Yordas Cave

Yordas Cave sits near the head of Kingsdale in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire, a short drive from Ingleton. Visitors have come to see it since the 1700s, and in the 1800s it operated as a show cave. Today it draws cavers, walkers and outdoor-activity groups.

What will you see inside Yordas Cave?

A few steps lead down through an archway into the main chamber, where a stream runs across the floor. At the far end a waterfall of roughly 9 metres drops into a lower chamber called the Chapter House, the cave's signature feature. Without caving skills you can only explore the main chamber and the waterfall; anything beyond calls for proper equipment and experience.

According to surveys, the stream sinks underground and feeds the Kingsdale Master Cave system, reappearing at Keld Head about 2.7 km down the valley.

Where does the name come from, and what is its history?

One explanation ties the name to a Norse giant called Yordas; another traces it to an Old Norse phrase meaning "earth stream". Richard Pococke wrote about the cave in 1751, and carved inscriptions are dated as far back as 1653. Its Victorian show-cave days began around the 1840s. Local lore also says Charlotte Brontë visited and that the cave inspired a scene in Jane Eyre, though no documentation supports this.

How do you get to Yordas Cave?

There is a roadside layby in Kingsdale, and the cave lies a short uphill walk away. The route is not signposted. From the layby, go through a gate into a field, bear right up the grassy slope and reach a second gate after about 150 m; the entrance is a few metres beyond. The cave is on private farmland, but no permit is required. Visitors are expected to behave responsibly, close gates and take litter home.

When should you go and what should you bring?

It is dark and wet inside, so bring a good torch and waterproof boots. Flooding is the main hazard: after heavy rain the water can rise by around 2 metres. Skip the visit if heavy rain is forecast or has just fallen.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a ticket or permission to visit Yordas Cave? No. The cave is on private land, but visitors may go in without asking, provided they act responsibly.

Is the cave difficult? The approach is short and easy, and the main chamber with the waterfall needs no caving skills. Deeper sections are for experienced cavers only.

Where can you park? In the roadside layby in Kingsdale, a short walk from the entrance. Do not block farm entrances.

Can the cave flood? Yes. After heavy rainfall the water level rises quickly, so check the forecast before you set out.