Opening Times

10:00 - 16:00 Wednesday to Sunday, open every day during school holidays.

What makes this a great venue for School group Fun or Educational Visits?

The caves are open all year as the weather is no problem underground. The guided tours cover many aspects of the curriculum from simple light and dark, right up to the Second World War. During the war the caves were one of the largest air-raid shelters in the country housing up to 15,000 people at the height of the blitz. They were even mentioned by “Lord Haw Haw” in one of his infamous radio broadcasts. Subsequently the caves were a popular music venue in the 1950’s 60’s and 70’.

What are the Curriculum Topics or Benefit to the students from a visit?

As most of the caves are unlit, our tours are conducted by lamplight helping bring history to life and sparking the young visitor’s imagination. The Hurricane Lanterns used for this purpose are very atmospheric and perfectly safe provided they are handled with care by adults.

What are the activities?

We offer a 45 minute lamp-lit guided tour of the cave system.

What is the age range of the activities?

Suitable from 5 to adult.

What are the minimum and maximum group sizes and the free Teacher Ratio?

No minimum group size, but there is a minimum charge of £50. Maximum group size of around 40 people.

Do you have or how do you arrange risk assessment?

A generic risk assessment is available, if your school has already booked then we are happy for one or two teachers to join a public tour free of charge for the purpose of risk assessment. If your school has not booked a tour with us, the teachers would have to buy tickets, but the cost would be
refunded on booking.

What facilities are there for school groups for food and drink, shop etc?

Picnic tables are available outside, benches available indoors if the weather is bad.

Is specific clothing required?

Sensible shoes and warm clothing are recommended, the temperature in the caves is 10 degrees Celsius 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do you have first aid on site?

Most of our staff have first aid training, but we recommend you bring your own first aider if possible as they will be more familiar with your group.

Are there any restrictions on photos, copyright etc?

The use of still or video cameras during the tour is not a problem providing it does not delay the tour.