Royston Cave — Attraction in North Hertfordshire

Royston Cave offers a unique opportunity to visit a site unlike any other in the country, and probably the world. When I heard that there was a cave in the small town of Royston I did not expect to find it in the centre of town. Surely tens of thousands of people have walked and driven barely inches above this curious wonder without ever knowing of its existence.

Across the road from Betfred and just down from a rather handy Wetherspoons you will find an alleyway with a sign pointing you towards the cave. Be aware that this volunteer-run attraction is only open during the summer months and only on weekends (plus Wednesdays during August). There are only four tours during the afternoons and so tickets are limited so don't turn up at the start of one expecting to go straight in.

Before the tour commences everyone is given an informative leaflet and after a brief introduction the guide leads you down a step, curving path to the cave. This would be a challenge to those less mobile people and is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

I will not give further information about the cave or its secrets here but the history is fascinating, from ancient ley-lines and Roman roads to seventeenth century royalty. Our guide was excellent, knowledgeable, interesting and informative and answered the many questions he was asked.

The whole experience will last about half an hour and costs five pounds for adults so don't expect to spend the whole day here. There are other things to do in the town though. It is a shame that there is no interpretation centre here and no opportunity to buy souvenirs from the cave itself although there are some available at The Cave Shop next door and at the town's museum.

As the cave is underground there is no parking at the site itself but there is plenty within walking distance. We parked at the local railway station but there are other pay-and-display car parks and a fair amount of on-street parking, just be sure to check the relevant signs for time restrictions. There were possibly a few too many people on the individual tour and space in the cave were at a premium but it was possible to see everything with some shuffling and patience.

This quirky tourist attraction is great for those interested in history, mysteries or just looking for something out of the ordinary or off the beaten track. A visitors centre would improve this attraction but poo is would definitely recommend it in...

Whilst it is a fascinating little piece of history and well worth a look, I was REALLY disappointed to learn that you are NOT allowed to take ANY photos or short video clips of the cave OR the passageway whilst on your tour. This includes for personal use or for use in a YouTube video, as I found out when I was asked to REMOVE my video from my channel. It is stated clearly on their website and at the site, BUT why?! Not even allowed to pay for a filming permit but if you're Sir Tony Robinson and the price is right you can apparently. Really...

I have seen this Royston Cave 20 years ago, and wanted to bring my children this time. Three times we were in Royston the cave was closed, it worked out that you have to book it online and they open it from 1pm. In addition to that, the pricing is crazy, £10 per adult and £4 per child. That would be £32 for our family to see a little room for 5 minutes. In 1790 the occupier dug a 22m access tunnel and charged visitors sixpence, which in 2024 is an equivalent to £2.50. Greed and lazyness combined, prevent many from visiting this...