Caves and Caverns in North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire is a bit of a gold mine for underground adventures, ranging from epic show caves to hidden gems. The “Big Four” are Ingleborough, Mother Shipton’s, Stump Cross, and White Scar featured below. Here are the other spots that make for a cracking day out.

The Caves and Caverns of North Yorkshire

Gaping Gill

• Where: Near Clapham, LA2 8EE (North Yorkshire)
• The Vibe: This is one of the most famous landmarks in the Dales—a massive underground chamber so big it could fit a cathedral inside. It features a waterfall that crashes down twice the height of Niagara Falls.
• The Experience: Most of the year, it’s for serious cavers only. However, usually in May and August, local winch clubs set up a seat and lower members of the public down into the abyss. It is a true “bucket list” experience.
• Good to Know: If you go during winch weeks, be prepared for a long wait and a fair hike from Clapham to get there. Dress like you’re going to a damp mountain (because you are).
• Budget & Logistics: The hike up is free, but the winch ride has a fee. Parking is best in the national park car park in Clapham. Pack a lunch; there are no cafes at the top of a mountain!

How Stean Gorge

• Where: Lofthouse, HG3 5SF (North Yorkshire)
• The Vibe: Nicknamed “Little Switzerland,” this is a limestone gorge with a hidden secret—Tom Taylor’s Cave. It’s a narrow, 80-metre long tunnel you can walk (or crawl) through.
• The Experience: This is high-energy fun. You can grab a hard hat and a torch and explore the cave yourself. It’s dark, wet, and muddy, which is exactly why families love it. Outside the cave, there’s a glass-floored cafe overhanging the gorge.
• Budget & Logistics: There is an admission fee for the gorge and cave. Parking is on-site and easy. The food in the cafe is great, but there are plenty of spots for a picnic if you want to save your pennies.
• Combine with: A trip to Scar House Reservoir just up the road for a flat, scenic walk.

Yordas Cave

• Where: Ingleton/Kingsdale, LA6 3PH (North Yorkshire)
• The Vibe: A “wild” cave that was actually a Victorian show cave back in the day. It has a huge main chamber and a hidden waterfall.
• The Experience: There are no lights or tour guides here—it’s totally free and open. You’ll need sturdy boots and a very good torch. It’s a great way to feel like a real explorer without needing technical gear.
• Budget & Logistics: Parking is usually just a lay-by on the road nearby. It’s a short walk to the entrance. Since it’s free, it’s the ultimate budget day out, but bring a change of clothes because you will get soggy.

Handy Tips for Your Underground Tour

• Average Time: Most of these spots (excluding the big hike to Gaping Gill) take about 1 to 2 hours to explore, but you can easily make a half-day of it if you include the surrounding walks.
• Temperature: Caves stay at a steady, chilly temperature all year round. Even if it’s a heatwave outside, you’ll want a jumper and a waterproof jacket.
• Money Savers: For the paid attractions, keep an eye out for Blue Light discounts or family tickets, which almost always save you a chunk of change.
• The Picnic Factor: Food at the more remote cave sites can be a bit pricey or limited to snacks. Bringing a packed lunch is a smart move, especially as most of these caves are located in some of the prettiest picnic spots in the UK.