Rumbling Hole

Rumbling Hole is a vertical cave on Leck Fell, north-east of Lancaster in Lancashire, inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is one of the better-known entrances in north-west England for cavers, and it is strictly for experienced people with proper equipment, not a casual visitor attraction.

What is Rumbling Hole?

The entrance is a fenced shaft roughly 50 metres deep. From there the cave drops through a series of pitches to a low, wet passage. Published figures put the total depth above 120 metres, while quoted passage lengths vary between sources, so check the current survey entry in a cave register before planning a trip.

The streamway at the bottom was pushed through awkward bends and short ducks into Lost Johns' Cave, which links it to the Three Counties System. That network runs for about 87 kilometres beneath the borders of Cumbria, Lancashire and North Yorkshire. The connection was made in the 1980s.

What can you see on the surface?

Above ground there is only a fenced opening in open, grassy moorland. Going underground is reserved for teams carrying ropes, harnesses and lights. Everyone else is better off walking the fell for wide views over the Dales and the Lune valley, and spotting the other cave entrances scattered across the moor.

How do you get there?

The entrance lies at about 54.207 N, 2.505 W. Drive from Lancaster and the Lune valley towards the village of Leck, then continue on minor roads to the edge of the moor. The last stretch is on foot over rough ground with no waymarked path, so bring a map, sturdy boots and a current weather forecast.

Can you go inside?

Only as a caving trip. The cave contains vertical sections that need rope technique, and the lower passages flood after rain. Trips are timed for settled weather and run with an experienced club or guide. Access on the Dales fells depends on landowners and on guidance from the national caving bodies, and parts of the surrounding land have nature protection status. Contact a local caving club or check British Caving Association advice before you set out.

When should you go?

Dry spells in late spring and summer keep water levels low. After prolonged rain or snowmelt the cave is dangerous and the moor is boggy.

Frequently asked questions

Is Rumbling Hole open to the public? No. The shaft is fenced, and descending requires caving skills and gear. Casual visitors can only explore the surrounding fell.

What does the cave connect to? Lost Johns' Cave, and through it the Three Counties System that spans three counties.

How deep is the entrance shaft? About 50 metres, and it is fenced for safety.

Are there marked paths to the site? The approach crosses open moorland without clear paths, so you need a map or GPS.