Peak Cavern Castleton
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Peak Cavern Castleton

4.6
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Britain's largest cave entrance and discover ancient formations on an engaging guided tour, with optional underground boat trips nearby.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour

CrowdLow
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Peak Cavern Castleton

Peak Cavern Castleton

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Britain's largest cave entrance and discover ancient formations on an engaging guided tour, with optional underground boat trips nearby.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"A great tour of Peak Cavern, with guides who are funny, entertaining, and extremely knowledgeable!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot by booking online in advance, especially during busy periods.

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential for navigating the cave's uneven terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Devil's Arse Entrance

The Devil's Arse Entrance

Main Cavern Entrance

Marvel at Britain's largest natural cave entrance, an awe-inspiring sight that sets the stage for your underground adventure.

Instagram
Underground Boat Tour

Underground Boat Tour

Speedwell Cavern (nearby)

Experience a unique boat journey through the flooded passages of Speedwell Cavern, a truly memorable underground exploration.

TikTok
Fascinating Rock Formations

Fascinating Rock Formations

Throughout the Cavern

Discover ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations like the 'Fitch of Bacon' and 'Mary Queen of Scots' glow.

Reddit
Historic Rope Making Demo

Historic Rope Making Demo

Inside the Cavern

Learn about the traditional craft of rope making, a fascinating historical demonstration that adds an educational element to the tour.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Peak Cavern

Peak Cavern, also known as 'The Devil's Arse,' is a popular attraction. Booking tickets online is recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment and potential crowds. Instagram

Prepare for the Cave Environment

The cave can be damp and cool, so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for uneven surfaces. Some sections may require bending low, so be prepared for a bit of adventure! InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour
Crowd
Low
When
April - October
Why
Cavern is open daily
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (for events)
Why
Unique gig atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Day made 🥹🐮🫶🏻♥️ #thepeakdistrict #highlandcows #highlandcowsoftiktok #peakdistrict #peakdistrictnationalpark #peakdistrictwalks
@ellajoxx
68.4K likes • 686.6K views

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot by booking online in advance, especially during busy periods. Instagram

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential for navigating the cave's uneven terrain. Reddit

Come with me to find a hidden quarry in the peak district 😍 Wait till you see this place 😳 The views are incredible! But unfortunately the locals have advised me that it’s not safe to swim in just so people are aware and remember if you go to leave no trace and leave the area how you found it! 🙃 Hiking | Hiking | Adventures | Hike Save, Share & Follow for more of the best UK hiking locations 🤙🏼 #H...
@motivation2hike
64.6K likes • 774.1K views
One of the Seven Wonders of the Peak!Adventuring into The Devils Arse 💨 (Peak Cavern) and the underground boat journey at Speedwell Cavern. With rock formations of over 300 million years these are definitely worth checking out when visiting Castleton. @peak_cavern @speedwell_cavern - - - #devilsarse #peakcavern #speedwellcavern #castleton #meaksonthepeaks #devilsarsecavern #fypシ #boatjourney #c...
meaksonthepeaks
360 likes • 30.1K views

Dress for Cool Temperatures

Caves remain cool year-round; bring a light jacket or sweater. Reddit

Embrace the 'Devil's Arse'

Don't be put off by the nickname; it's a historical name for a natural wonder! Instagram

𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙈𝙊𝙎𝙎 𝘾𝙃𝘼𝙈𝘽𝙀𝙍 𝙏𝙍𝘼𝘿𝙀𝙂𝙔 Peak cavern located in Castleton is home to the largest cave system in Derbyshire, spanning over 18 kilometres. It is also home to a tragedy that began to transpire on Sunday, the 22nd of March 1959. Neil Moss was a 20 year old caver who ventured into peak cavern with his oxford university caving group and became wedged in a narrow vertical passage feet first within mos...
location_unknown_uk
67 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot by booking online in advance, especially during busy periods. Instagram

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential for navigating the cave's uneven terrain. Reddit

Dress for Cool Temperatures

Caves remain cool year-round; bring a light jacket or sweater. Reddit

Embrace the 'Devil's Arse'

Don't be put off by the nickname; it's a historical name for a natural wonder! Instagram

Check for Special Events

Peak Cavern hosts unique events like gigs, offering an unforgettable atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Peak Cavern for its engaging guided tours, with guides frequently highlighted for their knowledge, humor, and interactive demonstrations. The unique natural formations and the historical significance of the cave, including the rope-making, are major draws. Some note the need to bend low in certain sections, but overall, the experience is highly recommended for its educational and awe-inspiring qualities.

"We went here as a last min day out. Booked the tickets online which is a good idea incase its too busy. Had a very enjoyable time, Chris the tour guide was both knowledgable and engaging. Would recommend this to anyone"

masterpotter69

"A great tour of Peak cavern (the devil’s arse)
The tour guide was absolutely fantastic, funny and extremely entertaining. His knowledge was excellent and the demonstrations of how the rope was made was fab! Ideal for families as they encourage them to partake. Well worth a visit. It was £22 per ticket for adults, not sure how much it is for children. Will probably stipulate on the website."

The Art Of Everyday Life

"A good tour but there is a very low point in the cave system where you have to bend almost double to get through. Guide was very informative. Family really enjoyed it."

Tony B

What People Like

Engaging and knowledgeable guides
Unique rock formations
Historical rope-making demo

What People Dislike

Low sections requiring bending

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Peak Cavern is located on Peak Cavern Road in Castleton (S33 8WS). If driving, there's a carpark on Buxton Road. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Castleton bus station, followed by a 10-minute walk. Instagram Some visitors also use the Peak Sightseer bus for scenic routes. TikTok

Yes, there is a carpark available on Buxton Road in Castleton, which is a short walk from the cavern entrance. Instagram

Absolutely! Castleton is accessible by public transport, and the cavern is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the bus station. Instagram

The Peak Sightseer bus offers a hop-on, hop-off service with stunning views, making it a convenient way to reach Castleton and explore the wider Peak District. TikTok

Yes, Castleton is known for its caves. Speedwell Cavern, with its underground boat tour, is a popular nearby attraction. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Adult tickets are around £22, though prices for children may vary. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure entry and avoid long queues. Instagram

Peak Cavern is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM between April and October. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours. Instagram

Yes, the tours are generally family-friendly, and guides often encourage participation. However, be aware of low sections requiring bending. Reddit

No, access to Peak Cavern is only permitted via guided tours, which are essential for understanding the cave's history and geology. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tours are informative and engaging, with guides like Chris and Will praised for their knowledge and humor. They often include demonstrations, like traditional rope making. Reddit

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip as the cave floor can be uneven. It's also advisable to wear layers as the cave temperature is consistently cool. Reddit

Yes, there is a section where visitors need to bend almost double to pass through, which is a notable part of the experience. Reddit

Visitors are often struck by the vastness of the main entrance, the unique rock formations like the 'Fitch of Bacon,' and the historical rope-making demonstrations. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside Peak Cavern, but it's always best to check with your guide on the day. The lighting can be atmospheric. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Castleton offers several pubs and cafes where you can enjoy refreshments after your cave tour. TikTok

It's generally best to consume food and drinks before or after your tour to keep the cave environment pristine. Check with the venue for specific policies. Reddit

You'll find traditional pub fare, cafes offering light bites, and local specialties in the charming village of Castleton. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is usually permitted inside Peak Cavern, but it's always a good idea to confirm with your tour guide. The cave's natural lighting can create dramatic shots. Reddit

The massive entrance, unique rock formations, and the rope-making area offer great photographic opportunities. The atmospheric lighting adds to the appeal. Reddit

Given the low light, a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are beneficial. Experiment with longer exposure times if possible. Reddit

Drone photography is generally not permitted inside caves due to safety and environmental concerns. Always check local regulations. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Peak Cavern offers an exciting adventure for families. The guided tours are designed to be engaging for children, with guides often incorporating interactive elements and demonstrations, like the traditional rope-making. Reddit The sheer scale of the cave entrance and the unique rock formations are sure to capture young imaginations. Remember to dress children in layers as the cave is cool, and ensure they wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain. Reddit

While most of the tour is accessible, be aware that there's a low section requiring children to bend down. This can be part of the fun, but it's good to prepare them. Nearby, Speedwell Cavern offers a boat tour which can be a hit with kids, and the general atmosphere of Castleton with its pubs and shops provides a pleasant family-friendly environment. TikTok+1

🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For hikers, Peak Cavern is a fantastic addition to a Peak District adventure. The walk up to the cavern itself offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and the charming village of Castleton. Instagram Once inside, the geological wonders provide a unique experience that complements outdoor exploration. Many visitors combine a trip to the cavern with hikes in the nearby Hope Valley or up to Winnats Pass for breathtaking panoramic views. TikTok+1

Consider exploring some of the other natural attractions mentioned in the Peak District, such as Dovedale Valley or The Roaches, for a full day of outdoor activity. TikTok+1 The Peak Sightseer bus can be a great way to access trailheads and different parts of the national park without needing to worry about parking. TikTok

🎶 Music and Event Lovers

Peak Cavern is not just a natural wonder; it's also a unique venue for live music and events. Its incredible acoustics and atmospheric setting have made it a sought-after location for concerts, particularly for genres like goth and tribute acts. Reddit Attending an event here offers a truly unforgettable experience, with the natural cave formations providing a dramatic backdrop. Reddit

If you're planning a visit around an event, be prepared for a potentially larger crowd. The walk to and from the cavern, especially at night, can be atmospheric, with mist often settling over the nearby streams, adding to the mystical ambiance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Nickname of Peak Cavern

Peak Cavern, affectionately or perhaps ominously known as 'The Devil's Arse,' boasts a rich history intertwined with the local landscape and its inhabitants. The nickname is believed to have originated from the sound the wind makes when it blows through the cave's massive entrance, resembling a rumbling or 'arse-like' noise. This natural phenomenon has captivated visitors for centuries. The cave system itself is the largest in Derbyshire, stretching over 18 kilometers, and has been a site of human activity for millennia, from prehistoric shelter to more recent industrial uses like rope making. Instagram+1

The guided tours offer a glimpse into this history, with guides sharing tales of the cave's past and its geological significance. The sheer scale of the entrance, standing at 18 meters high, is a testament to the powerful natural forces that shaped this underground world. It's a place where geology, history, and local folklore converge, making for a truly unique visitor experience. InstagramReddit

Beyond its historical and geological importance, Peak Cavern has also served as a venue for unique events. Its cavernous acoustics and atmospheric setting have made it a popular spot for concerts and tribute acts, offering an unforgettable experience for attendees. Reddit

Exploring Nearby Attractions

While Peak Cavern is a major draw, Castleton and the surrounding Peak District offer a wealth of other attractions that complement a visit. A short distance away is Speedwell Cavern, famous for its underground boat tour through flooded passages. This offers a different, yet equally fascinating, perspective on cave exploration. TikTokInstagram

For those who enjoy hiking and scenic views, the Peak District National Park provides numerous trails. Winnats Pass, a dramatic limestone gorge, is located nearby and offers stunning vistas, making it a popular spot for photographers and walkers. TikTok The area is also known for its charming villages and historic sites, such as Peveril Castle, which overlooks Castleton and provides panoramic views of the Hope Valley. TikTok

Visitors can also explore other natural wonders like Dovedale Valley with its iconic stepping stones, or Lud's Church, a deep chasm with a unique microclimate. TikTok+1 The Peak Sightseer bus is a convenient way to access many of these locations, offering a scenic route without the need for a car. TikTok

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