Poole's Cavern

Poole's Cavern is a natural limestone show cave on the edge of Buxton, Derbyshire, inside the Peak District. The rock and its formations are some two million years old, and today the cave is open for guided walks at the foot of Grin Low hill.

What will you see inside?

The route follows lit passages along the banks of the underground River Wye, which emerges from a boulder choke at the end of the tour. Your guide explains the geology, fossils and colourful cave walls. Highlights include a cathedral-sized main chamber and a range of dripstone formations, among them the Flitch of Bacon, a stalactite that was broken off by careless visitors long ago.

Why is it called Poole's Cavern?

The name comes from Poole, a 15th-century outlaw said to have sheltered here. People used the cave far earlier: finds point to Neolithic and Bronze Age activity, and evidence of Roman-British use as well. Local tradition also links the cave to Mary, Queen of Scots. It became a tourist attraction in 1853, when the 6th Duke of Devonshire appointed Frank Redfern as custodian, and the Redfern family looked after it for about 120 years.

How long does the tour take and how should you plan?

Guided tours last roughly 45 to 50 minutes, and tickets are booked online in advance. Opening hours change with the season and differ between listings, so check poolescavern.co.uk before you travel. The cave is cool and damp all year, so bring a warm layer and shoes with good grip.

What else is nearby?

Buxton Country Park surrounds the cave, with woodland paths. At the top of Grin Low, about 439 m above sea level, stands Solomon's Temple, a viewing folly built in 1895 with money raised by public subscription. The climb is moderately demanding, with some steep sections and steps, and rewards you with wide views. Remains of the area's lime-burning industry are visible on the hillside.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The cave lies on the outskirts of Buxton, a spa town in north-west Derbyshire. It is a few minutes by car from the town centre, and the country park trails start right next to the cave.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. Visits are by guided tour, and tickets are bought online ahead of time.

How long is the tour?

About 45 to 50 minutes.

Where does the name come from?

From Poole, a 15th-century robber who, according to tradition, lived in the cave.

Can I combine the visit with a walk?

Yes. From the cave you can enter Buxton Country Park and follow the path up Grin Low to Solomon's Temple.