GB Cave

GB Cave is a locked limestone cave in the Mendip Hills of Somerset, England, set between the villages of Charterhouse and Shipham a few kilometres from Cheddar. It is a site for experienced cavers rather than a ticketed attraction, so it helps to know what to expect before you plan a visit.

What is GB Cave?

The cave runs for roughly 1,950 m and drops about 134 m below the surface. It ranks among the region's major caves and is catalogued by the Mendip Cave Registry. Do not confuse it with Gough's Cave in Cheddar Gorge, the lit show cave with a walkway for visitors. GB lies elsewhere and is a very different kind of place.

How was it found?

Cavers first entered on 19 November 1939, after about ten months of digging by members of the University of Bristol Spelæological Society. The cave is named after two society members who did most of the digging. A first survey followed in 1943, and in 1951 the society produced another by Bendall and Crickmay.

What is inside?

Two spaces stand out. The Gorge is a broad passage cut by an ancient stream, and it leads into the Main Chamber. For decades these were thought to be the largest open space known under the Mendips, until a bigger chamber turned up in Reservoir Hole in 2012. The cave is also known for its rich formations, which is why entry is controlled.

Can you go in?

Only with a permit. Access is run by the Charterhouse Caving Company, a consortium of Mendip clubs. It began as the Charterhouse Caving Committee, set up at the request of Bristol Water, which then owned the land. The land now belongs to the Somerset Wildlife Trust, and the company holds a lease and issues permits to member clubs. Eleven caving clubs are represented in its management.

The rules for GB Cave are strict:

• groups are limited to six people,
• novices are not allowed,
• carbide lamps are banned,
• permits are issued online before the trip, free of charge.

Rules change from time to time, so check the Charterhouse Caving Company website before you travel.

When should you go, and how should you prepare?

The date is arranged with the club applying for your permit. The cave demands underground experience and proper equipment. If you are not a caver, Gough's Cave or Cox's Cave in Cheddar are the open options for visitors.

Frequently asked questions

Is GB Cave open to tourists?

No. The entrance is locked, and only experienced groups with a permit can visit.

Who issues permits?

The Charterhouse Caving Company. Permits are electronic and free, with group-size limits.

Is it the same as Gough's Cave?

No. Gough's Cave is the show cave in Cheddar Gorge. GB Cave is near Charterhouse and Shipham.

When was GB Cave discovered?

On 19 November 1939, after roughly ten months of digging by Bristol cavers.