4 MILES FROM PATELEY BRIDGE
Stump Cross
Caverns
Half a million years of geological wonder beneath the moorland above Nidderdale. One of Yorkshire's great show caves and genuinely one of the finest things to do in the area - whatever the weather.
Distance
4 miles from Pateley Bridge
Journey
B6265 towards Grassington, 10 min drive
Open
March to November, daily 10am - 5pm (last entry 4pm). December: weekends only.
Address
Stump Cross Caverns, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate HG3 5JL
What you'll find underground
Half a million years old
The cave system was carved by underground rivers over 500,000 years. Ancient animal bones found here include those of wolverine, reindeer and bison from the last ice age - the caves were a natural trap and shelter for animals long before humans arrived in the valley.
Discovered in 1860
Lead miners from Grassington broke through into the cave system in 1860 while following a vein of ore. They found the caverns completely untouched, their formations glittering in the lamplight. The caves opened to visitors shortly after.
Spectacular formations
The cave trail takes around 40 minutes and passes through chambers with stalactites hanging from the roof and stalagmites growing from the floor. The largest formation took over 100,000 years to grow. Look for the Sleeping Witch, the Wedding Cake and the Christmas Tree - named by early Victorian visitors.
Always the same temperature
The cave stays at a constant 8 degrees Celsius all year round. In summer this makes it refreshingly cool - bring a layer. The air is clean and the humidity is high, which is why the formations are so well preserved.
BEFORE YOU GO
Good to know
Dress for the underground
The cave is 8°C all year. Even in summer, bring a fleece or jacket - most people find it cold after 10 minutes underground.
Suitable for most visitors
The cave trail involves some steps and low sections. Not suitable for wheelchairs. Children must be accompanied at all times. Dogs are welcome in the car park and on the moor above but not inside the caves.
Photography welcome
You can photograph freely inside the caves. The formations are well lit and genuinely photogenic - allow extra time if you want good shots.
On the Grassington road
The caves are on the B6265 between Pateley Bridge and Grassington, on the open moor. There is a signed car park directly on the road. Combine with a visit to Grassington village (15 minutes further) for a full day out.
More things to do on site
The UV Experience
After your cave tour, experience the UV light show - ultraviolet lighting transforms the cave formations into a completely different spectacle, revealing fluorescent minerals invisible under normal light. A genuinely striking effect and popular with children and adults alike.
Stump Cross Mining Co
An interactive activity where you pan for minerals and gems, learning about the history of lead mining in the area. A hands-on experience that teaches the science of mining and the history of the industry in the Dales. Good for all ages.
The Time Cafe
A cave-themed restaurant with a twist - themed dining with stunning views across the Yorkshire Dales. Serving tasty food and refreshing drinks and cocktails, with a wide selection of home-made food. Vegan and vegetarian options available.
The Cinema
A 45-seat cave cinema showing prehistoric-themed films - great for when you want to extend the experience. Your own popcorn can be delivered to your seat. Choose from the caverns' own extensive film library.
When to visit
Spring
One of the best times to visit - the moorland above is coming back to life with bilberry and heather, and the caves are quiet. Combine with a walk across the moor towards Grassington or back down to Nidderdale.
Summer
The cave is wonderfully cool on a hot day and there is parking space for the busier season. The moorland above turns purple with heather in late July and August - the setting is at its most dramatic.
Autumn
The surrounding moor turns golden brown and the long views across the dale are exceptional. The caves are less busy once the school holidays end and the experience feels more intimate.
Winter
Open weekends only in December. A genuinely atmospheric visit in the colder months - the caves are warmer than outside and the moorland landscape after a frost or dusting of snow is extraordinary.
Plan your visit
Stump Cross Caverns is easy to reach from Pateley Bridge - 10 minutes along the B6265. Combine with a walk on the moor above or continue on to Grassington for lunch.