Reed's cave

Reed's Cave is a limestone cave inside Higher Kiln Quarry, just outside Buckfastleigh on the edge of Dartmoor, Devon (Teignbridge district, England). The old quarry is now a nature reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This is not a show cave with tickets and lighting. It is a prized site for cavers and naturalists, and getting in takes planning.

What is Reed's Cave?

The cave opens in the side of Buckfastleigh Hill and belongs to a cluster of caves tied to Higher Kiln Quarry. Its neighbours include Disappointment Cave, Rift Cave, Spider's Hole and Joint Mitnor Cave, and together they form a network of more than 2 km of passages. Reed's Cave and nearby Baker's Pit account for most of the system beneath the hill. The Pengelly Trust puts the combined passages on several levels at around 5 km. A former link with Baker's Pit has been sealed with concrete.

What will you see inside?

The cave is known for its rich calcite decoration. The best-known feature is the Little Man formation, found beyond Easter Chamber. One source places it directly below the tomb of the Cabell family on the hillside above. There is a biological highlight too: Wikipedia records Pseudosinella dobati here, Devon's only true cave-adapted springtail.

Can you go in?

Access is restricted. The cave is gated and entered with a leader, and trips are mainly for experienced cavers, with some entries offered in the summer months. The William Pengelly Cave Studies Trust runs the Cave Studies Centre at the quarry under a long-term lease, so contact them well in advance. Do not try to enter independently.

How do you get there?

Higher Kiln Quarry lies beside Buckfastleigh, a small town on the south-eastern edge of Dartmoor, close to Holy Trinity church and the Cabell tomb. By car, take the A38 from Exeter or Plymouth and follow signs into town. The South Devon Railway heritage steam line also ends at Buckfastleigh.

When should you visit?

With summer the main season and visits set by arrangement, aim for late spring to early autumn. The cave stays cool all year, so wear warm layers and clothes you do not mind getting muddy. Helmets and lights are normally supplied by the organiser.

Frequently asked questions

Is Reed's Cave open to the general public? Not on a regular basis. Entry is with a leader, mostly for cavers, with some trips in summer.

Who do I book with? The William Pengelly Cave Studies Trust, which manages the study centre at Higher Kiln Quarry.

What is the main attraction? The cave formations, including the unique Little Man beyond Easter Chamber, and the rare cave-dwelling fauna.

What else is nearby? The Devon Wildlife Trust reserve in the quarry, Buckfastleigh town, Dartmoor and the South Devon Railway. If you want an easy, ticketed cave visit, try Kents Cavern in Torquay.