Top 6 Caves around Cromford
Best caves around Cromford provide access to a range of underground attractions, from historical lead mines to natural rock formations. The area, nestled in Derbyshire, offers unique subterranean experiences. Visitors can explore sites that highlight the region's mining heritage and natural geology. Cromford serves as a base for discovering these diverse underground environments.
Best caves around Cromford
- The most popular caves is High Tor and Giddy Edge, a viewpoint and cave that offers impressive views over Matlock Bath. This location features a footpath along the summit, known as Giddy Edge, with some sections having massive drops.
- Another must-see spot is Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave, a natural monument with numerous interlinked tunnels and caverns. Many rocks are carved with symbols, pictures, steps, thrones, and altars, some dating back to a 17th-century vicar.
- Visitors also love Hermit's Cave and Crucifixion Carving, a natural monument and historical site. This cave dates back to the 14th century and features a 1.2 meter high carved crucifixion on its wall.
- Cromford is known for historical lead mines, natural rock formations, and unique carved caves. The area provides a variety of underground experiences, from historical insights to more rustic explorations.
- The caves around Cromford are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 photos and over 360 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
High Tor and Giddy Edge
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
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Rowtor Rocks
Highlight • Structure
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Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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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Hermit's Cave and Crucifixion Carving
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Pounder Lane Caves
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more informations: peakdistrictcaving.info/home/the-caves/derwent-south/pounder-lane-caves
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Tips from the Community
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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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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I was able to enter the cave (which is man-made) without any problems, but I didn't have a torch or lamp with me and had to turn back after about 10 meters, but the cave leads round the corner and further down. more informations: https://peakdistrictcaving.info/home/the-caves/derwent-south/pounder-lane-caves
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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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High Tor is the last place in England where eagles nested and is a stunning limestone escarpment which is the site of former lead mines.
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Hermit's cave dates back to the 14th century and features a 4 foot (1.2 m) high carved crucifixion on the wall and a niche for a lamp or candle. The crucifixion is carved so that the hermit could see it from his sleeping ledge on the west wall. The cave is secured with an iron railing and so can only be viewed from the exterior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique historical caves can I explore near Cromford?
Cromford and its surroundings offer several caves with rich history. You can visit Hermit's Cave and Crucifixion Carving, which dates back to the 14th century and features a 1.2-meter high carved crucifixion. Another fascinating site is Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave, known for its interlinked tunnels, caverns, and ancient carvings, some attributed to a 17th-century vicar. The Heights of Abraham also features former lead mines, Great Masson Cavern and Rutland Cavern, offering insights into the region's mining heritage.
Are there any adventurous caving experiences available around Cromford?
For those seeking adventure, Carlswalk Cave near Matlock Bath offers an outdoor caving experience involving crawling through muddy and wet underground tunnels. This is suitable for ages 10 and over. Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave also provides a more rustic, self-guided exploration with scrambling opportunities through its interlinked tunnels and carved formations.
What natural features can I expect to see in the caves near Cromford?
The caves around Cromford showcase a variety of natural and man-made features. At Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave, you'll find unique rock formations, interlinked tunnels, and ancient carvings. Carlswalk Cave features water-made tunnels and nascent cave formations. Further afield, caves like Blue John Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern are famous for stunning limestone formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and the rare Blue John stone.
Are there any caves that offer a comprehensive visitor experience with multiple attractions?
Yes, The Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath, just over a mile from Cromford, provides a comprehensive experience. Accessible by cable car, it features two distinct caverns, Great Masson Cavern and Rutland Cavern, which are former lead mines. The site also includes exhibitions and hilltop park access, making it a full day out.
What are some notable caves further afield in the Peak District that are worth visiting?
While not directly in Cromford, several highly regarded show caves are a short drive away in areas like Castleton and Buxton. These include Blue John Cavern (famous for Blue John stone), Speedwell Cavern (unique underground boat trip), Treak Cliff Cavern (active mining for Blue John), Peak Cavern (largest natural cave entrance), and Poole's Cavern (magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations).
Are there family-friendly caves around Cromford?
Yes, Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave is particularly popular with families, offering endless climbing, squeezing through narrow gaps, and discovering carved features. The Heights of Abraham is also a great option for families, combining a cable car ride with two distinct cavern tours and hilltop park access. However, be aware that High Tor and Giddy Edge is not recommended for small children due to unfenced sections with massive drops.
What should I wear when visiting caves in the Derbyshire area?
When visiting caves in Derbyshire, it's advisable to wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as surfaces can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. For more adventurous caving experiences like Carlswalk Cave, be prepared for muddy and wet conditions, so waterproof clothing and old clothes are recommended. Even in show caves, temperatures underground are consistently cool, so a light jacket or extra layer is a good idea.
Are there any easy hiking trails near the caves around Cromford?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails near Cromford that can be combined with a cave visit. For example, you can explore the Cromford Canal towpath or routes around Cromford Wharf. You can find more details and plan your route on the Easy hikes around Cromford guide.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the caves in Cromford?
Beyond caving, Cromford offers excellent opportunities for cycling and hiking. You can explore various routes, including those on the High Peak Trail or Monsal Trail, which are popular for touring bicycles. For road cycling, there are routes around the River Derwent and Carsington Water. More information can be found in the Cycling around Cromford and Road Cycling Routes around Cromford guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the caves around Cromford?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical insight and natural beauty. The unique carvings at Rowtor Rocks and the Druid's Cave and the historical significance of Hermit's Cave and Crucifixion Carving are highly appreciated. The impressive views from High Tor and Giddy Edge over Matlock Bath are also a major draw, despite some challenging sections. The komoot community has shared over 160 photos and given more than 360 upvotes for these locations.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden' caves near Cromford?
While many caves in the Peak District can be popular, sites like Pounder Lane Caves offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience for those looking to explore without the crowds. These are man-made and provide an opportunity for deeper exploration if equipped with a torch or lamp.
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