Ingleborough Cave

If you’re looking for a subterranean adventure, Ingleborough Cave is a real showstopper located near the village of Clapham in North Yorkshire (LA2 8EE).

Getting there is actually part of the fun! You’ll take a scenic, mostly level walk of about 1.3 miles from the village through a wooded estate. It’s a lovely, easy-going stroll that sets the mood before you head underground.

Once you’re inside, the cave is famous for its incredible stalactites and stalagmites. It was first explored back in the 1830s, and today it’s well-lit with a safe, concrete path, so you won’t need to crawl through any tight gaps—it’s very “user-friendly” as far as caves go!

Things to look out for:

• Keep an eye out for the “Beheading” and the “Elephant’s Ear”—these are just some of the weird and wonderful rock formations you’ll see.
• The cave stays a constant 7°C (45°F) all year round. Even if it’s a scorching summer day outside, it’ll be chilly in there, so definitely bring a jacket!
• Look for the wishing well and see if you can spot the tiny cave critters that call the damp walls home.

A few tips for your visit:

• Timing: Most people spend about 45 minutes to an hour inside the cave itself, but when you add the walk to and from Clapham, it’s a solid 2 to 3 hour outing.
• Budgeting: Since you have to walk through the nature trail to get there, there is a small fee for the trail itself. It’s worth checking for family tickets or senior discounts, which are usually available.
• Food & Drink: There aren’t refreshments at the cave entrance, so a picnic is a great shout—there are plenty of pretty spots along the trail to sit down. Otherwise, the village of Clapham has some lovely cafes and a local pub for a post-cave treat.
• Parking: Park in the national park car park in the centre of Clapham. It’s paid, but it’s the most convenient spot.

If you’re feeling extra energetic, you can continue past the cave and hike up to Gaping Gill (a massive natural pothole) or even all the way to the summit of Ingleborough itself for some of the best views in the Dales.