Two worlds beneath the hills
We run two very different kinds of trip in the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales. This page helps you choose between them and explains how booking works — then dive into the dedicated pages for the full picture.
Caves or mines?
Both are led by qualified leaders with all kit provided. The difference is the feel of the trip.
Wild caving
Active, water-carved limestone — more physical and adventurous, never quite the same twice.
- Crawling, climbing & wading
- Formations & geology
- System confirmed nearer the time
Mine exploration
Drier, story-led and steeped in heritage — mostly walking, with known and predictable routes.
- Lead & fluorspar history
- Mostly walking, less squeezing
- Great for a first trip underground
Open, women-only or private
Open trips
Book an individual place on a scheduled date and join others — perfect for solo bookers and small groups.
Women-only dates
Scheduled trips with a women-only group and leaders, throughout the season.
Private trips
Your own group on a date that suits you — friends, groups, clubs and corporate days.
Protecting what lies beneath
Caves and mines are fragile, irreplaceable places — formations take thousands of years to grow and can be destroyed in a moment. Looking after them is part of every trip we run, and something we share with everyone who comes underground with us.
Tread lightly
We move carefully through these beautiful, delicate environments — sticking to established routes underground, avoiding sensitive areas and leaving features exactly as we find them.
Leave no trace
What goes in with us comes out with us. We take all litter home, never leave spent batteries or kit behind, and aim to leave each cave and mine cleaner than we found it.
Protect the formations
Stalactites, flowstone and crystals are easily damaged — even the natural oils on our hands can stop them growing. We look, photograph and admire, but we don't touch.
Wildlife comes first
Caves and mines are home to bats and other specialised creatures. We keep our distance, avoid disturbing roosts, and respect seasonal restrictions that protect hibernating bats.
Respect access & heritage
Many systems are looked after under access agreements and conservation schemes, and mines are irreplaceable industrial heritage. We follow the rules that keep these places open and protected for everyone.
Educate & inspire
We don't just pass through — we explain why these places matter and how to enjoy them responsibly, so every trip helps grow the next generation of caretakers for the underground world.
Decided, or still not sure?
Browse upcoming dates for both caves and mines, or tell us what you're after and we'll point you the right way.