Dan yr Ogof

Dan yr Ogof is a show cave system at Pen y Cae in south Wales, inside Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. It forms the core of the National Showcaves Centre for Wales, which is regarded as the largest show cave complex in the UK. The whole system runs for roughly 17 km, yet visitors only walk the opening stretch. Everything beyond is a nature reserve reserved for experienced cavers.

What will you see at Dan yr Ogof?

One ticket covers three separate caves.

• Dan-yr-Ogof Cave – a lit path of just under a kilometre, passing formations with names like the Rasher of Bacon, the Angel and the Alabaster Pillar.
• Cathedral Cave – a tall chamber holding a lake fed by two waterfalls. The route ends behind the falling water at the Dome of St Paul's, and most visitors rate it the highlight.
• Bone Cave – exhibits on how people used the cave, from Bronze Age burials (42 skeletons were found) to Roman-era finds, alongside remains of hyenas and cave bears.

Is there anything besides caves?

Yes. The same ticket opens up a set of above-ground attractions. The Dinosaur Park has more than 200 life-size models (sources give differing counts). You will also find a Shire Horse Centre, an Iron Age village, a museum and play areas. A nine-hole mini golf course is available separately. That makes the site an easy choice for a family day out.

How do you get there?

The centre sits about 5 miles (8 km) north of Ystradgynlais and 15 miles (24 km) south-west of Brecon, in the upper Swansea Valley. Driving is the simplest option, and parking on site is free.

When should you visit, and how long does it take?

Underground temperatures stay cool and steady whatever the weather outside, so bring a warm layer and sturdy shoes. Allow most of a day if you want to see all three caves and the park. Opening hours vary by season, so check showcaves.co.uk or phone ahead. The operator advises booking tickets online before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Can you explore the entire cave system? No. Only the first section is open to the public. The remainder is protected as a nature reserve and is open to cavers only.

How many caves does the ticket include? Three: Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave and Bone Cave. Surface attractions such as the dinosaur park and Iron Age village are included too.

Where is Dan yr Ogof? At Pen y Cae, near Abercraf in Powys, within Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and about 24 km from Brecon.

Is there parking? Yes, free parking is provided at the site.