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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour

Peak Cavern Castleton
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour

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

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

Underground Boat Tour
Speedwell Cavern (nearby)
Experience a unique boat journey through the flooded passages of Speedwell Cavern, a truly memorable underground exploration.

Fascinating Rock Formations
Throughout the Cavern
Discover ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations like the 'Fitch of Bacon' and 'Mary Queen of Scots' glow.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Cavern
Prepare for the Cave Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Dress for Cool Temperatures
Caves remain cool year-round; bring a light jacket or sweater.
Embrace the 'Devil's Arse'
Don't be put off by the nickname; it's a historical name for a natural wonder!
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Dress for Cool Temperatures
Caves remain cool year-round; bring a light jacket or sweater.
Embrace the 'Devil's Arse'
Don't be put off by the nickname; it's a historical name for a natural wonder!
Check for Special Events
Peak Cavern hosts unique events like gigs, offering an unforgettable atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Some visitors also use the Peak Sightseer bus for scenic routes.Yes, there is a carpark available on Buxton Road in Castleton, which is a short walk from the cavern entrance.
Absolutely! Castleton is accessible by public transport, and the cavern is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the bus station.
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.
Yes, Castleton is known for its caves. Speedwell Cavern, with its underground boat tour, is a popular nearby attraction.
🎫 🎫 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.
Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure entry and avoid long queues.
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.
Yes, the tours are generally family-friendly, and guides often encourage participation. However, be aware of low sections requiring bending.
No, access to Peak Cavern is only permitted via guided tours, which are essential for understanding the cave's history and geology.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
Yes, there is a section where visitors need to bend almost double to pass through, which is a notable part of the experience.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Castleton offers several pubs and cafes where you can enjoy refreshments after your cave tour.
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.
You'll find traditional pub fare, cafes offering light bites, and local specialties in the charming village of Castleton.
📸 📸 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.
The massive entrance, unique rock formations, and the rope-making area offer great photographic opportunities. The atmospheric lighting adds to the appeal.
Given the low light, a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are beneficial. Experiment with longer exposure times if possible.
Drone photography is generally not permitted inside caves due to safety and environmental concerns. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
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. 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.
🎶 Music and Event Lovers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Nickname of Peak Cavern
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.
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.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
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. 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.
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. The Peak Sightseer bus is a convenient way to access many of these locations, offering a scenic route without the need for a car.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit