Peak Cavern: The Largest Natural Cave Entrance in Britain
Discover Britain’s largest natural cave entrance with historic rope-making tours, stunning geology, and unique cultural events in Castleton’s Peak District.
Nestled in the heart of Castleton, Derbyshire, Peak Cavern boasts the largest natural cave entrance in the British Isles. Known historically as 'The Devil’s Arse,' this remarkable limestone cavern offers guided tours revealing its rich rope-making heritage, captivating rock formations, and fascinating folklore. Visitors can explore its vast chambers, experience utter darkness, and enjoy seasonal concerts in a unique open-air cave setting.
A brief summary to Peak Cavern
- Peak Cavern Road, Hope Valley, S33 8WS, GB
- +441433620285
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 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 guided tour online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear and warm clothing as the cave temperature remains around 9°C and floors can be wet.
- Be prepared to bend down for a short 30-meter section of the tour where the cave ceiling is low.
- Participate in the rope-making demonstration if you are physically able and tall enough to turn the wheel for a memorable souvenir.
- Check the event schedule for unique concerts and pop-up cinema nights held inside the cavern’s main entrance chamber.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Sheffield or Manchester, expect a 45 to 60-minute journey to Castleton. Parking is available on Buxton Road, about a 10-minute walk from Peak Cavern. Parking can be limited on weekends and holidays, so arrive early to secure a spot.
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Sheffield and Buxton to Castleton bus station, approximately 10 minutes’ walk from Peak Cavern. Buses run hourly with fares around £5-£8 one way. Check local timetables for weekend and holiday schedules.
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Train
The nearest train station is Hope, about 3 miles from Castleton. From Hope station, take a local bus or taxi to Castleton, which takes around 10-15 minutes. Train fares vary but typically range from £8-£12 from nearby cities.
Peak Cavern 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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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Peak Cavern
A Majestic Natural Wonder in Castleton
Peak Cavern stands as the largest natural cave entrance in Britain, located beneath the imposing ruins of Peveril Castle in Castleton, Derbyshire. The cavern’s dramatic vertical cliffs rise about 280 feet, creating a breathtaking limestone gorge. A sparkling stream flows from the cavern’s mouth, threading through Castleton’s oldest parts, linking the natural spectacle to the village’s historic charm. The cavern is part of the Peak District National Park, a region celebrated for its rugged landscapes and cultural heritage.Living History of Rope Makers and Lead Miners
For centuries, the cavern’s entrance housed a unique community of rope makers who supplied essential rope for the local lead mining industry. Visitors on guided tours witness authentic rope-making demonstrations using original equipment, sometimes even participating in the process. Evidence of past habitation remains visible, including soot marks from chimneys and historical references to an alehouse within the cave. This living history enriches the visitor experience, blending industrial heritage with folklore.Exploring the Cavern’s Depths and Geological Marvels
The guided tour delves deep into the cave system, revealing unusual rock formations, waterfalls, and the famous Queens Passage—a man-made tunnel created for Queen Victoria’s convenience. The Great Cave chamber impresses with its vastness and echoes, where visitors experience complete darkness for about a minute, heightening the sense of awe. The route includes a low-ceiling section requiring bending and offers glimpses of Victorian graffiti etched into the walls, connecting visitors to generations past.A Venue for Unique Cultural Events
Beyond tours, Peak Cavern serves as a distinctive venue for concerts and events, especially during summer. The main entrance chamber functions as an open-air venue protected by a massive cave roof, offering excellent acoustics for performances such as Christmas carol concerts and pop-up cinema nights. These events create a magical atmosphere, combining natural grandeur with cultural celebration, making the cavern a year-round attraction.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Tours typically last about an hour and run daily from 10 am to 5 pm during the main season (April to October), with more limited schedules in winter. The cave’s internal temperature is a chilly 9°C, and the floor can be wet and uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Accessibility is limited beyond the entrance due to steps and narrow passages, and wheelchairs cannot proceed into the cave. A small gift shop near the exit offers souvenirs, and well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome.Setting Within the Peak District Landscape
The cavern’s location in the Hope Valley places it amid iconic natural beauty and historic sites such as Peveril Castle. Visitors can enjoy nearby riverside walks, cafes, and shops in Castleton village. The area’s rich mining and geological history is palpable, with other notable caves and outdoor attractions within easy reach, making Peak Cavern a compelling highlight of any Peak District exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
6.3 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Carl Wark
11.2 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Baslow Edge
13.7 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Peak District National Park Authority
15.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Ecclesall Woods
17.7 km
Ecclesall Woods: A lush escape in Sheffield, perfect for outdoor adventures, serene walks, and connecting with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
17.7 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Endcliffe Park
18.2 km
Explore the beauty of Endcliffe Park in Sheffield, a perfect blend of nature, community, and tranquility for all visitors seeking relaxation.
Haddon Hall
18.3 km
Explore the enchanting Haddon Hall, a historical gem in the Peak District with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and delightful dining experiences.
The Endcliffe Campus
18.4 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Endcliffe Park Playground
18.4 km
Discover fun and adventure at Endcliffe Park Playground in Sheffield, a perfect family destination with scenic parkland and vibrant play areas.
Beauchief Abbey
18.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Beauchief Abbey, a gem in Sheffield's rich heritage.
Chelsea Park
18.5 km
Discover Chelsea Park in Sheffield: a peaceful retreat with stunning gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics in a tranquil environment.
The Beer House
18.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection at The Beer House, Sheffield's favorite pub for locals and visitors alike.
The Well Sheffield
18.8 km
Explore The Well Sheffield, a vibrant Baptist church in Sharrow, blending rich community spirit with stunning architecture and cultural events.
Bear pit
18.8 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Peveril Castle
0.1 km
Explore the atmospheric Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, crowned by sweeping views over Castleton and the Peak District’s scenic valleys.
Cave Dale
0.2 km
Explore the rugged limestone valley of Cave Dale, where dramatic cliffs frame historic Peveril Castle in the heart of the Peak District.
Castleton Visitor Centre
0.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to Castleton’s history, nature, and the Peak District’s breathtaking landscapes.
Castleton
0.4 km
Discover Castleton, Hope Valley’s charming village famed for ancient castles, unique Blue John caverns, and stunning Peak District landscapes.
Speedwell Cavern
0.9 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
Treak Cliff Cavern
1.4 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Winnats Pass
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, a scenic and historic route through the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Blue John Cavern
1.8 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
National Trust - Dark Peak
2.3 km
Explore the wild, windswept moorlands and iconic gritstone edges of the Peak District’s Dark Peak, a haven for nature and history lovers.
Mam Tor
2.3 km
Discover Mam Tor, the iconic 'Mother Hill' of the Peak District, offering ancient history, dramatic landslips, and panoramic views over Hope Valley.
Eldon Hole
3.7 km
A legendary 55-metre pothole steeped in geology, folklore, and Peak District heritage.
Dark Peak Estate
3.8 km
Explore the wild moorlands and gritstone edges of the Dark Peak Estate, a dramatic upland landscape in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Edale
3.9 km
Edale, nestled in Hope Valley, is the Peak District’s scenic gateway and starting point of the iconic Pennine Way, offering stunning hiking and rich heritage.
The Blind Bull
4.3 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering seasonal British cuisine, cozy rooms, and warm countryside hospitality in Little Hucklow.
Peak District National Park
4.8 km
England’s first national park, a vast playground of moorlands, caves, and trails offering adventure, heritage, and breathtaking landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Ye Olde Nags Head
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
1530 The Restaurant
0.4 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
0.5 km
Historic village inn and pub in Castleton offering cozy rooms, hearty English fare, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Peak District.
The Anchor Inn
6.4 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
Derbyshire Eats
6.7 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Merchant's Yard
6.8 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Horse & Jockey
7.2 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
The Lamb Inn
10.0 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
The Paper Mill Inn
10.9 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
Old Hall Inn
10.9 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Hanging Gate
11.0 km
Family-run pub and restaurant in the scenic High Peak offering hearty meals, event hosting, and outside catering in Chapel-en-le-Frith.
The Crispin
11.9 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
12.0 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
White Lion
12.0 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Eating House
12.6 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Old Barn
0.2 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
The Outdoor Shop
0.3 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Causeway Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
Antique and Unique
6.6 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Outside.co.uk
8.3 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
8.3 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Delightful Living
9.1 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Bluebird’s Nest UK
9.2 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
The Springs Shopping Centre
12.6 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
12.6 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Atticusboo
12.7 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Decor Boutique
12.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Fiveways Country Store
12.9 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Jo Royle Outdoor
13.0 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The George
0.3 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Castle
0.3 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
Bulls Head, Castleton
0.4 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Rambler Inn
3.8 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
The Old Nags Head
4.2 km
Historic 16th-century country pub at the start of the Pennine Way, offering rustic charm, real ales, and hearty fare in Edale’s scenic Peak District.
Star Inn
6.8 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
Ladybower Inn
6.8 km
A cozy 3-star inn in Hope Valley offering hearty pub meals, friendly hospitality, and scenic access to Ladybower Reservoir and Peak District trails.
The George Inn
6.8 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
The Barrel Inn
7.0 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
7.2 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Red Lion Inn
7.6 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
Anglers Rest
9.3 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
The Packhorse Inn
11.6 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Eyre Arms
11.9 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
12.7 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
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
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
