Peak Cavern, Castleton, for families
The Peak Cavern in Castleton, Derbyshire, is spectacular to look at. But it’s the stories on the guided tours that make the experience.
Why visit the Peak Cavern
On a very basic level, the Peak Cavern in Castleton, Derbyshire, is worth visiting purely because it’s a very cool-looking cave. Well, more than one cave, realistically – it’s the entrance to a much longer cave system.
Visitors will get their fair share of stalagmites, stalactites and flowstone, but what makes the Peak Cavern (locally known as the Devil’s Arse) special is the storytelling and history.
The tours begin in the largest cave entrance in the British Isles, which was once home to a community of ropemakers. The guide starts out by demonstrating how the rope was made, using volunteers from the group to help out.
Afterwards, the tour heads into the cave, telling delightfully lurid tales of how Victorian tourists were treated and showing off the passage that was created for Queen Victoria herself to get through.
Visiting the Peak Cavern with children
Generally, kids are going to be more interested by the sections inside the Peak Cavern. The tales of local children being employed to hide in the cave and spook visitors are entertaining, and there’s a greater sense of adventure.
That said, the ropemaking demonstration draws children in after a slow start. It’s somewhat mesmerising watching the rope strands being twisted into something recognisable.
The walk down into the gorge from the centre of Castleton is lovely, too. Budget a bit of time for watching the ducks paddling gamely against the flow in the fast-flowing stream.
Peak Cavern review: The best bit
The highlight of the Peak Cavern tour – certainly in terms of reaction and thrill factor – is when the lights are turned off for a few seconds so everyone can understand just how dark the cave naturally is.
Infants, juniors or secondary?
Infant age children – and certainly toddlers – may struggle to maintain attention during the ropemaking demonstration. They may also find the cave a little scary, but a lot will depend on personality.
Junior age children will have great fun at the Peak Cavern, however, while it’s still a good adventure for older kids.
Peak Cavern entry prices
It’s advisable to buy Peak Cavern tickets in advance to secure a place on the tour. Tickets cost £20 for adults and £12 for children when booked online, or £21.50 and £13 for walk-ins.
Prices were last checked and updated on 20 November 2024.
Full day, half day or a couple of hours?
The tours of the Peak Cavern last 60 to 75 minutes, and should be regarded as one thing to do in Castleton rather than the sole reason for visiting.
Attractions near the Peak Cavern
Other nearby attractions that can be combined with a visit to the Peak Cavern include:
- The other Castleton Caves –Treak Cliff Cavern, Blue John Cavern and Speedwell Cavern.
- Peveril Castle in Castleton.
- Chatsworth House near Bakewell.
- Higger Tor in the Sheffield section of the Peak District.
Nearby cities
The Peak Cavern is in the Derbyshire Peak District.
Other cities within a 90 minute drive of Castleton include Sheffield, Manchester, Bradford, Leeds, Wakefield, Doncaster, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby and Nottingham.
Is it open on Mondays?
The Peak Cavern offers tours daily, with departures on the hour every hour in summer, and three times a day during quieter periods. This availability makes it an excellent choice for something to do with the kids on a teacher training day.
More information
For more information, visit the Peak Cavern website.
