Gaping Gill: The Majestic Underground Waterfall and Cave Chamber
Experience the awe of Britain’s largest underground chamber and tallest waterfall, accessible twice yearly by thrilling winch descent.
Gaping Gill is a spectacular natural cave located on the slopes of Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, England. It features the largest underground chamber in Britain and the UK's tallest waterfall, where Fell Beck plunges 100 meters into the cavern. Access to the chamber is possible twice a year during special winch meet events, allowing visitors to descend into this awe-inspiring subterranean world. The site offers a unique blend of natural wonder and adventurous exploration amid stunning Dales scenery.
A brief summary to Gaping Gill
- Clapdale Dr, Lancaster, GB
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 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
- Book your winch descent ticket online well in advance to avoid disappointment during the limited public access weeks.
- Arrive early on the day of your visit to secure your spot and enjoy a smoother experience.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the rugged 1.5-hour hike from Clapham.
- Children under 7 must be accompanied by a responsible adult, and visitors over 127 kg (20 stone) cannot descend.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus and Walk
Take the bus from Lancaster to Clapham village, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours depending on service. From Clapham, prepare for a 1.5-hour hike on a rugged, well-marked path to Gaping Gill. Bus services may be limited on weekends and holidays. No direct vehicle access to the cave entrance.
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Car and Walk
Drive to Clapham village where parking is available in designated areas. From there, expect a 1.5-hour walk on uneven terrain to reach Gaping Gill. Parking can be busy during winch meet events, so early arrival is advised. No parking is allowed at the cave entrance itself.
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Guided Tour
Join a local caving club or guided tour during the winch meet events in May or August. These tours include transportation arrangements and expert guidance for the descent. Booking in advance is essential, with prices around £30 for the winch descent.
Gaping Gill 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gaping Gill
The Geological Wonder Beneath Ingleborough
Gaping Gill is renowned for housing one of the largest underground chambers in the UK, measuring approximately 129 meters long, 31 meters high, and 25 meters wide. This vast cavern is carved by the waters of Fell Beck, which dramatically plunges 100 meters over a rock lip to form the UK's tallest underground waterfall. The cave system itself is part of a complex network connected to Ingleborough Cave, a connection established only in 1983 by cave divers.Unique Access Through Winch Meets
Public access to the chamber is highly restricted and occurs mainly during two annual events organized by local caving clubs — the Bradford Pothole Club in May and the Craven Pothole Club in August. During these 'winch meets,' visitors can be safely lowered by a winch down the vertical shaft into the chamber, where floodlights illuminate the stunning natural formations and the waterfall. The descent fee is £30 per person, and advance online booking is mandatory due to the event's popularity and to manage crowding.Surrounding Environment and Approach
Located near the village of Clapham, the site is approached on foot via a roughly 1.5-hour hike along a marked but rugged path. Along the way, visitors pass the entrance to Ingleborough Show Cave, a separate attraction worth visiting. The landscape around Gaping Gill is characteristic of the Yorkshire Dales, with rolling hills, limestone pavements, and pastoral scenery, providing a scenic backdrop to this subterranean marvel.Safety and Visitor Experience
Due to the natural hazards of the cave environment, visitors are advised to be well-prepared with suitable walking gear and to heed safety instructions. The winch descent is not suitable for those over 127 kg (20 stone) or children under 7 years without adult supervision. Weather conditions can affect operations, with cancellations or rescheduling possible in adverse weather or mechanical issues. When not descending, visitors can explore the surrounding nature trails and enjoy the peaceful Dales environment.Historical and Cultural Significance
Gaping Gill has long fascinated explorers and scientists, contributing significantly to speleological studies in the UK. It was the site of the largest cave conference in Europe in 2016, drawing hundreds of cavers. The cave's dramatic waterfall and immense chamber continue to inspire awe and curiosity about the natural underground world.Planning Your Visit
Visitors should plan ahead and book their winch descent tickets online well in advance due to limited availability and high demand. The events typically run for about a week in May and again in August. Nearby Clapham offers amenities including a community shop and accommodation options, making it a convenient base for exploring Gaping Gill and the wider Yorkshire Dales.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ribblehead Viaduct
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Cauldron Falls
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Aysgarth Falls Yorkshire Dales National Park Visitor Centre
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Clitheroe Castle Museum
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Pendle Hill
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Bleasdale Circle
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Blacko Tower
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The Clock Tower
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Eric Morecambe Statue
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Stone Jetty
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Cromwell's Bridge
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Bolton Castle
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Pendle Heritage Centre
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Discover Pendle Heritage Centre – a blend of art, history, and nature in Barrowford, perfect for a family-friendly day out.
Brock Valley Picnic Site
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Experience the tranquility of nature at Brock Valley Picnic Site – the perfect picnic spot in Claughton for families and nature lovers alike.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
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Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ingleborough Cave
1.6 km
Explore the stunning underground world of Ingleborough Cave, a well-lit natural wonder with ancient formations and Ice Age relics in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail
3.2 km
A peaceful 1.3-mile woodland trail leading to Ingleborough Cave, blending natural beauty, family-friendly walking, and access to Yorkshire Dales adventure.
Norber erratics
3.3 km
Discover the surreal landscape of the Norber Erratics, where ancient glacial boulders balance atop limestone pedestals in the Yorkshire Dales.
White Scar Cave
4.2 km
Explore Britain’s longest show cave with mile-long limestone formations, underground waterfalls, and vast caverns in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Beezley Falls
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking cascade and tranquil beauty of Beezley Falls, a highlight of the scenic Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
5.8 km
A stunning 7km circular walk through ancient woodland and limestone gorges, where eight dramatic waterfalls cascade down the River Twiss and River Doe in the Yorkshire Dales.
Lords Antiques & Salvage
5.9 km
Explore one of North West England’s largest antiques and salvage centres, where history and unique treasures await discovery every day.
Thornton Force Waterfall
6.2 km
Discover the dramatic 14-meter cascade of Thornton Force, a limestone amphitheater waterfall on the scenic Ingleton Waterfalls Trail.
Hull Pot
7.5 km
Explore England’s largest natural pothole, Hull Pot, a dramatic collapsed cavern with stunning waterfall displays in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Yordas Cave
7.8 km
Discover the vast limestone chambers and hidden waterfall of Yordas Cave, a captivating natural wonder in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Stainforth Force
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Experience the serene cascades of Stainforth Force and witness the breathtaking autumn salmon leap in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Watershed Mill
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Jubilee Cave
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Explore Jubilee Cave’s ancient limestone depths and uncover Yorkshire’s prehistoric secrets amid stunning Dales scenery.
3 Peaks Cycles | Bike Shop & Cafe
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Gastack Beck Waterfall
11.4 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Gastack Beck Waterfall, a hidden natural retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Essential places to dine
The Secret Garden Bistro
17.7 km
A pioneering plant-based bistro in Malham offering innovative, sustainable dishes in a serene Yorkshire Dales setting.
The Lister Arms
17.9 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 Fenwick
19.4 km
Historic 250-year-old gastro pub and charming country inn in Claughton, offering fine seafood, cozy rooms, and warm Lancashire hospitality.
The Crown Hawes
20.9 km
A traditional Yorkshire Dales pub offering hearty meals, local ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Hawes Market Place.
The White Hart Inn, Hawes
21.0 km
A cozy, traditional Yorkshire pub and inn in Hawes offering hearty local fare, comfortable rooms, and warm Dales hospitality.
Stone House Hotel
22.3 km
Elegant Edwardian country house hotel offering scenic Yorkshire Dales views, refined dining, and warm hospitality near Hawes.
Sycamore Restaurant
25.1 km
Authentic British dining with rustic charm in the scenic village of Bainbridge, celebrating local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Old Hall Inn
25.4 km
Historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality await at The Old Hall Inn in the heart of Grassington village.
Yorebridge House
25.6 km
Experience refined luxury and serene beauty at Yorebridge House, a boutique 5-star retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Wheatsheaf, Beetham
26.3 km
Historic country pub and inn in Milnthorpe offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in scenic Cumbria.
The Quarterhouse
29.3 km
Seasonal British small plates and cocktails in Lancaster’s stylish city-center bistro with a warm, contemporary vibe.
The Greenhouse Restaurant
29.4 km
Modern British dining with stunning views of Kendal Castle, nestled in the scenic Castle Green Hotel gardens.
Quite Simply French - Restaurant with Rooms
29.6 km
Elegant French dining and boutique rooms on Lancaster’s scenic St George’s Quay, blending classic cuisine with modern comfort.
Merchants 1688
29.7 km
Historic 17th-century wine cellar pub serving modern British cuisine with local ingredients beside Lancaster Castle.
The Waterwitch
29.7 km
A welcoming canal-side gastropub in Lancaster blending traditional English fare with standout vegan options and a lively community vibe.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hillside Toys -Farm Models & Toys
5.6 km
Discover a nostalgic world of farm models and classic toys at Hillside Toys in Ingleton, where agricultural heritage comes to life.
C&K
11.3 km
A charming independent lifestyle store and café in Settle’s Market Place, blending boutique shopping with local flavors and welcoming ambiance.
Dent Stores B&B
15.0 km
Historic Dent village B&B blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a top-rated breakfast in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Book Lounge
15.1 km
Discover a cozy haven of books, puzzles, and community spirit in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale’s historic Main Street.
The Mulberry Bush and Yorkshire Sheepskins
21.0 km
A charming Yorkshire gift shop in Hawes offering unique sheepskins, local crafts, and a warm, traditional welcome.
Carnforth Bookshop
25.2 km
Discover Carnforth Bookshop, a family-run independent haven of books, gifts, and local heritage in the heart of historic Lancashire.
Kitty Brown Boutique
25.3 km
A warm, independent women’s fashion boutique in Carnforth, offering curated clothing, footwear and accessories with comfort, style and sustainability at heart.
GB Antiques & Furniture Centre
28.6 km
Over 100 dealers, thousands of treasures, endless browsing in Lancaster's premier antiques marketplace.
Swaledale Woollens
29.7 km
Discover authentic, handmade woollen knitwear crafted by local artisans in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales at Swaledale Woollens.
Driscolls Antiques Ltd
29.8 km
Explore Driscolls Antiques Ltd in Clitheroe, where every piece tells a story and history comes alive through exquisite antique furniture.
The Old Curiosity Shop
30.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques at The Old Curiosity Shop in Kendal, where every item tells a story.
Iluvmemost Boutique
30.8 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Kendal Indoor market
30.9 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Westmorland Shopping Centre
30.9 km
Explore the diverse shopping and dining experiences at Westmorland Shopping Centre, a must-visit destination in Kendal for tourists.
Clarks Outlet
30.9 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Settle Working Mens Club
11.4 km
Authentic local bar in Settle offering affordable drinks, vibrant community spirit, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic market town setting.
The Queens Arms
15.6 km
Historic 17th-century Yorkshire pub in Litton offering award-winning local cuisine, cozy ambiance, and handcrafted ales in the heart of the Dales.
The Buck Inn Malham
17.9 km
A rustic, welcoming pub and inn in Malham offering hearty fare and cozy rooms amid the stunning Yorkshire Dales landscape.
The George Inn
18.3 km
Traditional Yorkshire Dales pub with award-winning pies, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality nestled in the scenic village of Hubberholme.
Hawes Club
21.0 km
A friendly, affordable bar on Main Street offering casual drinks, sports, and a pool table in the heart of Hawes.
The Blue Bell Inn
21.7 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
21.8 km
Experience bespoke mobile bar services and event hospitality in the scenic heart of Kettlewell, blending professional expertise with rural charm.
The Green Dragon Inn
21.9 km
Historic Yorkshire coaching inn with cozy fires, hearty pub fare, and scenic Dales setting near Hardraw Force waterfall.
The Gamekeeper's Inn
24.1 km
A charming countryside inn blending rustic hospitality, comfortable stays, and delicious local cuisine in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Yorkshire Dales Brewery
26.4 km
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The King's Arms Hotel
26.9 km
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The Crown Inn
27.1 km
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Street head inn
28.0 km
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Strickland Arms
28.9 km
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The Bowerham
29.3 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
36.6 km
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The Dalesman's Club
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The Redroom Burnley
41.1 km
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Windermere Social Club
42.3 km
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Wheelhouse Nightclub
42.5 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Queen's Head, Finghall
46.2 km
A quintessential English country pub and inn in Finghall offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality in scenic North Yorkshire.
Switch Nightclub
48.0 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
The Warehouse
48.0 km
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Popworld - Preston
48.1 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Baluga Bar & Club
48.1 km
Baluga Bar & Club: The ultimate nightlife experience in Preston with stylish drinks, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable nights.
The Lily Bar
48.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of vibrant bar atmosphere and exquisite dining at The Lily Bar in Ambleside, a hidden gem in the heart of the Lake District.
Louis Bar
50.0 km
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The Cavern Music Bar
50.5 km
Experience the pulse of Richmond's nightlife at The Cavern Music Bar, where live music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
sherdy sherd primary school
51.8 km
Experience Richmond’s vibrant nightlife at Sherdy Sherd Primary School, a uniquely named nightclub with extensive hours and lively atmosphere.
Manhattans Nightclub
55.2 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Natural Landmark
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
