Bakers Pit

Baker's Pit is a cave near Buckfastleigh in Devon, south-west England, within the Teignbridge district. It belongs to the Buckfastleigh cave system, one of the most significant groups of caves in the region. This is a site for cavers rather than a ticketed visitor attraction with guided tours.

What is Baker's Pit?

The cave formed in limestone, where water carved a maze of near-horizontal passages. It was first opened up in 1847, when quarrying at Baker's Pit cut into natural voids. It is one of two large quarries that sliced through the same system, the other being Higher Kiln Quarry.

The system also includes Reed's Cave, Disappointment Cave, Rift Cave, Spider's Hole and Joint Mitnor Cave. Together the passages run for several kilometres across multiple levels. Baker's Pit is regarded as one of the largest caves in Devon and has a reputation as a good introduction for novice cavers.

What else is nearby?

Neighbouring Joint Mitnor Cave, also called Bone Cave, is known for animal bones from the last interglacial, the Ipswichian. Excavations there began in 1939-41, and the finds rank among the richest of their kind in Britain. Higher Kiln Quarry is owned by Devon Wildlife Trust, and the William Pengelly Cave Studies Trust runs a cave studies centre on the site.

Why is the cave protected?

Buckfastleigh Caves have been a Site of Special Scientific Interest since 1964, covering about 26 hectares. They are also part of the South Hams Special Area of Conservation. The reason is horseshoe bats, above all the greater horseshoe bat, which roosts here. A radio-tracking study in 2003 showed that bats from these caves forage several kilometres away.

Can you visit?

Baker's Pit is not run as a show cave. Some entrances are closed, and access is restricted to protect the bats and for safety. Going underground calls for experience and organisation, ideally through a caving club or a guided expedition. Ordinary visitors can still explore the Buckfastleigh area and look out for events held locally, such as bat activity days.

When should you go?

Underground the temperature stays steady all year, so timing depends mostly on surface weather and on arranging access. Remember that bats hibernate in winter, when the caves need particular protection.

Frequently asked questions

Is Baker's Pit open to tourists?

Not as a tourist cave. Entry is meant for organised caving groups.

Where is Baker's Pit?

Near Buckfastleigh in Devon, in Teignbridge, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Which caves is it connected to?

Reed's Cave and other parts of the Buckfastleigh system. Joint Mitnor Cave lies in the same system, in Higher Kiln Quarry.

Why is the area protected?

For its bat colonies, especially greater horseshoe bats, and for its geological and palaeontological value.