The Lake District isn’t just about beautiful lakes and stunning hills. It’s also home to some stunning caves! From the spacious Rydal Cave to the spectacular Cathedral Cave, Lake District caves glimpse into a secret underground world. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, exploring these caves is a unique way to experience the Lake District. Come along as we take you through the must-see caves in this beautiful part of the UK.
Historical and Geological Background of Lake District Caves
The Lake District caves are natural wonders shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years. The Lake District is predominantly created of ancient sedimentary rocks, including limestone, which is highly susceptible to erosion. Water from rain and melting glaciers seeped into the cracks of these rocks, gradually dissolving the limestone and creating vast underground chambers.
The Lake District caves hold a rich history and human activity. These underground spaces have been used by humans for various purposes throughout the ages, from ancient times to more recent history. Archaeological evidence suggests that some of these caves were used as shelters by early humans. Tools, pottery, and other artefacts found in and around the caves indicate that our ancestors lived within these caves.
In more recent centuries, the Lake District caves and quarries played a significant role in the region’s mining industry. Minerals such as slate, copper, and lead were extracted from these caves, contributing to the local economy and shaping the landscape. The remains of old mining equipment and the scars of quarrying activities can still be seen.
Reasons to Visit the Lake District Caves
Natural beauty: The Lake District caves are adorned with remarkable rock formations that create a stunning landscape. Exploring these caves provides a sense of adventure and discovery. Whether you’re navigating through narrow passages, standing in awe of vast underground chambers, or uncovering hidden tunnels, all of this is an unforgettable experience.
Breathtaking scenery and adventure: Many of Lake District caves are nestled in picturesque locations, surrounded by lush greenery, lakes, and rugged mountains. Visiting the caves often involves using hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks. The journey to these caves often involves scenic hikes that offer panoramic views of the Lake District’s stunning landscapes.
Step Back in Time: Each cave tells a story of the region’s geological past and human history. From ancient habitation sites to remains of mining activities, visiting these caves offers a connection to the past, allowing you to step back in time and imagine life in different eras.
Local Folklore: The Lake District caves are steeped in local myths and legends, adding an element of mystery and intrigue. Stories of hidden treasures, ghostly apparitions, and legendary figures enhance the experience.
Peaceful Retreat: Many of the Lake District caves are located in serene, less-visited areas, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The quiet and calm of these natural sanctuaries offer a chance to unwind, reflect, and connect with nature.
Educational Opportunities: Visiting the Lake District caves can be an educational adventure for families. Children and adults can learn about geology, history, and local folklore, making it a fun and informative outing for all ages.
Unique Photo Opportunities: The Lake District caves and their surroundings provide endless opportunities for photography. The light and shadow within the caves, combined with the stunning outdoor scenery, allow for capturing unique and captivating images.
Best Times to Visit Lake District Caves
Early Morning or Late Afternoon: We recommend visiting the caves either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and experience the caves in a quieter setting. The light during these times also enhances the natural beauty of the caves.
Off-Season Visits: The Lake District can be very busy during the peak tourist season (June to August). Visiting in the other seasons, such as late spring (April to May) or early autumn (September to October), not only offers more solitude but also showcases the region in different hues, with blooming wildflowers or stunning colours in autumn.
10 Amazing Caves to Explore in Lake District
Rydal Cave
Rydal Cave is situated on Loughrigg Fell, just a short distance from the charming village of Rydal. This is one of the most famous Lake District Caves. To reach the Rydal cave, you can start from the village and follow a well-marked trail that winds through picturesque woodlands and open fields. The hike is relatively gentle, making it accessible to most travellers, including families.
Rydal Cave is known for its large, open interior and tranquil setting. The cave’s entrance is wide and inviting, leading into a spacious chamber that feels almost cathedral-like. The floor of the Rydal cave is often covered with shallow pools of water, creating beautiful reflections of the cave walls and ceiling.
The hike to Rydal Cave offers spectacular views of Rydal Water and the surrounding fells, making it a rewarding journey for those who love nature. Once inside the cave, you can explore the main chamber and enjoy the serene atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is just right. For those looking to extend their adventure, the nearby trails around Rydal Water provide additional opportunities for hiking and scenic walks.
TIP: This is a popular spot among tourists. So arrive either very early morning or late afternoon. An ideal time to visit the Rydal Cave is on a sunny day in winter, you will most likely have the cave for yourself.
Parking near Rydal Cave: Pelter Bridge Car Park or Rydal Water Car Park – parking is quite expensive near Rydal Lake. Unless you plan to do some additional hikes in the area, you will only need up to 2 hours to get to the cave and back.
Public transport: You can get here by bus 555 from Ambleside, Windermere, Kendal or Keswick.
Cathedral Cave (Cathedral Quarry)
Cathedral Quarry, also known as Cathedral Cave, is located near the village of Little Langdale. The Cathedral Cave is accessible via a lovely walk from a car park. The path to the cave is well-marked and takes you through picturesque countryside, past old stone walls, streams and bridges.
The highlight of Cathedral Cave is its stunning central chamber, which features an impressive 40-foot high ceiling that gives the cave its name. The chamber is illuminated by a window-like opening, allowing sunlight to pour in and create a mesmerising light and shadows. The cave’s walls are adorned with colourful mineral deposits and intriguing rock formations.
Exploring Cathedral Cave is a magical experience, with plenty of tunnels and smaller chambers to discover. The main chamber is a popular spot for photographers, thanks to its unique lighting and architectural magnificence.
TIP: A short walk from the caves is a stunning Slater Bridge, an ancient packhorse bridge that adds that fairytale feel to the area.
Parking is a bit tough. You might find some small lay-by near the tiny village of Little Langdale. However, we recommend parking at the car park or the Tilberthwaite car park and then walk from there. It’s an enjoyable and easy walk, and you don’t need to worry about getting fined (which you might get at Little Langdale).
It’s not easy to get here by public transport, but it’s doable. You can take bus number 516 from Kendal, Windermere or Ambleside to Elterwater. From here is a trail that leads to Cathedral Cave. It’s under 1 hour one way from the bus stop at Elterwater to the Cathedral cave.
Skull Cave at Hodge Close Quarry
Hodge Close Quarry is situated near the village of Coniston. Hodge Close Quarry is known for its dramatic vertical walls and deep, emerald-green water. The quarry’s sheer size and the contrast between the rugged rock and the serene water below create a breathtaking scene. The exposed rock faces reveal layers of geological history, adding to the site’s intrigue.
While the Hodge Close Quarry is a popular spot for rock climbing and diving, there are some caves and tunnels within the quarry that can be explored. We recommend seeing the Hodge Close Quarry from above, as it’s a beautiful view, and then heading below to explore the Skull Cave.
To get to the Skull Cave, continue heading down the road from the parking space to Hodge Close Cottage. Pass the cottage, turn right to the ‘High Oxen Fell’, and walk until you’ll see a small hut on your left. Opposite is a trail going downhill, which leads to the Hodge Close Quarry and Skull Cave.
Skull Cave gets its name from the skull-like appearance of its entrance, which can be seen from certain angles within the quarry. The cave is relatively small, with a dark, narrow passage leading into the hillside.
The Hodge Close Quarry is accessible by car, with a parking area nearby. From the car park, a short walk leads you to the edge of the quarry, where stunning views await.
It’s not easy to get here by public transport, but it’s doable. You can take bus number 516 from Kendal, Windermere or Ambleside to Elterwater. From here is a trail that leads to the quarry. It’s about 1 hour one-way from the bus stop at Elterwater to the quarry.
Buttermere Tunnel
The Buttermere Tunnel is situated in the picturesque Buttermere Valley. This tunnel can be found along the shoreline of Buttermere Lake, near the village of Buttermere. To reach the tunnel, you can start from the village and follow the circular walking route around the lake. The tunnel is located on the eastern side of Buttermere, along a scenic path that hugs the water’s edge.
The Buttermere Tunnel is not a natural and typical of the Lake District caves but a man-made tunnel carved through the rock to facilitate easier access along the lakeside path. Despite its artificial origins, the tunnel blends into the rugged landscape, adding a sense of adventure to the otherwise tranquil walk. The tunnel is relatively short, with a rough, rocky ceiling and walls that create an atmospheric passageway. The views from either end of the tunnel are spectacular.
You can park your car in Buttermere, where free and some paid parking options are available. You can get to Butermere by public transport. The bus 77C goes here from and to Keswick.
Millican Dalton’s Cave
Millican Dalton’s Cave is located in the picturesque Borrowdale Valley. The cave is located on the eastern side of Castle Crag, a hill with stunning views. To reach Millican Dalton’s Cave, you start a walk from the village of Rosthwaite and follow the path leading towards Castle Crag and the cave.
Millican Dalton’s Cave is a pair of interlinked caves that were once the home of Millican Dalton, an eccentric adventurer known as the Professor of Adventure. Visiting Millican Dalton’s Cave is a fascinating journey into the past, offering a unique peek into the life of an individual who chose to live outside societal norms.
Park your car at a paid Rosthwaite National Trust Car park. You can also get here by bus number 78 or 77C from Keswick.
TIP: Castle Crag itself is worth a climb, offering panoramic views of the valley and beyond.
Priest’s Hole Cave
Priest’s Hole Cave is located on the northeastern face of Dove Crag, one of the peaks in the Fairfield Group. The cave is situated at an elevation, offering stunning views over the surrounding fells and valleys. To reach Priest’s Hole Cave, start your journey in Hartsop and follow the trail that leads up to Dove Crag. The hike to the cave is quite challenging and involves a steep ascent.
Priest’s Hole Cave is a natural cave with a fascinating history. It is said to have been used as a hiding place by Catholic priests during the Reformation when they were being persecuted. The cave itself is a shallow shelter with a rocky floor and a low, overhanging ceiling that provides ample protection from the elements. Its elevated position on Dove Crag offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Lake District, making it a rewarding destination for those who undertake the challenging hike.
TIP: For those seeking an adventurous overnight experience, Priest’s Hole Cave can be used as a wild camping spot. The cave provides a basic shelter, and the remote location ensures a peaceful and solitary camping experience.
Parking is available near the village of Hartsop. It is small so arrive early.
You can get here by public transport, take bus number 508 from Windermere, stop: Cow Bridge.
Lacy’s Caves
Lacy’s Caves are located on the banks of the River Eden, near the village of Little Salkeld in Cumbria, within the Eden Valley region, not far away from Penrith. The caves are accessible by a scenic riverside walk that begins in the village. To reach the caves, start from Little Salkeld and follow the well-marked path along the River Eden. The walk to the caves is approximately 1.5 miles.
Lacy’s Caves are a series of five chambers that were artificially carved out of the sandstone cliffs by Colonel Samuel Lacy in the 18th century. The caves were created as a folly, intended for use as a picturesque retreat and a place to entertain guests. The chambers are interconnected and feature arched doorways and windows that overlook the River Eden. The caves are surrounded by lush woodlands and offer beautiful views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
You can park in the village of Little Salkeld, or get here by public transport, bus number 139 from Penrith.
Honister Slate Caves
The Honister Slate Caves are located at Honister Pass in the heart of the Lake District, near the village of Seatoller. Honister Pass is a stunning drive, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys as you approach the slate mine.
Honister Slate Caves are part of the historic Honister Slate Mine, which has been in operation since the 18th century. The caves are a network of underground tunnels and chambers where Westmorland green slate has been extracted for centuries. The mine is still operational today, producing high-quality slate, but also serving as a unique tourist attraction.
The caves provide a fascinating peek into the industrial heritage of the Lake District, showcasing traditional mining techniques and the hard work of the miners. Honister Slate Mine offers guided tours of the slate caves, providing you with an in-depth look at the history and operations of the mine.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Honister Slate Mine offers Via Ferrata experiences that combine caving with climbing. The Via Ferrata routes follow the original miners’ paths along the cliffs, equipped with iron rungs and safety cables. Honister Slate Mine also offers indoor climbing and abseiling within the slate caves and craft workshops where you can try your hand at traditional slate splitting and crafting.
There is a big car park directly at the Honister Slate Mine and you can get here by public transport too, you can get here by bus 77A from Keswick.
Pike O’Stickle Cave
Pike O’Stickle is one of the peaks in the Langdale Pikes range, located in the Great Langdale Valley. The cave on Pike O’Stickle is situated high on the slopes of this peak. The cave on Pike O’Stickle is famous for being an ancient site where Stone Age people quarried and fashioned stone axes. The ascent to Pike O’Stickle offers breathtaking views over the Great Langdale Valley and the surrounding peaks. The cave itself is perched in a dramatic and rugged location.
The route to the cave is challenging and involves a steep climb, but it is rewarding for those interested in archaeology and stunning landscapes.
The hike begins from the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, where there is parking available. Follow the well-marked paths that lead up to Stickle Tarn. From there, a steep and rocky path ascends to the summit of Pike O’Stickle. While the cave itself is not extensive, its historical significance makes it a fascinating destination.
There is a paid car park at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel.
You can get here by bus number 516 from Kendal, Windermere or Ambleside.
Caves of nearby west of Yorkshire Dales
With only around a 30-minute drive from the Lake District are the stunning caves of Yorkshire Dales. As these are so close to the Lake District, we have to include them in this article. If you plan to visit Lake District caves, you must include the Yorkshire Dales Caves, too. They are all located very close to each other, so it makes sense to spend one day in this area to explore them all.
Yordas Cave
Yordas Cave is renowned for its impressive main chamber, which measures approximately 55 metres (180 feet) in length and up to 15 metres (50 feet) in height. Inside the cave, there is a small waterfall, particularly active after rainfall. The cave features limestone formations, including stalactites and flowstones.
The walk to Yordas Cave is relatively short and follows a scenic route through Kingsdale Valley, which is known for its stunning limestone landscapes.
There is limited parking available near the cave. You can park along the side of the road near the entrance to the path leading to the cave.
Great Douk Cave
Great Douk Cave is known for its active stream passage, where water flows through the cave, creating a dynamic and interesting environment. The cave has a spacious entrance leading into a series of chambers and passages, making it accessible for beginners.
There is a small designated parking area near the cave.
White Scar Cave
White Scar Cave is the longest show cave in the UK, offering an extensive network of underground passages and chambers. The cave is known for its impressive formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. One of the highlights is the massive Battlefield Cavern.
The guided tour of White Scar Cave takes you along a well-lit pathway, through narrow tunnels, and into spacious chambers, including the Arum Lily and the Devil’s Tongue. The tour lasts approximately 80 minutes and covers about a mile (1.6 kilometres) of subterranean pathways.
TIP: The cave is a short drive from the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. The Ribblehead Viaduct, a stunning railway viaduct located nearby, is worth a visit.
Gaping Gill
Gaping Gill is one of the most famous and impressive cave systems in the UK. Gaping Gill is known for its massive main chamber, which is one of the largest underground chambers in Britain. The cave is also famous for Fell Beck, a stream that plunges 98 metres (322 feet) into the main chamber, creating one of the tallest unbroken waterfalls in the UK. Gaping Gill is part of a complex cave system with over 16 kilometres (10 miles) of passages.
Twice a year, during the Whitsun Bank Holiday and the August Bank Holiday, the Bradford Pothole Club and theCraven Pothole Club set up winch meets. These events allow members of the public to be lowered into the main chamber via a winch, providing a unique opportunity to experience the cave’s grandeur without the need for caving expertise.
The most common route to Gaping Gill starts from the village of Clapham. The hike follows a scenic path through Clapdale, passing Ingleborough Cave and Trow Gill, a picturesque limestone gorge.
Parking at Yorkshire Dales National Car Park, from here, you must walk to the cave.
Ingleborough Cave
The trail starts from the village of Clapham, following a well-maintained footpath that leads through woodlands and along the banks of Clapham Beck to reach the cave entrance. The walk from Clapham to Ingleborough Cave is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometres) and takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Ingleborough Cave is known for its stunning natural formations and impressive underground passages. The cave system features a series of spacious chambers and passageways adorned with a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and unique calcite formations. Highlights include the vast stalactite known as the Sword of Damocles, the delicate stalagmite columns, and the stunning flowstone known as the Devil’s Apron Strings. The cave also features an underground stream that adds to the atmospheric experience.
Ingleborough Cave offers guided tours that provide an in-depth exploration of its geological wonders. The tour lasts approximately 80 minutes and covers a distance of about half a mile (800 metres) underground.
Parking at Yorkshire Dales National Car Park, from here, you must walk to the cave. There is no direct parking next to the cave.
Final Thoughts & Tips from Us
While visiting the Lake District caves, don’t forget to also check out the Lake District waterfalls. There are so many beautiful spots with stunning forces and cascades, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings. But not just that, Lake District is home to some fascinating castles and historical sites and picturesque towns and villages. You absolutely shouldn’t miss them on your Lake District long or short trip.
