Parking:The nearest parking option is Pelter Bridge Car Park (Ambleside LA22 9LW, United Kingdom). However, the car park is often muddy and riddled with potholes, which unfortunately caused damage to my vehicle. Although the parking area is small, spaces tend to free up frequently, so finding a spot shouldn’t be too difficult.
Access: We brought a stroller, which we left unattended about a 5-minute walk from the cave, and it remained untouched. The walk to the cave took us around 20 minutes, with approximately 7 minutes of challenging terrain filled with stones, making it a bit difficult. For navigation, internet access is limited, so follow this route: when you leave the parking area, take a left and head straight up the same route. This will lead you to the cave.
Scenery and Surroundings: The area surrounding the cave is picturesque, featuring beautiful mountain views, a scenic lake, and a few small water streams.
Crowds and Timing:The cave is in a quiet, peaceful area, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for families and kids. It’s not typically crowded, so you can enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace. It’s also a great place for taking pictures.
Amenities: Unfortunately, there are no facilities nearby—no restrooms, cafes, or picnic areas. There also aren't any benches or resting spots along the way, so it’s a good idea to come prepared.
Suitability for Families and Pets:The terrain and cave area are generally safe and suitable for kids and pets, but parental supervision is recommended due to the rocky path patch.
Overall Value: Parking is costly like many other places, but the visit is worth it if you haven’t seen larger or more impressive caves before. It’s best suited for those who are new to cave exploration or looking for a simple, scenic outing.
Tips for Visitors:Internet access is limited, making navigation challenging...
Read moreA stunning walk through Lakeland scenery before you get to the cave is every bit as good as the end attraction itself. So take your time at it and look at what is around you en-route. Not an overly difficult route (I could get there after all!) But with some uneven stone surfaces to traverse you will need to be reasonably fit and mobile to attempt this one. Also consider when planning a visit that there no longer appear to be any toilet facilities at the nearest available car park. Give yourself a good two hours for there and back again with a little exploration time included. If you're not sure you can make it in that time then pay for the extra parking. It's not cheap but the ANPR can make it a whole lot more expensive for you if it catches you out. The cave is a large man made chamber, fascinating to have a look around. On a busy day be aware that you will definitely not have this to yourself. So you will need to be patient and ready to catch them photo opportunities as soon as you see them. Some of the stepping stones will be slippery when wet, and as I found to the cost of my dry feet they can shift under...
Read moreThere are three car parks available, Pelter Bridge, White moss & Rydal water,
Pelter bridge cap park is accessed via the A591, it’s a tricky turn off the main road onto a one lane bridge, the car park is very small with a 19 car capacity with one blue badge space, £7.00 for 4 hours.
White moss has a greater car capacity but some bad reviews, it has an ANPR system which charges £5.00 for the first 2 hours and then £2.20 per hour afterwards, be very aware that your time starts upon entry and if you do not pay for parking after ten minutes after entry you will be fined £60.00.
Rydal water car park uses the ANPR system too and the charges are the same as White moss, although returning late to your vehicle would result in a £100.00 fine.
In my honest opinion Pelter bridge car park is the better option but get there early.
The walk up to the cave is not wheelchair friendly but easily navigated by those without mobility issues. The views of the surrounding area are amazing. Very popular with dog walkers, even though the weather was changeable, it was a very...
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