Clearwell Caves: Ancient Iron Mines and Underground Adventure
Explore 4,500 years of mining history in Clearwell Caves’ stunning underground caverns beneath the Forest of Dean.
Clearwell Caves, nestled beneath the Forest of Dean near Coleford, is a spectacular natural cave system mined for iron ore and ochre pigments for over 4,500 years. Descend 100 feet underground to explore 10 awe-inspiring caverns on a 550-metre self-guided route, revealing the rich mining heritage and geological wonders. Above ground, enjoy the Lamproom Café, a gift shop with local crafts, and family-friendly facilities, making it a unique day out for explorers, history enthusiasts, and families.
A brief summary to Clearwell Caves
- The Rocks, Coleford, Clearwell, GL16 8JR, GB
- +441594832535
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons and special events.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the underground walk; the route is uneven but does not require helmets for the self-guided tour.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the caves, café, gift shop, and nearby walking trails comfortably.
- Visit the Lamproom Café for organic coffee and homemade cakes, a perfect way to relax after your cave adventure.
- Check the events calendar for unique underground theatre performances and seasonal celebrations like the Festive Forest.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Coleford town center to Clearwell Caves takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There is a free car park on site. Note that roads are rural and narrow, so drive carefully. Parking is complimentary for visitors.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Coleford to nearby villages, but no direct public bus stops at Clearwell Caves. Visitors can take a bus to Coleford and then use a taxi or rideshare for the 6 km journey to the caves, which takes about 15 minutes.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Clearwell village to the caves is possible via footpaths, taking around 30-40 minutes on uneven terrain. Suitable for those comfortable with rural walking paths.
Clearwell Caves location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Clearwell Caves
An Underground World Shaped by Millennia of Mining
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.Living History and Natural Wonders Beneath the Forest
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.A Hub for Adventure, Education, and Events
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 Ground Comforts and Unique Shopping
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.A Filming Location of Mystical Appeal
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.Planning Your Visit to Clearwell Caves
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Coleford Great Western Railway Museum
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Cannop Ponds - Forestry England
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Hopewell Colliery
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The Whitebrook
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Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
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Go Ape Mallards Pike, Forest of Dean
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Cyril Hart Arboretum - Forestry England
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National Trust - The Kymin
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Cathedral sculpture
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Silver Circle Distillery
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Essential places to dine
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La Taverna Restaurant
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The Castle Inn
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La Piccola Italia
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The Anchor Inn
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The Wild Hare
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The Potting Shed Whitchurch
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Stonemill Restaurant
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Panevino Italian Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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White Stuff Monmouth
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Bumble Living
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Millets
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Salt & Pepper Ltd
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Dylan's Den Crystal and Jewellery Shop
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Harts
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La piazza
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Envee Of Monmouth
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Grape Tree Monmouth
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Wye Valley Country Store Ltd
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Square Farm Shop
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
