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Chislehurst Caves are a network of limestone caves located at Caveside Cl, Old Hill, Chislehurst BR7 5NL. The caves have been open to the public since 1879 and are now managed by Friends of Chislehurst Caves Ltd (FoCC). You can explore the five main caves; Lower Gill Wood, Upper Gill Wood, Castle Rock Cave, Abney’s Grotto and Long Wood Cave. Each is unique with a different history and range of features. In addition to exploring the natural beauty of these underground marvels you can also take part in events such as Night Time Exploring and Discovering with FOCL. These activities let you experience what life was like for people living in the area at the time.
The caves vary in size and depth but are accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels – a fantastic read. If you have knee, ankle or back problems, or are pregnant, you may wish to give the caves a miss. There are also some rules to keep in mind. Most caves have a maximum of 12 people inside at a time. Group sizes are limited to maintain safety for visitors, staff and the caves themselves. All visitors must wear hard-soled shoes and appropriate clothing for the environment. If you have a disability, or expect to be in a wheelchair, talk to the staff beforehand. Visitors enter through the Lower Gill Wood entrance and then head along the Pathway to the lower level of the cave. This is where you will be able to see the cave’s impressive array of stalagmites and stalactites. The path is normally kept clear. You can also take a look at the tour information boards and a few examples of how the caves were used in the past.
Explore the Caves on a regular tour with FOCL. These are led by experts and can be suitably tailored to suit your interests and interests. You can even arrange a private tour for you and your friends or family. You can meet for a walk around the lower caves, or for an exploration of the Upper Gill Wood and Castle Rock Cave. The Caves are open to the public from March to October. You can get more information on opening times and events from the website, twitter or Instagram pages. There is also a helpful FAQ page.
If you are interested in exploring the caves but not sure where to start there is a guided walk in Upper Gill Wood. This walk is tailored for people with a basic understanding of cave exploration. The walk runs for approximately 1 hour, including a visit to Long Wood Cave. There are other options on the guided walks with varying lengths and themes. You can also explore the caves with your family or friends. You can bring a blanket or preferred exploration item to help you get the most out of your visit. You can even hire a rope and harness so you can explore the caves at your own pace.
If you want to experience the wonder of Chislehurst Caves but want a smaller group, there are group cave days. These typically take place on a Saturday and cost £22 per person. There are options for people to come and go as they like. People can also choose to stay for the whole day at their own pace. This is a great option for those with disabilities who may find the caves challenging. There is also something for the whole family to enjoy; from crafts, to caving and even a visit from a live animal.
Chislehurst Caves is an amazing place to visit. The caves are huge and can be explored by yourself or with a group of friends. They are also open to the public all year round. The caves are a real discovery for visitors and have an array of features to explore. From tall stalactites to a deep underground river and the world’s longest and most complete underground river system, there is something for everyone to explore. For people who want to go even deeper, there is also a night walk. The Chislehurst Caves are not just a place to explore; they are a living treasure. The caves are home to a diverse range of wildlife including bats, crayfish, millipedes, bats and even a colony of moths. There is also a team of naturalists who work to protect and conserve the Chislehurst Caves. You can explore this amazing place with friends and family.