Stump Cross Caverns

An extensive series of natural limestone caverns located at Greenhow Hill near Pateley Bridge, these Show Caves allow a window into the fantastical world that lies beneath our feet, which is normally only explored by those whose work or pastimes take them into those hidden depths. Despite the dangers normally associated with the exploration of deep winding cave systems, Stump Cross can safely accommodate everyone from the smallest tyke in a lightweight stroller to a reasonably spry Granny with her walking-stick. Safety helmets are provided just in case the brain cavity meets the stone ceiling in some of the tighter sections.

The cave system is far more extensive than the sections which have been opened for public viewing, but the “safe” system is still large and continues to be developed. The section most recently opened to the public (in 2000) was the Reindeer Cavern, which perhaps gives the best impression of how the Caverns must have appeared to the first explorers in its depths.

Many of the rock formations have been given whimsical or descriptive names such as “The Sleeping Cat”, which can be found in the area known as “The Cathedral”. This area also contains a fine example of a flowstone deposit that is known as “The Organ”.

One area is known as “The Wolverine Cave”, not because of its wonderful rock formations, but because of the many bones that were found in this cavern when it was originally excavated. These included not only wolverine bones, but those of bison, wolf, and reindeer.

The above-ground building that marks the entrance to the caverns contains washrooms, an amazingly tasteful gift shop, and an attractive and well-run cafe that makes this a pleasant stop on a drive, even if you never descend into the depths. The cafe is also a wonderful place to recover from your visit to the world beneath, as well as a comfortable place to leave Granny if she didn’t feel up to the exploration. No dogs allowed on the site.

The caverns were first discovered in 1860 by the Newbould brothers, originally from Derbyshire. Whilst working in the area as lead miners, they broke through into a stunning cave passage decorated with an incredible amount of stalactites and stalagmites. Realizing the potential of what they had found, William Newbould approached local landowner Thomas Yorke, and leased the cave to show it as a tourist attraction in 1863.

Admission:
Adults - £6.00
Children (4-13) - £3.95
Under 4's - free

Links: http://www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk

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