Top 5 Caves around Westbury
Best caves around Westbury are primarily found in the wider Mendip Hills area of Somerset, a short distance from Westbury in Wiltshire, England. This region is characterized by its limestone geology, which has led to the formation of numerous cave systems. The area offers a range of caving experiences, from publicly accessible show caves to more challenging wild caving opportunities. These natural features contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor exploration.
Best caves around Westbury
- The most popular caves is…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Ebbor Gorge
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Goatchurch Cavern
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Charterhouse SSSI
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Wookey Hole Caves
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Ok, the photos do not do justice to this stunning chamber! It was only "opened" to the show cave in 2015! (The last time I visited was in 1990!!) The caves are still explored very regularly by cave divers, and the decision was made to connect chamber 9 to chamber 20 via a tunnel in 2015. What is visible in the images is the result of melt-water from the end of the last ice age. It has sculpted the rocks into valleys, ridges and crevasses. It is, as far as we know, the largest example of this in the whole of the UK.
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It's like a miniature Ebbor Gorge meets tellytubby land. Well worth a walk.
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This popular cavern is set into limestone rock and is particularly beginner friendly. You can find some hand railings inside to help you, dating back from the early 20th century when it was being (unsuccessfully) turned into a show cave like the other Mendip caves of Wookey and Cheddar. Goatchurch is a popular cave for beginners and school trips thanks to its general ease and its two entrances. Access is free, however, caving can be dangerous and you shouldn't attempt it without a capable guide if you're new to caving. This cave is considered relatively straightforward but still has technical areas, tight squeezes and shouldn't be undertaken lightly.
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Ebbor Gorge is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserve(NNR). Dramatic limestone gorge with interesting caves of important past climate research. Its ancient woodland combes are rich in wildlife and of the Mendip Hills AONB's special qualities
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Ebbor Gorge is a magnificent limestone gorge within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Designated as a national nature reserve, the mixed woodland and deep gorge is home to much flora and fauna, including 250 species of mosses, liverworts and lichens. The caves within the gorge were inhabited by neolithic people and flint tools have been found. The path through the gorge is steep, rocky, wet and muddy. If you have decent footwear and average fitness, you’ll be fine. If you are planning to complete the round walk, I’d recommend going up the gorge (it’s so much fun you don’t notice the effort) and down the meadows (as the views are amazing and with you for the whole descent).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular caves to visit near Westbury?
The most popular caves and related natural features near Westbury, primarily in the Mendip Hills, include Ebbor Gorge, Goatchurch Cavern, and Wookey Hole Caves. Additionally, Cheddar Gorge & Caves are a highly popular destination known for their stunning formations.
Are there family-friendly caves around Westbury?
Yes, Wookey Hole Caves is a major tourist attraction offering a host of activities alongside cave tours, making it very family-friendly. Goatchurch Cavern is also considered beginner-friendly and is often used for school trips, though caving should always be undertaken with a capable guide.
What kind of historical sites can be found near the caves?
The area around Westbury is rich in history. Charterhouse SSSI is known for its historical Roman lead and silver mines. Wookey Hole Caves have been utilized by humans for around 45,000 years, and Cheddar Gorge & Caves have yielded significant archaeological finds like 'Cheddar Man'. The Swan Mine/Kingsdown Quarry offers a glimpse into historical underground industrial activity.
What natural features can I expect to see in these caves and gorges?
You can expect to see spectacular limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, especially in Wookey Hole Caves and Cheddar Gorge & Caves. Ebbor Gorge offers a dramatic natural landscape with steep, rocky, and narrow paths through a primeval forest.
What is the difficulty level for exploring caves and gorges near Westbury?
Difficulty varies. Goatchurch Cavern is considered beginner-friendly, though it still has technical areas. Ebbor Gorge starts off tame but becomes steeper, rockier, muddier, and narrower, requiring average fitness and decent footwear. Show caves like Wookey Hole and Cheddar are generally accessible for most visitors.
Are there hiking trails near the caves around Westbury?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes around Westbury, including loops around Ebbor Gorge. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Westbury guide or the general hiking guide for Westbury.
What do visitors enjoy most about the caves and gorges in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and varied experiences. For example, Ebbor Gorge is loved for its beautiful, varied circular route and primeval forest feel. Wookey Hole Caves are admired for their impressive scale and the unique rock formations sculpted by meltwater.
Is it possible to explore wild caves or do caving as a beginner?
Yes, wild caving opportunities exist. Goatchurch Cavern is a popular choice for beginners and school trips due to its relative ease and two entrances. However, caving can be dangerous, and it is strongly advised not to attempt it without a capable guide if you are new to the activity.
What is the Westbury Cave (Westbury Quarry) known for?
Westbury Cave, located within Westbury Quarry in Wiltshire, is primarily known for its immense scientific importance. It yielded a nationally significant collection of fossils, including small mammals and cave bears, dating back approximately 600,000 years. The site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is not generally open to the public.
Are there running trails available near these cave locations?
Yes, there are running trails in the vicinity. You can find options like the Ebbor Gorge & Priddy loop from Deerleap, which is part of the Mendip Hills. More running routes can be found in the Running Trails around Westbury guide.
What should I know about visiting the Swan Mine/Kingsdown Quarry?
The Swan Mine, also known as Kingsdown Quarry, is a former Bath Stone mine that operated until 1932. It offers a fascinating glimpse into historical underground industrial activity, with visible hoof marks, cart tracks, and a preserved crane. While not a natural cave, exploring it requires preparedness and should not be done alone.
Are there any specific permits or access requirements for these caves?
Access to Goatchurch Cavern is free. For commercial show caves like Wookey Hole Caves and Cheddar Gorge & Caves, entry tickets are required. Westbury Cave (Westbury Quarry) is a scientific site and not generally open to the public. For wild caving, it's crucial to understand local access rules and potentially join a caving club or hire a guide.
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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Westbury:
