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Victoria Cave: A Window into Prehistoric Yorkshire Dales

Explore Victoria Cave’s prehistoric wonders and stunning Dales vistas on a scenic walk near Settle.

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Victoria Cave, nestled near Langcliffe above Settle in the Yorkshire Dales, is a remarkable limestone cave discovered in 1837. It offers visitors a glimpse into ancient climates and prehistoric life through its rich fossil deposits, including bones of extinct animals and early human artefacts. Surrounded by scenic walking trails, the cave is a peaceful natural attraction with historical significance and stunning views over Ribblesdale.

A brief summary to Victoria Cave

  • Settle, Langcliffe, GB
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon 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

  • Wear sturdy footwear as paths to Victoria Cave can be steep, muddy, and slippery.
  • Combine your visit with a walk to Jubilee Cave for a fuller cave exploration experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views over Ribblesdale from Attermire Scar.
  • Exercise caution near the cave entrance due to roof instability and possible rock falls.
  • Visit the Craven Museum in Skipton to see artefacts excavated from Victoria Cave.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive from Settle to Langcliffe parking area, approximately 10 minutes. Parking is limited with an honesty box system; paths from here lead to Victoria Cave. No parking fees apply. Terrain near the cave is uneven and can be slippery.

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Settle to Langcliffe, which runs several times daily with a journey time of about 15 minutes. From the village, a 30-minute walk on uneven paths leads to the cave entrance.

  • Walking

    From Settle town center, a scenic 2.5-hour circular walk covers Victoria Cave and Jubilee Cave. The route involves moderate ascents and rough terrain, suitable for experienced walkers with proper footwear.

Victoria Cave location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

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Discover more about Victoria Cave

Discovery and Geological Significance

Victoria Cave was discovered by chance in 1837, coinciding with Queen Victoria's coronation year. This limestone cave, located east of Langcliffe in Ribblesdale, has since been fully excavated, revealing a treasure trove of prehistoric remains. The cave's deposits provide an extensive record of climate change in the Yorkshire Dales spanning thousands of years, making it a key site for understanding the area's geological and environmental history.

Prehistoric Fossils and Archaeological Finds

The cave contained numerous prehistoric bones, some dating back 130,000 years, including those of hippos, narrow-nosed rhinos, elephants, and spotted hyenas. These remains indicate a period when the climate was significantly warmer than today. After the last Ice Age, the cave served as a hibernation site for brown bears. Notably, an 11,000-year-old antler harpoon point was found among reindeer bones, marking the earliest evidence of human presence in the Yorkshire Dales.

Roman Era Artifacts and Cultural Insights

Victoria Cave also yielded intriguing Roman-era artefacts such as bronze and bone objects, brooches, coins, and pottery, some imported from distant regions including France and Africa. Archaeologists believe the cave’s interior was possibly used as a shrine, with a workshop area situated outside. These findings provide valuable insights into the cultural and ritual practices of ancient inhabitants.

Natural Setting and Visitor Experience

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Attermire Scar, Victoria Cave is accessible via scenic walking routes from Langcliffe and Settle. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views over rolling hills and the Ribblesdale valley. The cave itself is a peaceful spot, ideal for those interested in natural history and tranquil outdoor exploration. Visitors should note that the cave roof has become unstable over time, so caution is advised near the entrance.

Complementary Attractions and Trails

Victoria Cave is often visited alongside Jubilee Cave on a popular circular walk of approximately 6.8 km. This moderate trail takes around three hours and features varied terrain including steep and slippery paths. The walk offers opportunities to explore multiple caves and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, making it a rewarding day trip for hikers and families alike.

Preservation and Educational Value

Many artefacts from Victoria Cave are preserved at the Craven Museum in Skipton, highlighting the cave’s importance for archaeological study. The site remains a protected natural landmark, contributing to the understanding of prehistoric ecosystems and human history in northern England. Its free access and combination of natural beauty and scientific significance make it a unique destination in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

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