Speedwell Cavern
Explore an 18th-century lead mine via an underground boat tour, discovering a vast subterranean lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer school groups
Speedwell Cavern
Best Time
Fewer school groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an 18th-century lead mine via an underground boat tour, discovering a vast subterranean lake.
"A unique underground boat journey through a 200-year-old lead mine in the heart of the Peak District!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and get your preferred time slot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Steps can be wet and slippery; good grip shoes are essential for safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Underground Boat Journey
Flooded mine shaft
Glide through dark tunnels on a boat, exploring a 200-year-old lead mine and a vast subterranean lake.
Subterranean Lake
End of the boat tour
Marvel at the impressive scale of the flooded mine's central lake, a testament to its mining past.
Winnats Pass Views
Near the entrance
Enjoy breathtaking scenery from Winnats Pass, a dramatic limestone valley near the cavern.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Your Underground Adventure
Dress for the Depths
This ensures comfort and safety during your unique boat journey. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and get your preferred time slot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Steps can be wet and slippery; good grip shoes are essential for safety.
🧥 Bring Warm Layers
It's consistently chilly underground, so pack a jacket or jumper.
🚻 Toilet Facilities
Toilets are available for 50p (token system) near the gift shop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and get your preferred time slot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Steps can be wet and slippery; good grip shoes are essential for safety.
🧥 Bring Warm Layers
It's consistently chilly underground, so pack a jacket or jumper.
🚻 Toilet Facilities
Toilets are available for 50p (token system) near the gift shop.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available on-site, though charges may apply.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Speedwell Cavern offers a unique underground boat tour through a historic lead mine, praised for its knowledgeable guides and atmospheric journey. However, some visitors find the experience overpriced for the limited exploration, with criticisms regarding the visibility of the main cavern and additional charges for parking and toilets. +2
"Really great tour, and the guid was so knowledgeable. Book ahead so as not to be disappointed and to get a time slot you want, lovely gift shop, and although the sign says no public toilets, there are toilets for those who book on to a tour you pay 50p for a token to use the loo and return the token when finished, it's opposite the gift shop through a turnstile, I did not know this and went down to the village and back to use the loos there but it's down hill and about a 20 min walk down and a hard walk back up."
Ruth Carr
"Speedwell Cavern, near Castleton in the Peak District, is an old lead mine turned tourist attraction. Visitors explore underground passages by boat through a flooded mine shaft, offering a unique experience. The cavern features impressive rock formations and a fascinating mining history. It’s family-friendly and guided tours run regularly. The site is easily accessible and popular with visitors looking to combine adventure with education. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons."
Patrik Krizek
"This trip is a complete rip off. Hands down it is the worst ‘cave visit’ we have ever been on.
After telling 8 family members I’d found an exciting day out we paid in total £176.
we arrived at the carpark looking forward to our day out. Although this is advertised online I am still astounded that the cavern owners find it acceptable to charge £6 to park for visitors who book the tour. They ‘kindly’ reimburse each visitor £2.50 on arrival but then in the same transaction demand 50p per person each time someone wishes to use the toilet.
Never mind I thought, the tour will be worth it.
It isn’t, don’t waste your money.
You sit in a boat to be floated along a dark passageway unable to hear the tour guide tell you useless information.
At the far end of the tunnel I believed that there would be a cavern or cave to explore….
It turns out there is a very small opening with nothing to see. So you stand and look at nothing for 10 minutes and then get back in the same boat and take exactly the same journey out, I left the cavern not knowing any more information about its history than when I arrived.
Even at half the price the tour wouldn’t be worth the money.
My advice would be to visit the other showcases in the area. They can’t possibly be any worse value for money."
Gemma Richmond
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Speedwell Cavern is located at the foot of Winnats Pass, just a short drive or a scenic walk from Castleton village. Many visitors find it convenient to drive and park on-site.
Yes, there is a car park available at Speedwell Cavern. Be aware that additional parking charges may apply, though some visitors mention a partial reimbursement with tour tickets.
Absolutely! Speedwell Cavern is situated at the bottom of the stunning Winnats Pass. The walk from Castleton is beautiful, offering great views, but be prepared for the steps down into the cavern itself.
Winnats Pass is a dramatic limestone valley near Speedwell Cavern, known for its stunning scenery and empty roads, especially at sunrise. It's a popular spot for photographers and hikers.
While specific public transport routes can vary, Castleton is served by local bus services. From Castleton, you can then walk or take a short taxi ride to Speedwell Cavern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but one source mentions around £20.00 per person. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book in advance.
Yes, booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to guarantee your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Speedwell Cavern website for the most current operating times before your visit.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available for visitors who have booked a tour. You'll need a 50p token to use them, which can be obtained near the gift shop.
Speedwell Cavern offers a unique experience that can be fascinating for children. However, the boat ride is in narrow tunnels, and there are steps, so parental supervision is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour involves a boat ride through a 200-year-old lead mine, guided by knowledgeable staff who share the history of the mine and its features, including a large subterranean lake.
The underground boat tour typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, allowing time for the boat journey and exploration of the main cavern area.
Wear warm clothing as it's cold underground, and sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential due to the wet and potentially slippery steps and pathways.
The boat journey takes place in narrow tunnels, and some visitors may find it a bit claustrophobic. If you are severely claustrophobic, this might not be the best experience for you.
Speedwell Cavern was established in 1771 as an ambitious lead mine. It features an underground canal system used to transport ore and spoil by boat, offering a glimpse into 18th-century mining operations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Speedwell Cavern, but be mindful of the low light conditions and the movement of the boat. Ensure your camera is secure.
The underground boat journey itself, the subterranean lake, and the dramatic entrance at Winnats Pass offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, it is quite dark inside the caverns, as it's an underground mine. You may need to use a higher ISO or a tripod if you want to capture detailed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the boat journey is through narrow tunnels, which might be a concern for very young or anxious children. However, for most families, it's a memorable and educational outing that provides a different perspective on the Peak District's landscape and history. Booking in advance is a good idea to manage family schedules.
🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
After your underground adventure, consider a hike up to Mam Tor for panoramic views of the Peak District. The combination of subterranean exploration and above-ground trekking provides a well-rounded experience of the region's natural beauty and geological wonders.
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Underground Boat Experience
As you drift along the water, you'll witness the raw beauty of the subterranean world. The highlight for many is reaching the vast, flooded cavern, a testament to the ambitious engineering of the 18th century. The atmosphere is often described as eerie, atmospheric, and surprisingly peaceful, offering a stark contrast to the world above.
It's important to note that the boat ride occurs in narrow passages, and some visitors have mentioned it might not be suitable for those with severe claustrophobia. The experience is about immersion and history, rather than extensive exploration of large open caverns.
History of Speedwell Cavern
+1The mining operations continued intermittently for about 20 years. Over time, the mine flooded, creating the subterranean lake that visitors now explore by boat. This transformation from a working mine to a tourist attraction offers a tangible connection to the region's industrial heritage.
+1Learning about the history from the guides enhances the experience, providing context to the underground landscape and the lives of the people who worked there. It's a journey back in time, showcasing the ingenuity and hard work of past generations.
Exploring the Surroundings: Winnats Pass
Many visitors combine their trip to Speedwell Cavern with a walk or drive through Winnats Pass. The roads can be quieter than other popular Peak District spots, offering a more serene experience, especially during sunrise or sunset. The proximity of the pass to the cavern makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the area around Winnats Pass provides excellent hiking opportunities. The scenic beauty and the dramatic landscape make it a memorable part of any visit to the Castleton area.
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