8 must-see caves in the UK

There are a number of fantastic caves in the UK that are well worth visiting as part of a family holiday. Be inspired by the majesty, wonder and unusual formations of these caves and their spectacular features both inside and out. Many of these caves offer other attractions and things to do for families that make a fun and fascinating day out.

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1. Wookey Hole Caves

The Wookey Hole Caves located 2 miles from the city of Wells in Somerset are a fabulous series of limestone caves. Evidence found in the caves suggests that they have been used by humans since the Stone Age. You are guided through the caves by excellent tour guides who will tell you the story of how the Wookey Witch, believed to have caused all the wrong doing in the nearby village, was turned to stone by the Abbot of Glastonbury sent to exorcise her. You can see her petrified remains in a cavern known as ‘The Witch’s Kitchen’. The caves are the main attraction here but with your ticket you can see many other things at Wookey Hole such as the circus show many other exciting events suitable for kids. Open all year round, adult tickets are £18 and children are £12. It makes sense to book online to save 20% and to avoid disappointment as the attraction gets very busy.

2. Hellfire Caves

The Hellfire Caves located in High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire are man-made caverns made from chalk and flint and built by the notorious Sir Francis Dashwood in the 1700s. The caves became the location for meetings of his Hellfire Club, attended by prominent social and political people of the day. Extreme secrecy surrounded the club and rumours abounded of black magic, orgies and satanic rituals. The caves have become a sight of paranormal interest and are associated with a number of ghost stories. They extend 500 metres underground and visitors can enjoy a number of activities such as Ghost Tour weekends and face painting, fancy dress and ghost stories for the kids at various times of the year. Adult tickets are £5 and children are £4. Please bear in mind that car parking is limited around the caves so it is advised to plan ahead or take alternative transport.

3. Chislehurst Caves

Not too far from London in Chislehurst lie the Chislehurst Caves. These caves provide fun for all the family as you are guided through the labyrinth of tunnels by knowledgeable and entertaining staff who may tell a spooky story or two! Your kids will love holding up lanterns in the dark to reveal the fascinating history and stories of the cave’s past. Tickets are £6 for adults and £4 for children and the tour lasts approximately 45 minutes. There is no need to book your tour, just show up and enjoy this fantastic day out.

4. Cheddar Caves & Gorge

Take a trip to the popular Cheddar Caves and Gorge, where you can take a tour deep inside the caves to see a colourful labyrinth of stalactites and breath-taking views enhanced by effective lighting. You can also encounter Cheddar Man, Britain’s oldest known human skeleton. During Halloween the caves offer tours which tell spooky stories in the dark as well as other fun activities for the family. The caves are open every day except Christmas and you can book your tickets online to save 15%.

5. Castleton Caves

Castleton Caves is a wonderful attraction made up of 4 show caves that are hugely popular with tourists. The caves are named Blue John Cavern, Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern each with their own unique characteristics. Speedwell Cavern is especially fun if you have children with you as there is an underground water way where you can take a boat ride. Treak Cliff Cavern is known for its brilliantly formed stalagmites and stalactites. Each cave has its own entry fees and activities so visiting the website is advised for further information. There are also some great opportunities in Castleton for other outdoor activities such as walking, cycling and rock climbing.

6. Dan-yr-Ogof Cave

In Powys, South Wales you’ll find the Dan-yr-Ogof showcaves, also known as the National Showcaves Centre for Wales. This cave system, which is over 10 miles long, was first discovered by two brothers in 1912. The caves are considered one of the UK’s finest natural wonders and are an unforgettable experience! Interestingly, the bones of around 42 humans have been found in a chamber amongst the caves. Only a small part of this complex system is open to the public, the rest is a dedicated National Nature Reserve. Prices for adults are £13.75 and children are £8.50. The caves are usually decorated for Halloween and staff dress up in spooky costumes-a great fun for the kids!

7. Fingal’s Cave

An often overlooked attraction, Fingal’s Cave is a huge and unusual sea cave on the uninhabited island of Staff in the Inner Hebrides. It is owned by the National Trust and took its name from a poem written in the 18th Century by Scottish Poet James Macpherson. The cave leaves visitors in awe at its oddly formed hexagonal basalt columns that haven’t been found in any other sea cave. Visitors can explore deep inside the cave and be mesmerised by the 227 foot interior with a cathedral like arched roof, an extraordinary wonder of nature that will not be forgotten. There are a number of boat trips to the caves and other nearby islands the whole family can enjoy but due to the possibility of bad weather, taking much younger children isn’t advised.

8. White Scar Cave

One of the UK’s most scenic caves is located in Ingleton in Yorkshire. At White Scar you take a twisty 4 mile man-made footpath deep into this beautiful natural cave where you will witness breath-taking waterfalls, unusual rock formations and huge stalactites. This is the longest cave tour in Britain lasting around 80 minutes so bear that in mind if you are considering taking young children. The cave is open from 10am February to October and during weekends only in autumn and winter and a family ticket is about £23. Don’t miss Santa’s Grotto in the cave at Christmas time-great for the kids!

The UK is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world and make excellent day trips as part of a family holiday. For even more caving fun how about visiting the Clearwell Caves in Gloucestershire which have even been used as a filming location for TV shows such as Dr Who. You could also visit the Ingleborough Caves in Yorkshire or Kents Cavern in Devon where the kids will be kept entertained all day by the huge range of activities on offer. There are some great places to camp near to all the above caves so you can really make the most of your holiday.