The cave was first explored by the Farrers (the local landowners) in 1837, following a flood which destroyed calcite dams and exposed particularly attractive formations some 350 million years old. Since then, the general public has been able to visit the show cave, whilst more ambitious cavers can go on into the 17 km Gaping Gill system.

Clapham Beck Head Cave, which I passed last year, is just visible at the lower right.