Flood Entrance Pot

Flood Entrance Pot is a cave on the slopes of Ingleborough near the village of Clapham, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire, England. It is one of the entrances to the Gaping Gill system, among the best-known cave networks in Britain. This is a site for experienced cavers, not a casual sightseeing stop.

What is Flood Entrance Pot?

The shaft lies roughly 300 metres south of Gaping Gill Main Shaft. It was the first alternative way into the main system to be explored, and it remains a popular route underground. A rope descent of about 38 metres lands in the South-East Passage of Gaping Gill.

Can beginners go down?

No. This is a vertical cave that calls for single-rope technique, proper caving kit and underground experience. Visitors without that background can still see Gaping Gill through the winch meets, where the organising club provides the descent, but they should not attempt Flood Entrance on their own.

How do you get permission?

According to the Council of Northern Caving Clubs (CNCC), the cave is open all year, but every trip has to be booked in advance under a managed-access arrangement with the landowner. One booking is accepted per entrance per day. Bookings go through the CNCC online calendar, and email requests need the administrator's confirmation before you travel.

Twice a year a winch meet runs over the system: Bradford Pothole Club hosts it in May and Craven Pothole Club in August. During these events the host club handles access to several entrances, Flood Entrance among them. CNCC notes that the original Flood entrance sees less traffic nowadays and that the neighbouring Flood Entrance (Wades) is the more popular option. Always check the current CNCC rules before planning a trip.

How do you reach the area?

Start from Clapham in North Yorkshire. Paths climb the flank of Ingleborough towards Gaping Gill. The ground is open moorland with changeable weather, so carry warm layers, a map and a head torch.

What protections apply?

The cave sits inside the Ingleborough Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Conservation restrictions apply, so keep to established routes and leave no trace of your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Flood Entrance Pot? About 300 metres south of the Gaping Gill Main Shaft, on Ingleborough near Clapham.

How deep is the descent? The main pitch is around 38 metres and ends in the South-East Passage.

Do I need to book? Yes. The cave is open year-round, but you must reserve through CNCC beforehand.

Is it suitable for beginners? No. It requires rope skills and caving experience. Beginners can use the winch during the organised Gaping Gill meets instead.