Clearwell Caves Travel Guide

Clearwell Caves offers a rare glimpse into a subterranean landscape formed over 350 million years and shaped by 4,500 years of human mining activity. This natural cave network was extensively mined for iron ore and ochre pigments by generations of miners, including women and children known as 'billy boys'. Visitors descend approximately 100 feet underground to traverse a 550-metre route through 10 caverns, each telling a chapter of the area's extraordinary geological and industrial past. The caves preserve mining artefacts and displays that vividly illustrate the lives and labors of the Forest Freeminers, whose birthrights allow them to mine here even today.

The caverns are not only a testament to human history but also a sanctuary for wildlife. The caves provide an ideal habitat for several bat species, including greater horseshoe and long-eared bats, which thrive in the stable, undisturbed environment. Visitors can discover the Skeleton Pool, a tranquil underground pool adorned with fossils dating back over 300 million years, evoking a sense of ancient life preserved in stone. The Pit Theatre Chamber, a large cavern within the caves, hosts unique events and underground theatre performances, adding cultural vibrancy to this historic site.

Clearwell Caves caters to a diverse range of visitors. The main exploration is a self-guided walk, typically lasting 45 minutes to an hour, suitable for families and casual explorers. For groups and educational visits, guided tours are available, offering in-depth insights into mining history and geology. More adventurous visitors can participate in semi-deep level caving experiences, involving crawling and wearing helmets and lamps, which last around two hours. The site also hosts seasonal events such as the Festive Forest during the Christmas period, where the caves transform into a magical underground woodland.

Above the caves, the Lamproom Café provides a cozy retreat with organic coffees, fresh cakes, sandwiches, and a children’s play area, perfect for relaxing after exploring underground. The gift shop offers a curated selection of handmade ceramics, fossils, crystals, jewellery, and artist-grade ochre pigments mined on-site, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the Forest of Dean’s heritage. Facilities include restrooms, baby changing, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for families.

The caves’ unique atmosphere and dramatic caverns have made them a favored filming location for numerous television series and films, including Doctor Who, Merlin, His Dark Materials, and Britannia. This adds a layer of contemporary cultural significance to the site, attracting fans of these productions eager to experience the magical settings firsthand.

The caves are open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 4pm (last entry 3:30-4:30pm depending on season), with closures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Admission prices range from £10 for children (4-16) to £12.50 for adults, with family tickets available. Booking online in advance is recommended to secure entry. Visitors should allow 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the underground tour, café, shop, and surrounding walks. The site is accessible with facilities for all ages, making it an ideal day trip destination in the Forest of Dean.