Peak Cavern: The Devil’s Arse of Castleton
Explore Britain’s largest natural cave entrance with historic rope-making demos and atmospheric concerts beneath Castleton’s Peveril Castle.
Peak Cavern, known locally as the Devil’s Arse, is home to the largest natural cave entrance in the British Isles, located in Castleton, Hope Valley. This spectacular cavern offers guided tours revealing its rich history as a ropemaking hub for lead miners, alongside fascinating geological formations. Visitors can enjoy immersive demonstrations, atmospheric concerts, and the dramatic limestone gorge setting beneath Peveril Castle.
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
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as cave floors can be wet and uneven.
- Book your guided tour online in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
- Bring a light jacket; the cave temperature stays around 9°C year-round.
- Join the ropemaking demonstration to experience a unique historic craft firsthand.
- Check the schedule for special events like Christmas Carol concerts and cave cinema nights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service to Castleton bus station from nearby towns such as Sheffield or Hope. From the bus station, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to Peak Cavern. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for frequency and seasonal variations. Tickets typically cost between £3 and £7 GBP one way.
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Car
Driving to Peak Cavern is convenient via the A6187 Hope Valley Road. Parking is available at designated car parks in Castleton village, about a 10-minute walk from the cavern entrance. Parking fees range from £3 to £6 GBP for the day. Note that weekends and holidays can be busy, so early arrival is recommended.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 30- to 45-minute walk from Castleton village center to Peak Cavern follows a riverside path past historic cottages and limestone gorge views. The terrain is mostly easy but can be uneven near the cavern entrance. Suitable for most walkers but not recommended for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
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 Entrance and Geological Wonder
Peak Cavern boasts the largest natural cave entrance in Britain, an imposing 18-meter-high gateway carved into the limestone gorge below Peveril Castle. The cavern’s vast entrance opens suddenly after a scenic riverside walk past historic lead miners’ cottages, setting the stage for an awe-inspiring subterranean adventure. Inside, visitors encounter ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations such as the 'Fitch of Bacon' and the 'Mary Queen of Scots' glow, showcasing millennia of geological history.The Legacy of the Rope Makers
For over 400 years, Peak Cavern was home to Britain’s last troglodytes—the ropemakers who lived and worked within its depths. Their ropes supplied the local lead mining industry until the late 19th century. The cavern still retains evidence of this human presence, including soot marks from chimneys and remnants of rope-making equipment. Guided tours feature live demonstrations of this traditional craft, inviting visitors to witness the skill and history intertwined with the cavern’s story.Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
The one-hour guided tours are led by knowledgeable and engaging guides who weave historical anecdotes with geological insights. Visitors explore chambers like the orchestral gallery, Pluto’s dining room, and the Devil’s cellar, learning about the cavern’s folklore and its evocative nickname, the Devil’s Arse. The tour includes a short section requiring bending due to low ceilings, and the cave’s cool, damp environment maintains a steady temperature around 9°C. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome, but wheelchair access is limited beyond the entrance.Events and Cultural Significance
Beyond its natural and historical allure, Peak Cavern serves as a unique cultural venue. Its excellent acoustics host annual Christmas Carol concerts, where audiences join in festive singing accompanied by brass bands, mulled wine, and mince pies. Throughout the year, the cavern also hosts concerts, film screenings, and special events, making it a vibrant hub for community and visitors alike.Setting and Surrounding Attractions
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, the cavern lies beneath the ruins of Peveril Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Hope Valley. Castleton village, rich in history and charm, provides a range of cafes, pubs, and shops. Nearby natural wonders such as Cave Dale, Speedwell Cavern, and the Dovedale Valley complement the visit, offering extensive walking and exploration opportunities.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Peak Cavern is open daily from 10:00 to 16:00, with tours running hourly during the summer season. The terrain inside is uneven and can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The cavern is not connected to mains water, so there are no toilet facilities on site. Booking tours online in advance is advised, especially during peak times and special events. The cavern’s size and setting require a moderate level of physical ability, with some steps and a short low-ceiling section to navigate.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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level 2
13.0 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Corporation
20.5 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Dempseys Bar and Club
20.5 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
20.6 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
20.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
20.7 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
20.7 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Al Ahsa Night Club
20.8 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Code Sheffield
20.8 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
The Night Kitchen
20.8 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Temple Sheffield
21.2 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
The Leadmill
21.2 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Tank
21.2 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
21.5 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
26.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
