How many caverns are in the Peak District?
The Heights of Abraham is an impressive hilltop in Matlock Bath, just on the edge of the Peak District. There are two show caverns on the estate, the Great Masson Cavern and the Great Rutland Cavern. There are regular guided tours of both caves where you can learn about their history.
Can I Mine Blue John?
Regular mining of Blue John has been carried out in the cavern since the 18th century. Technology has improved with time but great skill is still needed to obtain the mineral… Pictured below are shots taken during mining in Treak Cliff Cavern in January and November 2014.
How many caves are there in Castleton?
4 caves
There are 4 caves at Castleton accessible by guided tour. Treak Cliff cavern and Blue John cavern contain beautiful caves decorated with stalactites formations, and blue john stone. Peak cavern is the resurgence of a huge river system. In its enormous entrance are the remains of a rope-making walk.
How many caves are in Castleton?
four caves
The four caves all have different qualities, fascinating heritage and very interesting interior and are a must for any visitor to Castleton. Their names are Blue John Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Peak Cavern, also known affectionately as the Devils Arse!
What is a Blue John stone?
Blue John (also known as Derbyshire Spar) is a semi-precious mineral, a rare form of fluorite with bands of a purple-blue or yellowish colour. In the UK it is found only at Blue John Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern at Castleton in Derbyshire.
Why is it called Blue John?
The most common explanation for the name is that it derives from the French bleu-jaune, meaning ‘blue-yellow’. The story goes that Blue John was exported to France where it was used by ormolu workers during the reign of Louis XVI (1774–91).
Where are the best caves to visit in the Peak District?
Thor’s Cave is one of the most impressive caves you can visit for free in the Peak District. It’s also the picture on the OL24 map if you’ve ever wondered where that photo was taken. The cave is the largest cave that you can visit in the Peak District (without paying for a tour!)
How do I get to the Edale valley?
Turn left at Mam Nick into the Edale Valley.Accessible by Public Transport: Edale station is 0 miles away.
What are the best caverns in England?
The Castleton caves are some of the best show caverns in the country, and is home to Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Blue John Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern.
How many camping sites are there in Edale?
There are two camping sites in Edale as well as others in outlying ‘booths’. Located in Edale, the Moorlands Visitor Centre is both a tourist information centre and flagship centre – a national focus for moorland research and an inspirational experience for visitors to the Peak District National Park.