Caves around Rowsley offer access to a diverse range of underground attractions within the Peak District. Rowsley serves as a central point for exploring both natural rock shelters and commercial show caves in the wider Derbyshire area. The region is known for its limestone geology, which has created numerous cave systems. These sites provide insights into geological formations and historical uses, including lead mining and natural shelters.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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A short but exciting scramble up the rocky outcrop behind Birchover village leads to Rowtor Rocks, a wonderland of weirdly carved boulders, hidden tunnels, secret steps, and a proper little cave once used by a 17th-century vicar who liked to play at being a druid. Kids from age 4 absolutely love it here – there’s endless climbing, squeezing through narrow gaps, discovering carved chairs and altars, and plenty of “secret cave” excitement without it ever feeling too big or overwhelming. The paths are short, the rocks are grippy, and little legs can explore to their heart’s content while parents keep an easy eye from just a few metres away. Bring wellies or grippy shoes after rain (it can be slippy) and let the kids lead the adventure – they’ll be talking about their “druid cave mission” for weeks
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• A small but striking natural arch carved by erosion in a gritstone outcrop. • Dimensions: • Span: ~3–4 meters wide • Height: ~2 meters at center • Thickness: ~1 meter • Formed over thousands of years by frost weathering and water seepage along joints in the rock. • Overgrown with moss, ferns, and small trees — blends perfectly into the woodland
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19th century pleasure ground which exploited the dramatic qualities of the Derwent valley. Peter Arkwright of Willersley Castle enclosed the grounds c 1860 and constructed pedestrian paths from a new entrance on the south side approached from the bridge to Matlock Bath railway station. The entrance from Starkholmes Road was retained and could be used by carriages. A pathway was formed through Fern Cave (scheduled ancient monument) and another on a narrow ledge along part of the cliff face. In 1879 the grounds were leased to the Matlock and High Tor Recreation Grounds Company Ltd and Milner of London was retained to supervise landscaping. Arkwright's Grand Walk, also used by carriages, was created, leading south to the summit from a gateway in Pig Tree Lane, now Pic Tor Lane. A refreshment room was erected near the summit, tennis and quoit or skittle grounds were constructed close to a modified southern entrance and additional paths put in with a broad flight of steps.
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A nice place for a little scramble...and a great view at the top. Rowtor Rocks consists of numerous interlinked tunnels and caverns, some natural and some man-made. Many of the rocks have been carved with symbols and pictures, including serpents, circles and cups. A series of steps, thrones and altars have also been fashioned out of the stone in a number of places.
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The footpath along the summit is commonly known as Giddy Edge, unfenced and not recommended for small children . There is a small metal handrail afixed to the inside edge (of the cliff) totally spectacular.
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The Delf is a natural valley that runs south from the idyllic Peak District village of Eyam. A short way down it is Cucklet Delf (which I’ve also seen spelt ‘Cucklett’ or ‘Delph’), a beautiful limestone craglet that forms a cavern with two large arches. From 1666, the larger of two archways became the pulpit for the twenty-seven-year-old village rector, William Mompesson. From here, he could preach into the valley and be heard by his congregation, gathered in disparate family groups on the opposite hillside. Throughout the outbreak of the plague, this crag — and, in fact, this whole section of the Delf — became the Cucklet Church.
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Near Rowsley, you can explore a diverse range of underground attractions. These include natural rock shelters like Lathkill Head Cave and commercial show caves such as Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Cavern in Castleton, or the caverns at the Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath. The region offers both geological wonders and sites with historical significance.
Yes, the Peak District is renowned for its unique geology. Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Cavern in Castleton are two of only two places in the world where the semi-precious mineral Blue John Stone can be found. Poole's Cavern in Buxton also boasts brilliant crystal stalactites.
For a historical insight, Rowtor Rocks features impressive sculpting completed by local parson Thomas Eyre centuries ago, including caves, rooms, and tunnels. The Great Rutland Cavern at the Heights of Abraham provides insight into 17th-century lead mining through Victorian-guided tours. Additionally, Cucklet Delf Natural Arch served as an outdoor pulpit during the 1665 plague outbreak in Eyam.
Many show caves are family-friendly, offering guided tours and facilities. Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave is particularly popular with children, offering a fun scramble through carved boulders, tunnels, and secret steps. The Heights of Abraham, accessible by cable car, combines underground exploration with a hilltop park experience suitable for families.
Thor's Cave near Wetton is a popular natural cave for hikers, offering expansive views in the Manifold Valley. Reynard's Cave in Dovedale is another natural rock shelter accessible via a climb from the main footpath, believed to have been used since prehistoric times. These require more adventurous exploration than show caves.
Yes, Speedwell Cavern in Castleton offers a unique underground boat trip experience. Visitors descend 106 steps before boarding a boat that navigates through a flooded cave system, 200 meters below ground, exploring a former lead mine.
The area around Rowsley is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various cycling routes, including gravel biking and touring, such as those detailed in the Gravel biking around Rowsley and Cycling around Rowsley guides. There are also many hiking opportunities, including easy hikes like those found in the Easy hikes around Rowsley guide, which can lead to natural caves or viewpoints like High Tor and Giddy Edge.
Most show caves are open year-round, making them a good option regardless of the season. Natural caves like Thor's Cave or Reynard's Cave are best visited during drier weather to ensure safer hiking conditions, though they can be accessed in winter with appropriate gear. Always check individual cave opening times and conditions before your visit.
For show caves, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are generally sufficient, as temperatures underground are consistently cool. For natural caves or more adventurous explorations, wear layers, waterproof outerwear, and robust hiking boots with good grip. A headlamp or torch is also advisable for natural, unlit caves.
Yes, High Tor and Giddy Edge offers spectacular views over Matlock Bath, though parts of the footpath are unfenced. Thor's Cave provides expansive views of the Manifold Valley, and Robin Hood's Cave on Stanage Edge also offers wonderful landscape vistas from its unique 'balcony' area.
Peak Cavern, also known as 'The Devil's Arse,' in Castleton, is one of the largest natural cave systems in the Peak District. It's unique for its historic rope works and for hosting regular concerts and events within its vast chambers. Its evocative original name comes from the unique sounds heard as floodwaters drain.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Rowsley: