The caves at Stumps Cross were then discovered in 1860 by miners who were looking for lead seams in the Yorkshire Dales. Although they didn’t find any lead, they did find the natural caverns which you can see today.
The cave system at Stump Cross extends well beyond the show caves which are open to the public, to an overall length of approximately 6km. Many of the deeper caverns are only accessible to experienced cavers, but there is a possibility of further sections of the caverns being opened to the public in the future. Indeed, the impressive reindeer cavern was opened to the public in 2000 after debris was removed and the cave was made safe.
Remains of Wolverines, a giant member of the weasel family, have been discovered at Stump Cross. It is thought that these animals entered the caves looking for food such as Reindeer and Bison, the remains of which have also been found. The Wolverine remains are on display in the visitor’s centre.
Pushchairs and baby back carriers are not permitted due to restricted access, however front carriers are permitted.
Stump Cross Caverns, Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge
Harrogate, North Yorkshire
HG3 5JL
01756 752780
