Jubilee Cave: A Window into Yorkshire's Ancient Past
Explore Jubilee Cave’s ancient limestone depths and uncover Yorkshire’s prehistoric secrets amid stunning Dales scenery.
Nestled above Langcliffe near Settle, Jubilee Cave is a captivating prehistoric site within the Yorkshire Dales. Known for its archaeological significance, the cave has revealed artefacts spanning from the Mesolithic era through the Roman period, including animal bones and human remains. Its rugged limestone entrance and surrounding dramatic crags offer a scenic and atmospheric experience for visitors exploring the region’s rich geological and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Jubilee Cave
- Settle, Langcliffe, BD24 9PZ, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Combine your visit with nearby Victoria Cave for a fuller archaeological experience.
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be steep, muddy, and uneven.
- Visit during dry weather for safer walking conditions and better views.
- Bring a camera to capture the dramatic limestone cliffs and panoramic vistas.
- Respect the fragile environment by sticking to marked paths and carrying out all litter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus and Walking
From Settle town center, take the local bus service towards Langcliffe (approximately 10-15 minutes). From Langcliffe village, follow the well-marked walking paths uphill to Jubilee Cave, a 30-40 minute moderate hike over uneven terrain. Bus fares range from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car and Walking
Drive to Langcliffe village where limited parking is available near the trailhead. From the parking area, a 25-35 minute uphill walk leads to Jubilee Cave via stony and grassy paths. Parking is free but can be limited during peak times.
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Taxi
A taxi from Settle to Langcliffe takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately £10-£15. From Langcliffe, access Jubilee Cave by a 30-minute walk on moderate terrain.
Jubilee Cave 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 Jubilee Cave
Geological and Archaeological Significance of Jubilee Cave
Jubilee Cave is part of a notable series of truncated caves along Langcliffe Scar, a limestone escarpment above the town of Settle in the Yorkshire Dales. These caves were originally formed as phreatic passages—water-filled tunnels carved by underground streams—before being exposed by erosion and glaciation. Jubilee Cave, named in 1935 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V, holds archaeological remains that span thousands of years, including Mesolithic, Iron Age, Neolithic, Celtic, and Roman artefacts. Excavations have uncovered animal bones such as those of hyenas, hippos, and elephants, as well as human remains and tools, reflecting a long history of occupation and use by prehistoric peoples and later communities.Historical Discoveries and Cultural Context
The cave gained wider attention through archaeological digs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Finds included not only prehistoric animal fossils but also Roman-era objects like brooches, coins, and personal items, suggesting the cave may have served ritual or domestic purposes during Roman Britain. Nearby Victoria Cave, discovered in 1837, complements Jubilee Cave’s story with its own trove of ancient remains, including evidence of hyena dens and early human hunting activities. Together, these caves offer a rare glimpse into the prehistoric landscape of the Dales, which was once a tropical environment near the equator, vastly different from today’s rugged moorland.Setting and Visitor Experience
Approaching Jubilee Cave, visitors are greeted by the imposing limestone cliffs of Langcliffe Scar and the dramatic crags of Warrendale Knots. The cave entrance itself is a rugged natural opening set into the hillside, surrounded by wild grasses and rocky outcrops. The area is ideal for those interested in geology, archaeology, and scenic outdoor walks. The trail to the cave includes some steep and uneven sections, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding Dales and the town of Settle below. The atmosphere here is tranquil yet charged with the echoes of ancient times, inviting reflection on the deep human and natural history embedded in the landscape.Conservation and Accessibility
Jubilee Cave is an unstaffed, open-access site without formal visitor facilities, emphasizing a low-impact, nature-focused experience. The surrounding area is managed to preserve its fragile geological and archaeological features. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site’s delicate environment by following Leave No Trace principles. While the cave is accessible via well-marked trails, the terrain requires moderate fitness and caution, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The site’s proximity to Langcliffe and Settle makes it a rewarding day trip for those exploring the Yorkshire Dales’ rich heritage.Local Legends and Anecdotes
Local lore connects Jubilee Cave with the broader prehistoric narrative of the Dales, including tales of early hunters and the animals that once roamed this now temperate landscape. The cave’s alternative name, Tratman’s Cave, honors a local amateur archaeologist who contributed to its excavation. The discovery of ancient tools and bones has sparked imaginations about the lives of those who sought shelter here, from Mesolithic hunters to Roman-era farmers. The nearby remains of an old army rifle range add a layer of more recent history, blending natural wonder with human stories across centuries.Complementary Exploration Opportunities
Visitors often combine a trip to Jubilee Cave with a visit to Victoria Cave, located less than half a mile away along the same limestone escarpment. The route offers a varied walking experience through fields, crags, and historic sites, including remnants of old farms and military training grounds. For those seeking to extend their adventure, nearby Attermire Scar and the trig point above provide further panoramic views and photo opportunities, making this area a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ribblehead Viaduct
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Bleasdale Circle
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Bolton Castle
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The Forbidden Corner
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East Riddlesden Hall
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Halton Castle (Remains)
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Nidderdale National Landscape
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nidderdale National Landscape, where nature meets adventure in an unforgettable Yorkshire escape.
Towneley Hall
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Ashton Memorial
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Lune Aqueduct
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Leighton Hall Estate
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Westmorland County Showground
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Ribchester Roman Museum
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Queen Victoria Memorial, Lancaster
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Lancaster City Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
Victoria Cave
0.5 km
Explore Victoria Cave’s prehistoric wonders and stunning Dales vistas on a scenic walk near Settle.
Warrendale Knots
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and peaceful charm of Warrendale Knots, a serene natural retreat near Settle in the Yorkshire Dales.
Watershed Mill
2.2 km
Discover ethical shopping, local flavors, and welcoming café vibes at Watershed Mill, Settle’s vibrant retail and visitor centre.
Stainforth Force
2.5 km
Experience the serene cascades of Stainforth Force and witness the breathtaking autumn salmon leap in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
3 Peaks Cycles | Bike Shop & Cafe
2.6 km
A welcoming bike shop and cafe in Settle offering bike hire, repairs, accessories, and vegan-friendly refreshments for Yorkshire Dales adventurers.
Scaleber Force Waterfall
3.0 km
Discover the enchanting 40-foot Scaleber Force waterfall nestled in a tranquil limestone gorge within Yorkshire’s scenic Scaleber Wood.
Malham Tarn Estate
5.2 km
Explore Malham Tarn Estate’s stunning limestone landscapes, tranquil lake, and rich wildlife in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
National Trust - Yorkshire Dales
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Explore the breathtaking limestone landscapes and rich wildlife of Malham Tarn Estate, a treasured National Trust nature reserve in the Yorkshire Dales.
Malham Tarn
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A rare upland lake in the Yorkshire Dales, surrounded by moorland and limestone cliffs, perfect for peaceful walks and nature watching.
Malham Cove
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Malham
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Janet's Foss
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Gordale Scar
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Hull Pot
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Essential places to dine
The Secret Garden Bistro
6.8 km
A pioneering plant-based bistro in Malham offering innovative, sustainable dishes in a serene Yorkshire Dales setting.
The Lister Arms
6.9 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Malham offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and a welcoming pub atmosphere in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Old Hall Inn
15.3 km
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Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn
21.9 km
Experience authentic Yorkshire Dales hospitality with hearty food, local ales, and rustic charm at Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn.
The White Hart Inn, Hawes
24.5 km
A cozy, traditional Yorkshire pub and inn in Hawes offering hearty local fare, comfortable rooms, and warm Dales hospitality.
The Crown Hawes
24.5 km
A traditional Yorkshire Dales pub offering hearty meals, local ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Hawes Market Place.
Stone House Hotel
25.7 km
Elegant Edwardian country house hotel offering scenic Yorkshire Dales views, refined dining, and warm hospitality near Hawes.
Sycamore Restaurant
26.3 km
Authentic British dining with rustic charm in the scenic village of Bainbridge, celebrating local flavors and warm hospitality.
Yorebridge House
26.9 km
Experience refined luxury and serene beauty at Yorebridge House, a boutique 5-star retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Fenwick
27.0 km
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The Foresters Arms
29.9 km
A welcoming community pub in picturesque Carlton-in-Coverdale, blending traditional charm with quality food and local spirit.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
30.5 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Bertram's Restaurant
31.5 km
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Wensleydale Heifer
31.8 km
Luxury boutique hotel and acclaimed fine dining in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, offering themed rooms and local culinary delights.
The Cellar Restaurant
31.8 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
C&K
2.5 km
A charming independent lifestyle store and café in Settle’s Market Place, blending boutique shopping with local flavors and welcoming ambiance.
Hillside Toys -Farm Models & Toys
15.8 km
Discover a nostalgic world of farm models and classic toys at Hillside Toys in Ingleton, where agricultural heritage comes to life.
The Mulberry Bush and Yorkshire Sheepskins
24.5 km
A charming Yorkshire gift shop in Hawes offering unique sheepskins, local crafts, and a warm, traditional welcome.
Dent Stores B&B
25.2 km
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The Book Lounge
26.1 km
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Witches Galore
26.1 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
The Old Rock Home & Gifts Shop
27.6 km
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Charter Walk Shopping Centre
32.9 km
Burnley’s accessible and family-friendly shopping centre with over 85 stores, sensory facilities, and community-focused amenities.
Grove Bookshop
33.1 km
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Swaledale Woollens
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Carnforth Bookshop
34.1 km
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Kitty Brown Boutique
34.2 km
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Little Town Farm Shop
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Lancaster Leisure Park
35.0 km
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GB Antiques & Furniture Centre
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Over 100 dealers, thousands of treasures, endless browsing in Lancaster's premier antiques marketplace.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Settle Working Mens Club
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The Buck Inn Malham
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The Queens Arms
11.0 km
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The Gamekeeper's Inn
14.1 km
A charming countryside inn blending rustic hospitality, comfortable stays, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Blue Bell Inn
14.8 km
Historic 17th-century inn offering cozy rooms, hearty local fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in scenic Kettlewell, Yorkshire Dales.
G & P Events and Mobile Bars
14.9 km
Experience bespoke mobile bar services and event hospitality in the scenic heart of Kettlewell, blending professional expertise with rural charm.
The George Inn
15.4 km
Traditional Yorkshire Dales pub with award-winning pies, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality nestled in the scenic village of Hubberholme.
Hawes Club
24.5 km
A friendly, affordable bar on Main Street offering casual drinks, sports, and a pool table in the heart of Hawes.
The Green Dragon Inn
25.8 km
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The Kings Wine and Cocktail Bar and Thai at the Kings
25.9 km
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Street head inn
25.9 km
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Yorkshire Dales Brewery
27.4 km
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The King's Arms Hotel
27.8 km
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The Crown Inn
27.9 km
A friendly, family-run pub in Askrigg offering hearty local food, fine ales, and a warm Yorkshire welcome in the heart of the Dales.
Aysgarth Falls Hotel & Restaurant
28.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
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The Redroom Burnley
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The Dalesman's Club
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The Queen's Head, Finghall
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The Warehouse
46.6 km
Three floors of diverse music and vibrant nightlife in Preston’s welcoming alternative club scene.
Switch Nightclub
46.7 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Preston
46.7 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Louis Bar
47.2 km
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New Inn
52.3 km
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Windermere Social Club
53.5 km
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Wheelhouse Nightclub
53.7 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
53.7 km
Experience the vibrant live music scene at The Crafty Baa in Windermere, where local talent and cozy ambiance create unforgettable nights.
Brudenell Social Club
54.0 km
Experience the vibrant music and community atmosphere at Brudenell Social Club, Leeds' iconic live music venue and social hub.
Hyde Park Book Club
54.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Hyde Park Book Club, where delicious vegetarian cuisine meets live music and community spirit in the heart of Leeds.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly