Treak Cliff Cavern
Buxton Rd., Castleton, England
Treak Cliff Cavern is credited with being one of the most beautiful caves in the UK, thanks to its large deposits of Blue John stone. This rare semi-precious mineral has been mined here since the mid-18th century, and travelers can take self-guided cavern tours and visit the museum to learn more about the beautiful rock and the caves.
The basics
Treak Cliff Cavern is estimated to be 330 million years old. On a tour, you can see stalactites and stalagmites, deposits of Blue John stone, clearly defined fossils in the ceilings, and even bats, spiders, and old mining equipment.
Tours of the cavern are self-guided via a smartphone app, and run for 45 minutes. You still need an entry ticket and an allocated time slot. Staff are also on-hand to assist. Since the cavern is a very popular attraction, it’s important to stick to your reserved time slot, and booking in advance is recommended.
Things to know before you go
The temperature in the cavern stays at around 50°F (10°C) year-round, so wear appropriate clothing.
Also wear sensible shoes, as the cavern floor is often wet and slippery.
The cavern is not wheelchair accessible, but travelers with mobility issues who are able to walk can be accommodated.
Get a discounted entry ticket by purchasing one online in advance.
How to get there
Treak Cliff Cavern is in the Peak District National Park, between Manchester and Sheffield. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Manchester and less from Sheffield. If you’re driving from either of those cities, head east or west along the A57 and turn south onto the A6013 at the Ladybower Reservoir, following the signs to Castleton. You can also reach the cavern by public bus from these cities, but it’s significantly slower than driving.
When to get there
The cavern is open daily from mid-morning to late afternoon, with a slightly earlier closing time between November and March. It’s closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day (December 25th and 26th). Stone-polishing activities are run during some school holidays, and places should be booked in advance.
About “the Devil’s Arse”
Treak Cliff Cavern is unique for its Blue John stone, but it’s not the only place in the Peak District where you can visit amazing caves. Nearby Peak Cavern, nicknamed the Devil’s Arse, is much wilder than Treak Cliff Cavern, but visitors can take guided tours. The entrance to the cave is the largest of its kind in the British Isles.
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