Stump Cross Caverns
Explore 300-million-year-old caves in the Yorkshire Dales, featuring stunning formations, UV tours, and fun family activities like geode cracking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Stump Cross Caverns
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 300-million-year-old caves in the Yorkshire Dales, featuring stunning formations, UV tours, and fun family activities like geode cracking.
"Such an incredible and unique experience! We loved the caves - they are breathtaking."
Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Uneven surfaces and damp conditions require good grip. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Cave Formations
Main Cavern System
Marvel at millions of years of geological history with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Magical UV Experience
Designated Cavern Sections
See the caves in a whole new light with a UV torch, revealing hidden wonders.
Geode Cracking & Gem Panning
Activity Area
Engage in hands-on fun by cracking open geodes and panning for precious gems.
Fossil Hunting
Activity Area
Uncover ancient fossils and learn about prehistoric life in an interactive dig.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for a Smooth Adventure
Prepare for Tight Spaces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during busy periods.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Uneven surfaces and damp conditions require good grip. :athletic_shoe:
Dress in Layers
Cave temperatures are cool year-round. :shirt:
Bring a Camera
Capture the stunning formations and unique experiences. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during busy periods.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Uneven surfaces and damp conditions require good grip. :athletic_shoe:
Dress in Layers
Cave temperatures are cool year-round. :shirt:
Bring a Camera
Capture the stunning formations and unique experiences. :camerawithflash:
Check Public Transport
Plan your journey carefully if relying on public transport. :bus:
Kid-Friendly Activities
Geode cracking and gem panning are huge hits with children. :gem:
UV Torch Fun
The UV experience adds a magical element to the cave tour. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stump Cross Caverns for its breathtaking geological formations and unique underground experience, particularly highlighting the magical UV torch tour and engaging family activities like geode cracking. The staff are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a positive overall visit. While the caves are a hit across all ages, some visitors note that certain passages can be quite tight, requiring bending or ducking.
"Such an incredible and unique experience! We loved the caves - they are breathtaking.
Lovely little caffe and a great gift shop too! The staff are great and helpful.
Definitely plan in advance how you will get here - if you are relying on public transport it would be best to sort that out first before booking!
Great for an array of ages although some spaces can be quite tight and you have to bend over quite a bit (I’m about 5’5) - so that is just something to keep in mind. However for all who are fit and able, I highly recommend a visit :)"
Courtney Davison
"First time visiting Stump Cross Caverns and we absolutely loved it. The caves, especially under the UV torch looked so magical. Such a rare and amazing experience. Visited with my husband, 3 year old son & 1 year old daughter and they were all equally amazed. The staff were very nice, helpful and friendly, especially Dave. Would highly recommend. We are already planning our next family day out to visit again !"
Hasina Bismilla
"We visited today with our 4 year old boys. What a fantastic experience! We have loved it all. We ventured in to the caves first and due to timing we managed the first half with the lights on then the walk back was in the dark with the UV torch. The kids loved it.
The cafe offers great food at really reasonable prices. The staff here are so polite and pleasant and they really engaged with the children. We took part in cracking open a Geode and also panned for gems. We will absolutely return here! High recommend it"
Laura Penman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stump Cross Caverns are located on Greenhow Hill in the Yorkshire Dales. If driving, follow signs from Pateley Bridge. For public transport, it's advisable to check local bus routes in advance as services can be infrequent.
Yes, there is ample parking available on-site. Many visitors also use it as a convenient overnight parking spot for campervans for a small fee, often with a discount on attraction tickets.
While possible, visiting without a car requires careful planning of public transport routes, which can be limited in the Yorkshire Dales. It's best to research bus schedules thoroughly beforehand.
The most scenic route often involves driving through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. From the south, you might approach via Harrogate and then Pateley Bridge.
Yes, the surrounding Yorkshire Dales offer numerous walking trails, including popular routes to Simon's Seat, and charming villages like Pateley Bridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, and it's recommended to check the official Stump Cross Caverns website for the most up-to-date pricing for adults, children, and family packages. Booking online in advance is often advised.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Stump Cross Caverns website for the most accurate and current opening times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for groups, families, or those staying overnight in campervans. Check the website or inquire directly for any special offers.
Admission typically includes access to the main cave tour. Additional activities like geode cracking or gem panning may incur extra charges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave tour involves walking through ancient limestone passages, with some areas requiring you to duck or bend. You'll see impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and can opt for a UV torch experience. +1
Yes, Stump Cross Caverns is very family-friendly. Young children are often amazed by the caves, and activities like geode cracking and fossil hunting are particularly popular.
Cosmic Adventures are special events, often held in autumn, where visitors can learn about astronomy and the night sky, with activities like making your own planet.
Photography is generally permitted inside the caves, but be mindful of other visitors and the delicate cave environment. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas.
The main cave experience is self-guided, but staff are available to answer questions and provide information. Special workshops or events might have guided elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a lovely cafe on-site offering great food at reasonable prices, including afternoon tea options.
The cafe typically serves a range of meals, snacks, and drinks, often including popular choices like sandwiches, cakes, and full meals.
While specific menus can change, most cafes in tourist attractions aim to cater to various dietary needs. It's best to check with the cafe directly or look for menu information on their website.
There may be designated picnic areas, or you might be able to enjoy your own food in the cafe or outdoor seating areas, depending on their policies.
Yes, afternoon tea is a popular choice for visitors looking to relax after exploring the caves, often praised for its quality and value.
📸 📸 Photography
The cave formations themselves, especially under UV light, offer unique photographic opportunities. The surrounding Yorkshire Dales also provide stunning scenic backdrops. +1
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging cave formations. It's advisable to check with staff upon arrival.
Flash photography can sometimes disturb the natural environment or other visitors. It's best to use natural light or a camera with good low-light performance, or ask staff if flash is permitted.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive cave formations. A smartphone with a good night mode can also work well.
The UV experience is a highlight for photos, as are the intricate details of the stalactites and stalagmites. The entrance area also offers views of the Yorkshire Dales. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The UV torch experience adds a magical element that captivates kids. 💑 Couples & Adventurers
🚶 Budget Travelers & Campervan Enthusiasts
📚 Educational & Curious Minds
The 'Cosmic Adventures' program further expands the learning opportunities into astronomy. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Caves
The cave tour is largely self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, staff are on hand to provide information and ensure safety. For an added layer of magic, opt for the UV torch experience, which illuminates the cave walls with an otherworldly glow, revealing hidden mineral deposits and textures.
It's important to be prepared for the physical aspects of the cave exploration. Some passages are narrow and require bending or even crawling, so wearing comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential.
Family Fun and Educational Activities
Another popular activity is gem panning, where you can sift through sand and water to find a variety of precious stones and minerals.
The 'Cosmic Adventures' program, held at specific times, offers a unique opportunity for young astronomers to learn about planets and space, even creating their own celestial models to take home.
These activities are designed to be both entertaining and educational, making Stump Cross Caverns a memorable day out for the whole family. Beyond the Caves: Amenities and Surroundings
The gift shop provides a range of souvenirs, including local crafts, geological items, and mementos related to the caverns.
For those traveling in campervans, Stump Cross Caverns offers an excellent overnight parking option for a small fee, often with a discount on attraction tickets, making it a convenient base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales. The location in the Yorkshire Dales National Park means that the surrounding landscape is breathtaking. Visitors can combine their trip to the caverns with scenic walks, such as the popular hike to Simon's Seat, offering stunning views of the countryside.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit