Speedwell Cavern

What it is and why it matters

Miners drove the tunnel in the 1770s in search of lead, but there was little ore and the venture had closed by 1790. The flooded level is now the route of the tour. Guides once pushed the boat along by hand or legged it through; today it is powered by an electric motor. The tunnel ends at the Bottomless Pit, a chamber with an underground lake, a 20 m waterfall and a deep shaft that miners part-filled with spoil. In 2006 cavers connected the Speedwell system to Titan, the UK's largest natural shaft.

Visiting practicalities

The entrance is at the bottom of Winnats Pass, a short walk west of Castleton village. There is a pay car park opposite and a pay-and-display car park with a discount for cavern visitors. Tours involve a long staircase down to the boats, so contact the cavern before visiting if you have mobility concerns. It is cool underground all year, so bring a warm layer. Tickets can be bought online, which is sensible in school holidays; the enquiries line is open daily.

Nearby and combine with

Castleton has three other show caves, including Peak Cavern, plus Peveril Castle above the village. The road up Winnats Pass is a dramatic limestone gorge, and walks to Mam Tor start nearby.

Highlights

• Underground boat trip along a flooded 1770s lead mine
• The Bottomless Pit cavern with lake and 20 m waterfall
• Connected to Titan, the UK's largest natural shaft
• At the foot of Winnats Pass

Good to know

• A long staircase leads down to the boats.
• Pay car parks are by the entrance, with a discount scheme for cavern visitors.
• Cavern enquiries: 01433 623018.

Frequently asked questions