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About this place
Rhino Rift is a deep vertical cave near Charterhouse, close to Cheddar, in the Mendip Hills of Somerset, England. It is a destination for experienced cavers rather than a sightseeing stop.
What is Rhino Rift?
The cave lies in Carboniferous Limestone and sits within the Cheddar Complex SSSI. It reaches a depth of roughly 147 m, with several hundred metres of passage in total. Its layout is a chain of vertical shafts, and the Mendip Cave Registry notes that it feels closer to a Yorkshire pothole than to the typically horizontal caves of the region. At the bottom, the system ends in a small, choked phreatic tube.
Where does the name come from, and who found it?
The name comes from bones of extinct animals uncovered during earlier excavations by the University of Bristol Spelaeological Society. Members of the Wessex Cave Club broke into the cave proper in 1971 after a dig. A 1984 uranium-series dating study places the cave's formation more than 75,000 years ago, with its lower fill younger than about 45,000 years.
What is the route like underground?
The core of the trip is three main pitches that add up to a descent of about 84 m. They are rigged for single-rope technique (SRT), so you need your own kit, rope-work experience and the ability to judge anchor condition. The operators have previously warned about unsafe bolts on the right-hand route, which has since been rebolted.
How do you get in?
The cave is locked, and the Charterhouse Caving Company, which looks after caves around Charterhouse, controls access. Trips must be arranged in advance, and digging requires the company's permission. On the surface, the area is rolling limestone upland with a wide footpath network and views toward Cheddar Gorge.
When is the best time to go?
Underground temperature stays steady all year, so the weather on the day matters more than the season. After heavy rain, some shafts can run wet, which is why cavers tend to choose dry spells.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rhino Rift suitable for beginners?
No. The descent through three pitches demands SRT skills and experience. Beginners will find easier caves nearby, including guided trips.
How deep is it?
About 147 m, with the main pitches making up a descent of around 84 m.
Who controls access?
The Charterhouse Caving Company. The cave is locked and entry must be arranged.
Why is it called Rhino Rift?
The name refers to bones of extinct animals found during earlier excavations at the site.
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