Slaughter Stream Cave

Slaughter Stream Cave, also called Wet Sink, lies in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, at roughly 51.82 N, 2.61 W. It is among the longest cave systems in the area and a destination for experienced cavers, not a casual visitor attraction. The entrance is gated and entry needs a permit.

What is Slaughter Stream Cave?

A limestone cave system in the Wye Valley part of the Forest of Dean. Sources put the surveyed passage at about 12 to 13 km, with a vertical range near 100 m (some give 110 m). It is the most extensive cave known in its catchment, and its water emerges at the Slaughter Rising on the east bank of the River Wye, south of Symonds Yat.

What is inside?

The route descends by fixed ladders and two pitches. Beyond them come lively streamways, sandy crawls and dry fossil passages. The cave also has scientific standing: it has been described as a candidate Geological Conservation Review site. Archaeological finds include a dog skeleton the cavers nicknamed "Norman".

How was it explored?

Most of the surveying took place around 1991 to 1993, by the Gloucestershire Speleological Society and the Royal Forest of Dean Caving Club. Another 1.9 km or so was found and mapped between 1997 and 2000. A re-survey and studies of how the cave formed are under way. Dye tracing by local clubs linked the swallet to the risings.

Can you visit?

Wet Sink is owned by the Forest of Dean Caving Club Conservation Group (FoDCCAG), and a permit system controls access. You need a key and a permit, which BCA members obtain through the group's permits contact. The group says the cave is currently restricted mainly to people involved in exploration and conservation. Check fodccag.org.uk for current rules before planning a trip, and do not attempt the cave on your own.

What are the hazards?

• Sewage: a 2008 Oxford University caving club report notes that the nearby treatment works sometimes diverted sewage into the cave. Do not drink the water.
• Pitches and ladders: these call for proper kit and experience.
• Water levels: the stream can rise quickly after rain.

What else is nearby?

The Wye Valley around Symonds Yat offers viewpoints, canoeing and climbing. At the southern end of the Symonds Yat cliffs, Forestry England and the BMC have lifted an earlier climbing closure, but the stretch from Introductory Rocks to Bowlers Hole stays closed because of unstable rock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Slaughter Stream Cave open to tourists? No. It is gated and permit-only, mainly for cavers.

How long is it? About 12 to 13 km of surveyed passage, roughly 100 m deep.

Who manages access? FoDCCAG, which owns Wet Sink. BCA members apply through its permits contact.

Is it safe? It is a demanding cave with ladders, pitches and a stream, plus a risk of sewage in the water. Go only with an experienced team.