Castleton and the Show Caves
About
Castleton is a picturesque village at the head of the Hope Valley, dominated by the ruins of Peveril Castle on the hill above and famous for its four show caves. The caves are each different — Peak Cavern (the largest cave entrance in Britain, once home to a community of ropemakers), Speedwell Cavern (reached by an underground canal boat through lead mine tunnels), Treak Cliff Cavern (the best for Blue John stone, a mineral found nowhere else on earth), and Blue John Cavern. Peak Cavern is the most impressive — the enormous cave mouth was known as the 'Devil's Arse' for centuries (the name is back in use) and the underground spaces are vast. Speedwell is the most adventurous — the boat ride through the flooded mine tunnels to the Bottomless Pit is genuinely thrilling. Treak Cliff is the best for the beautiful Blue John stone and its spectacular stalactite formations. The village itself is lovely — good pubs (the George is a proper walkers' boozer), outdoor shops, and gift shops selling Blue John jewellery. Castleton sits at the start of several excellent walks, including the ridge walk over Mam Tor. The annual Garland Ceremony on Oak Apple Day (29 May) is a centuries-old tradition involving a king on horseback wearing a massive flower garland. Unique and wonderful.
Tickets & Pricing
Cave tours vary: approximately £13-£20 per adult per cave. Peveril Castle (English Heritage): £9.
Opening Times
Caves: daily 10:00-17:00 (summer), reduced winter hours. Village 24 hours.
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