or as part of a group, you’ll have the best of times with family and friend groups or as part of a hen and stag do weekend. This activity is also available as a residential or school day trip activity. Please see our educational  package  details here or contact our Outdoor Adventure Team on 01423 755666.

Booking Last Minute?

Online bookings close fourteen days before the date of the experience. If you cannot see any available space on our bookings calendar, please contact us on 01423 755666. In most cases, we should still be able to fit you in, as we often have additional instructors onsite.

Ready to book your activity

We have so much to offer

Find out more about the facilities and service available on-site

Once again the welcome at How Stean can not be beaten. My favourite place in the UK we will be back again next year.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

• Victoria Cave
• Mossdale Caverns
• Yordas Cave
• Stump Cross Caverns
• White Scar Cave
• Ingleborough Cave
• Great Douk Cave
• Three Counties system
• Gaping Gill
• Long Churns and Alum Pot

Caves and potholes form a major part of our limestone landscape. This landscape is known as karst and the Yorkshire Dales National Park is the finest and most extensive example in Britain. There are over 2500 known caves in the Dales including the longest system in Britain, The  Three Counties , and the famous large chamber of Gaping Gill. There are popular beginners trips such as  Long Churns  with its famous squeeze called the Cheesepress, and  Great Douk Cave .

Caving is not all about crawling either – there are magnificent stream way passages where the ceiling is high in the distance and big chambers –  Gaping Gill  is large enough to accommodate St Paul’s Cathedral. If you think it is dank and gloomy you also need to think again, with their beautiful passages and shafts and calcite formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, curtains and flowstone, they can be places of great beauty and peace.

How do caves form?

The caves of the Yorkshire Dales have formed in limestone rock over a period of many thousands of years. Limestone is a strong rock but has many joints and cracks and is also soluble in rainwater, although extremely slowly. In cave systems other processes are also involved in their formation. Abrasion by sand and cobbles is very important. Spray erosion occurs near underground waterfalls. In larger chambers wall and roof collapse can speed up these processes.

How can I explore them?

Go on a course.

Exploring caves takes knowledge, the right equipment and experience. It is best to gain these either through a course run be a qualified guide, or by joining a local club. If you know what you are doing and just need to hire some equipment, then  Inglesports  is the place to go.

Have a look in the  Call in the Experts  section or on the  New to Caving  website for a local club.

Alternatively you can gain a taste of the experience by visiting one of the show caves in the Dales:

• White Scar Cave  near Ingleton
• Ingleborough Cave  near Clapham
• Stump Cross Caverns  near Greenhow

Annual winch into Gaping Gill

Each year members of the public can be lowered into Gaping Gill by winch to see the dramatic main chamber from underground. The winch meets are organised by  Craven and  Bradford Pothole Clubs  and occur every year centred around the bank holidays at the end of May and end of August.

search tel 01904 500094 [email protected]

Yorkshire Dales Horizontal Caving Locations

Horizontal caving courses and taster sessions.

For information on all our caving trips (inc. pricing) visit our main caving page  

Runscar and Thistle

Suitable for all abilities with optional challenges for even the most hardy! This is an excellent trip for school groups, team building days and families. Have a go at navigating the underground landscape below Ribbleshead Viaduct.

PRICES AND INFO

Long Churns and Wilsons Cave

One of the best experiences in the country, suitable for beginners to intermediates. Climb waterfalls, traverse pools of water and pass features such as Dr Banister’s Hand Basin and squeeze through the infamous (but optional) ‘cheese press’. An experience not to be missed!

Goyden Pot and Manchester Hole

From Goyden’s large, impressive entrance, descend through passageways with an optional abseil into the main chamber. Follow an underground stream way, clamber over boulders and wade through crystal clear water as you travel back in geological time.

We enter to the main streamway, a large open passage complete with stream-side beaches! Upstream leads to the site of the Gloop and Sloop, a fun adventurous climb and crawl that brings our group to the Old Final Chamber, a mighty impressive chamber!

Yordas and Kingsdale Master Cave

Our trip visits two cave systems. We combine Yordas and Kingsdale Master Cave to provide maximum activity and variety. Large chambers, optional challenges and a vast underground network. A big, impressive and varied trip.

Here we will learn about the formation of caves and the karst formations. Once entering the world below, we navigate twisting passageways and crawl spaces. We will find ourselves climbing cascades and squeezing through fissures in the bedrock.

Vertical Caving

Need more adventure? You’ll abseil into huge chambers and traverse above waterfalls deep underground. As you descend, you’ll feel like you’re exploring a lost world. It’s not for the faint of heart.

SEE VERTICAL CAVES

Our Locations

Distances to Cave Venues in the Yorkshire Dales

Long Churns, Runscar and Thistle, Great Douk and Yordas These caves are close to Settle, Ingleton, Skipton and the M6. Manchester 1-hour 30-mins, Bradford and Leeds 1-hour 15-mins.

Goyden Pot Close to Pateley Bridge, York, Leeds, Harrogate, Ripon and the A1. Leeds and Bradford are approximately 1-hour 15-mins away.

Dow Cave Dow Cave is next to Kettlewell, in close proximity to Skipton (25 minutes), allowing access from Leeds and Bradford, as well as the A1 and M6.

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Awards Winner!

We joined some thirty family business finalists from across the region at The Yorkshire and Humberside Family Business Awards on Friday 11th November.

Held at the iconic Leeds Headingly Stadium, the awards were a true celebration of all that is family business, representing companies of all sizes and from a variety of industry sectors.

A capacity crowd of over 200 gathered on the night to see the winners of the region’s best family businesses revealed. Hosting the evening were awards founders, Sue Howorth and Dave Clarkson alongside food writer and presenter, Nigel Barden.  

Little Wold Vineyard, named as a finalist earlier this year, were announced as the winner of the ‘Agri Business’ category on the night.

For more information about the awards and the full list of 2022 winners, visit www.yorkshireandhumbersidefamilybusinessawards.co.uk . 

Our Vineyard

Established in 2012, little wold vineyard in the yorkshire wolds has over 30, 000 vines of 5 different white grape varieties and 2 red. our first crop being harvested in 2016..

Discover our award winning still and sparkling English wines and the story behind each of their names…

Tasting Tours

Book a tour with us and learn all about the vineyard and our farms history, as well as sampling our award winning wines.

Wine By The Bottle

Wine By The Case

Explore our products including our wines, gifts and adoption packages

Gifts & Adoption Packages

Tours & Tastings

Your happily ever after starts here…

We love to hear from our customers, so please get in touch with any questions

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Little Wold Vineyard is part of Market Place Farm .

South Cave, East Riding of Yorkshire | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy

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Alerts in effect, july 1st - july 31st, august 1st - august 10th, 2024, august 11th - august 24th, 2024, august 25th - august 31st, 2024, tour reservations.

Cave tours often sell out during the summer and early fall seasons, and reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations are the only way to ensure a spot on a tour is available for your party. Please plan accordingly by visiting Recreation.gov or calling 877-444-6777 to secure your tickets in advance. Availability of walk-up tickets is not guaranteed.

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Contact recreation.gov.

By Phone:  (877) 444-6777 TDD (hearing impaired):  (877) 833-6777 Online:   www.recreation.gov Call Center Hours:  9:00 am - 9:00 pm Central Time

Cave Tour Cancellation Policy

Refunds will be processed if you cancel before your tour time and date. There will be $1 per ticket charge regardless the reason for the cancellation. Customers who cancel any tour after the reservation time and date or no-shows will forfeit the tour fee.  For Wild Cave, Introduction to Caving, and Trog tours:

• Cancellations made 10 or more days prior to the Tour Date will be no charge.
• Wild Cave Tour: $12.00
• Introduction to Caving Tour: $6.00
• Trog Tour: $4.00

Descriptions of Cave Tours

Accessible tour ♿, call the visitor center at 270-758-2180 on the day of your visit for availability..

Utilizing the Elevator Entrance, this tour emerges near the famous Snowball Room. Continuing through historic Cleaveland Avenue, this tour passes through areas of the cave highly decorated with historic signatures and sparkling geological formations. This tour is ideal for people who wish to see the cave and are looking for a tour with no stairs. This is an accessible tour. This tour is designed for persons with a disability, limited physical mobility, or any other reason for a tour with no stairs. If no one in your party needs an accessible tour, please consider selecting another tour unless this is the only tour available at the time of your request. Wheelchairs, scooters and other assistive devices are allowed. Accessible restrooms are on this tour.   Participants meet at the visitor center for a caravan in their personal vehicles to drive approximately 2 miles to the elevator entrance. Assistive devices will need to be decontaminated upon exiting the cave to limit the spread of White Nose Syndrome. Please note that no transportation or mobility assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, walkers or canes are available. NPS employees will not transport or assist visitors or visitor equipment. If visitors need assistance with the Park's accessible features, they must bring a companion with them for aid. Duration:  2 hours Distance:  0.5 miles (0.8 km) Total Stairs:  No stairs Difficulty:  Easy Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  Yes Tickets available for each tour time: 14 Fees:  $27 Adults, $21 Youth, $13.50 Senior Pass Holder, $13.50 Access Pass Holder.  

Mammoth Passage - Not Always Offered.

An introductory tour into the Historic Entrance, this section of cave houses many great artifacts left behind by historic and prehistoric people. Staying along broad walkways in some of the largest rooms in Mammoth Cave, this tour is ideal for those who do not like tight spaces, have small children, or anyone looking for a tour with limited steps. This tour is the guided version of the Self-Guided Discovery Tour. Includes part of the Historic Tour and all of the Discovery Tour routes. Includes a steep outdoor hillside trail to and from the cave’s natural entrance. This tour does not see dripstone formation areas. Duration:  1.25 hours Distance:  0.75 miles (1.2 km) Total Stairs:  135 Difficulty:  Easy Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  70 Fees:  $15 Adults, $13 Youth, $7.50 Senior Pass Holder, $7.50 Access Pass Holder

Discovery Tour (Self-Guided) Not Always Offered

This tour is not always offered. Please call the visitor center at 270-758-2180 on the day of your visit to check its availability. This tour is typically offered Memorial Day to Labor day.

There is a fee for this tour. When tickets are sold, the time on the tickets will be the last time you can enter the cave. This tour has designated multiple hours that you can enter the cave, between the time you bought the ticket and the last time being the one displayed on your ticket. Please do not wait until the last minute to use the ticket. Many people visiting Mammoth Cave ask, “May we visit the cave without a guided tour?” The answer is yes! This self-guided tour requires a ticket, and proceeds into the Historic Entrance. Focusing on early history and prehistory of the cave, this section of cave houses many great artifacts. This tour is ideal for people wanting to move at their own pace or are looking for a cave experience without much time commitment. This tour is the self-guided version of the guided Mammoth Passage Tour. Includes part of the Historic Tour and all of the Mammoth Passage Tour routes. Please Note:  Advance tickets are not available. Duration:  0.5 hours Distance:  0.75 miles (1.2 km) Total Stairs:  135 Difficulty:  Easy Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time: Unlimited Fees:  $12 Adults, $9 Youth, $6 Senior Pass Holder, $6 Access Pass Holder.

Frozen Niagara Tour

The naturally decorated Frozen Niagara section remains one of the most famous at Mammoth Cave, and serves as the last stop for a variety of cave tours. While many tours require long hikes and numerous stairs to reach this point, this short tour offers a chance to visit this area. This tour is ideal for anyone with difficulty walking long distances or negotiating stairs. This tour requires a short bus ride to and from the visitor center to the cave entrance. This section of cave is seen in its entirety on the Domes and Dripstones, Grand Avenue, Introduction to Caving and Wild Cave Tours. Duration:  1.25 hours Distance:  0.25 miles (0.4 km) Total Stairs:  64, plus an optional 98 Difficulty:  Easy Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  34 Fees:  $26 Adults, $22 Youth, $13 Senior Pass Holder, $13 Access Pass Holder.

Domes & Dripstones Tour

This classic tour visits areas of Mammoth Cave that have been used for nearly 100 years. This tour begins in a sinkhole, passes through huge domes, amazing breakdown, and ends in the dripstone section known as Frozen Niagara. Please note that this tour ascends and descends hundreds of stairs and several steep inclines, which can be difficult for many visitors, as there are no alternative routes. Focusing on the natural formation of the cave, this tour is ideal for people interested in science and wanting to see stalactites and stalagmites. This tour requires a short bus ride to and from the visitor center to the cave entrance. This tour includes the entire Frozen Niagara Tour route and a small portion of the Grand Avenue Tour route. Duration:  2 hours Distance:  0.75 miles (1.2 km) Total Stairs:  640 , including 280 on the initial staircase descent and an optional 96 Difficulty:  Difficult Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  110 Fees:  $30 Adults, $25 Youth, $15 Senior Pass Holder, $15 Access Pass Holder.

Historic Tour

This classic Mammoth Cave Tour visits many of the historic areas that originally made Mammoth Cave famous. Going through tunnels that humans have used for thousands of years, this tour not only explores huge rooms that gave Mammoth Cave its name, but also descends to much tighter places deep inside the cave. Please note that this tour ascends and descends hundreds of stairs and several steep inclines, which can be difficult for many visitors, as there are no alternative routes. This tour is ideal for people with an interest in history and a sense of adventure.   Portions of this tour are also seen on the Violet City Lantern, Star Chamber and Gothic Avenue Tours. It is seen in its entirety on the River Styx Tour. Duration:  2 hours Distance:  2 miles (3.2 km) Total Stairs:  540, including 155 at Mammoth Dome Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  Yes Tickets available for each tour time:  110 Fees:  $24 Adults, $18 Youth, $12 Senior Pass Holder, $12 Access Pass Holder.

Grand Avenue Tour

At 4 hours long, this lengthy tour explores the geologic diversity of what Mammoth Cave has to offer. Going through slot canyons, tubular passageways, tall canyons, and tunnels sparkled with gypsum. This tour also encounters hundreds of steps and ascends and descends many tall, incredibly steep hills.  Covering a wide variety of the history and geology of Mammoth Cave, this tour is ideal for those wishing for a lengthy, half-day hike inside of the cave.  This tour requires a short bus ride to and from the visitor center to the cave entrance. This tour includes the entire Frozen Niagara Tour route and all of the Domes and Dripstones Tour except for the 280 stairs descending the vertical shafts at the entrance. Duration:  4 hours Distance:  4 miles (6.4 km) Total Stairs:  1521 plus an optional 96 Difficulty:  Strenuous Ages:  6 years and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  Yes Tickets available for each tour time:  78 Fees:  $42 Adults, $34 Youth, $21 Senior Pass Holder, $21 Access Pass Holder.

Gothic Avenue Tour

Gothic Avenue was named because of its unusual rock formations resembling Gothic architecture, and was the site of some of the earliest 19th century tourism. Early visitors left behind signatures, artifacts, and monuments in this area of the cave, which also features stalactites and stalagmites. This tour focuses on 1800s tourism and uses of Mammoth Cave, and is ideal for people with a high interest in history. Portions of this tour are also seen on the Star Chamber, Historic and Violet City Lantern Tours. Duration:  2 hours Distance:  1.7 miles (2.7 km) Total Stairs:  170 Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  40 Fees:  $23 Adults, $19 Youth, $11.50 Senior Pass Holder, $11.50 Access Pass Holder.  

Extended Historic Tour

Enjoy this Historic Tour with a bonus side trip to one of the sites of the famous 1840s Mammoth Cave experiment to treat consumption. This tour is ideal for people who want a Historic Tour and have a little extra time to spend in the cave. Portions of this tour are also seen on the Violet City Lantern, Star Chamber and Gothic Avenue Tours. Duration:  2.25 hours Distance:  2 miles (3.2 km) Total Stairs:  540, including 155 at Mammoth Dome Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  Yes Tickets available for each tour time:  60 Fees:  $27 Adults, $21 Youth, $13.50 Senior Pass Holder, $13.50 Access Pass Holder.

Great Onyx Lantern Tour

A beautiful cave in its own right, Great Onyx Cave houses an abundance of beautiful geologic formations that sparkle in the lantern light of this tour. Visitors on this tour can see many stalactites, stalagmites, gypsum crystals, and helictites. This cave was also the site of very important cultural history in the early days of Kentucky cave tourism. This tour is ideal for people with an interest in cave tourism history and unusual rock formations. Please note: this tour is in Great Onyx Cave, which is separate from Mammoth Cave.   This tour requires a short bus ride to and from the visitor center to the cave entrance. Please Note:  This cave is toured within Mammoth Cave National Park, but is not known to connect with the Mammoth Cave System. Duration:  2.25 hours Distance:  1 miles (1.6 km) Total Stairs:  82 Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  6 years and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  38 Fees:  $31 Adults, $26 Youth, $15.50 Senior Pass Holder, $15.50 Access Pass Holder.

Violet City Lantern Tour

A truly historic way to experience Mammoth Cave, this tour travels exclusively by lantern light. At three hours long, this tour winds through the history and prehistory of Mammoth Cave as you wander through huge, broad tunnels. This tour climbs and descends many incredibly steep hills on historic dirt trails as you experience the cave in the light of the earliest explorers. This tour is ideal for visitors who like to hike and are wanting a unique way to experience the cave.   This tour requires a short bus ride back to the visitor center from the cave exit. Portions of this tour are also seen on the Historic, River Styx and Mammoth Passage Tours. Only visitors age 16 and over may carry lanterns. Be prepared, the rugged nature of this tour possesses steep hills, low lighting, uneven terrain and no handrail or electric lighting infrastructure. To preserve the nostalgic nature of this tour, the use of flashlights is prohibited. Duration:  3 hours Distance:  3 miles (4.8 km) Total Stairs:  200 and numerous hills with no handrails. Difficulty:  Difficult Ages:  6 years and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  38 Fees:  $32 Adults, $27 Youth, $16 Senior Pass Holder, $16 Access Pass Holder.

Star Chamber Lantern Tour

An evening tour in Mammoth Cave by lantern light, this tour winds its way to historic Star Chamber. Described as more of an experience tour than a sightseeing tour, the Star Chamber Tour explores historic sections of the cave in the lighting of the earliest explorers, emerging from the cave in late evening. Focusing on early history of Mammoth Cave, this tour includes a trip into Gothic Avenue. This tour is ideal for visitors wanting a unique way to experience the cave and its history. Portions of this tour are also seen on the Historic, River Styx and Gothic Avenue Tours. Only visitors age 16 and over may carry lanterns. To preserve the nostalgic atmosphere of the activity, there is no flashlight use permitted on this tour. Duration:  2.5 hours Distance:  2 miles (3.2 km) Total Stairs:  170 Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  6 years and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  40 Fees:  $30 Adults, $25 Youth, $15 Senior Pass Holder, $15 Access Pass Holder.

River Styx Cave Tour

Following along the Historic Tour Route, this tour focuses on the unique geologic and natural history of Mammoth Cave. Including a brief side trip to the underground water level, this tour takes an in-depth look at the millions of years of formation of Mammoth Cave. This tour is ideal for visitors with a high interest in geology.  Please use extra caution when visiting the river level. To access this section of the cave the tour leaves modern tour trail to uneven terrain that may be wet, muddy, and/or slick. The tour route travels next to bodies of water, some of which can be very deep depending on river levels. Viewing of this area will also be conducted with electric lanterns and not the modern lighting system on the rest of the route. This tour covers the entire Historic Tour route. Limited sections of the Star Chamber, Violet City Lantern and Mammoth Passage are also seen. Duration:  2.5 hours Distance:  2.5 miles (4 km) Total Stairs:  Approximately 600, including 155 at Mammoth Dome. Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  6 year and older. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  Yes Tickets available for each tour time: 40 Fees:  $26 Adults, $20 Youth, $13 Senior Pass Holder, $13 Access Pass Holder.

Cleaveland Avenue Tour - Not Currently Offered

For nearly two centuries, Cleaveland Avenue has attracted people from all over the world to see its sparkling walls of gypsum and unique tube-shaped passages. Evidence of early visitors can still be seen on the walls and ceiling as you travel Cleaveland Avenue to the Snowball Room. This tour is ideal for people looking for a unique part of Mammoth Cave and an interest in geology and history.  This tour enters the cave by descending nearly 231 stairs and exits the cave via an elevator. In the event the elevator is not available due to unforeseen circumstances, the tour extends its time 30 minutes, retraces the route, and ascends the near 231 stairs back out of the cave. This tour requires a short bus ride to and from the visitor center to the cave entrance. Includes all of the Accessible Tour route. Duration:  2 hours - (2½ hours if the elevator is unavailable) Distance:  1 miles (1.6 km) - (2 miles [3.2 km] if the elevator is unavailable) Total Stairs:  231 - (462 if the elevator is unavailable) Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  All ages. Youth under the age of 16 years, must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Restrooms:  Yes Tickets available for each tour time: 34 Fees:  $30 Adults, $24 Youth, $15 Senior Pass Holder, $15 Access Pass Holder.  

Wondering Woods Tour - Not Currently Offered

Take a leisurely bus ride with a ranger across the park landscape and learn about the communities and people that were once here. After a short bus ride, enjoy a hike in the Tranquil Valley of Wondering Woods. At the end of the hike, a short cave tour awaits you where you'll be surrounded by beautiful cave formation! This tour requires a short bus ride to and from the visitor center to the cave entrance. Please Note:  This cave is toured within Mammoth Cave National Park, but is not known to connect with the Mammoth Cave System. Duration:  1.5 hours Distance:  1 miles (1.6 km) Total Stairs:  194 includes 54 being optional Difficulty:  Moderate Ages:  All Ages Restrooms:  No Tickets available for each tour time:  30 Fees:  $26 Adults, $22 Youth, $13 Senior Pass Holder, $13 Access Pass Holder.

Wild Cave Tour -  Not Currently Offered

Introduction to caving - not currently offered, trog tour - not currently offered, wild cave and introduction to caving crawling tour requirements.

Boot tread must be a minimum of 1/4 inch in depth, and boot height must be sturdy and cover the ankle bone completely. You will not be able to participate if your footwear does not meet safety requirements. There will be no refunds or ticket exchanges for not having the proper footwear.

Learn more about the special requirements for crawling tours in the informational video below.

Embed video.

The Willd Cave and Introduction to Caving Tours are the most extreme cave tours offered at Mammoth Cave National Park. Learn what to expect and what to wear for these challenging crawling adventures.

Tour Route Photo Galleries

2 hours | 2 miles (3.2 km) | 540 stairs

2.25 hours | 2 miles (3.2 km) | 540 stairs

2.5 hours | 2.5 miles (4 km) | 600 stairs

2 hours | 1 miles (1.6 km) | 160 stairs

1.25 hours | 0.75 miles (1.2 km) | 135 stairs

0.5 hours | 0.75 miles (1.2 km) | 130 stairs

1.25 hours | 0.25 miles (0.4 km) | 64 stairs, optional 98 stairs

2 hours | 0.75 miles (1.2 km) | 638 stairs

1.5 hours | 1 mile (1.6km) | 140 stairs, optional 54

2.25 hours | 1 mile (1.6 km) | 82 stairs

2 hours | 1/2 mile (0.8 km)

3.5 hours | 1 mile | 300 stairs

2 hours 45 minutes | 1 1/2 miles | 200 stairs

Other Cave Tours

Mammoth Cave offers numerous cave tours throughout the year. The selection of tours changes seasonally and with staffing availability. You can read descriptions and learn more about these other cave tours before planning your trip to the park. Check back with our cave tour schedule or park calendar to see future offerings of these other cave tours.

Beyond the Cave

Park footer, contact info, mailing address:.

P.O. Box 7 Mammoth Cave, KY 42259-0007

270 758-2180

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