Plan your day at Stump Cross
There are loads of things to do in our North Yorkshire caves – even when it's raining!
Explore our prehistoric caves
A stunning natural cave system near Harrogate, full of curious stalactites and sparkling crystals.
Don't miss our main attraction – the network of twisting natural tunnels that we call Stump Cross Caverns.
Take our self-guided tour and you'll spend about 45 minutes underground. Here, you can explore hidden nooks, marvel at the unspoilt ancient rock formations and learn about our 300-million-year history.
Gloomy weather? You'll hardly notice! Our caves stay at a cool 7°C (44.5°F), all year round.
Try our incredible UV experience
It's lights out at 3PM…
A visit to Stump Cross is more than a family day out. It's a voyage back in time – a portal to a long-forgotten age before humans or dinosaurs roamed the Earth.
Join us for a day of discovery and explore some of the best-preserved prehistoric caves in the UK. You'll navigate twisting passageways, uncover incredible rock formations and learn of ancient mysteries hidden deep underground.
Whatever your age, whatever the weather – Stump Cross Caverns is always an adventure.
FREE activities for kids
Hunt for fairies or take a fun fossil quiz.
All children's tickets (ages three to 13) come with a free activity worksheet, as well as a special prize.
Kids can choose our fun fossil quiz or take our fairy trail, where they hunt for fairy doors hidden throughout the caves. How many can you spot?
Get the most out of your day
10-11am: Start your day immersing yourself in the mystic allure of our remarkable ancient cave system. Allow yourself to be awestruck by the towering stalagmites and hanging stalactites that have stood the test of time. Don't miss the captivating spectacle of the Iron Curtain, a unique sight that will surely leave you amazed.
11-11:30am: After an hour of exploring the stunning subterranean world, emerge from the depths and take a moment to rejuvenate. Indulge in a well-deserved pause, while sipping on a traditional cup of Yorkshire tea or coffee, letting the rich flavors complement your extraordinary underground journey.
11:30am-12pm: Embrace the thrilling chance to experience gem panning at our specially designed sluice. It's like your own personal gold rush as you sift and shake a tray in flowing water, revealing hidden treasures like amethyst, rose quartz, emeralds, and moonstone. You may even unearth the highly coveted Golden Tooth - a find that guarantees you a bonus prize!
12-1pm: As the clock strikes noon, take a breather and nourish your body with a delightful lunch, perfect for refueling your energy levels for the adventures still to come.
1-2pm: Dive into a hands-on fossil dig inside our immersive cinema. Learn about the fascinating world of caves and the fossil-rich limestone rock that forms them. Your knowledge and appreciation of these natural marvels will surely deepen.
2-2:45pm: Relax and unwind with another comforting cuppa, perhaps coupled with a leisurely stroll around our crystal gift shop. Discover an array of beautiful crystals, a perfect memento of your caving journey.
2:45pm onwards: Round off your visit with a second descent into the caves, but this time under the glow of a UV torch. Witness the underground realm in a whole new light, an unforgettable finale to your day at Stump Cross Caverns.
Events and activities
Looking for things to do in Yorkshire when it's raining? Just wait until you see what we have in store…
Cinema Hire
It's popcorn time!
Nothing beats cosying up with friends and catching a good flick. So why not hire our cinema and turn your film night into a memorable day out?
We have comfy seating for up to 40 people and a wide selection of films to choose from. And you're welcome to bring your own DVDs or Blu-rays to watch on our 4K projector.
An optional at-seat service is available for snacks and other refreshments.
Stump Cross Mining Co.
Pan for real gems you can take home and keep.
Ever fancied being a miner for the day? Head to Stump Cross Mining Co., a genuine wooden gem sluice. Here, you can pan for treasures – just like they did in the great American Gold Rush.
What will you discover? Choose a mystery bag and discover unique gems that are yours to keep.
If you're looking for unique things to do with kids in Yorkshire, you won't want to miss this.
Time Out Pod
A unique chill-out spot with breathtaking views.
Celebrating a special occasion? Need to get some work done? Perhaps you just want to chill out with a few close pals?
Book our Time Out Pod and enjoy a spot of peace and quiet in a spectacular setting. It has all you need for a cosy catch-up, including snug blankets, fluffy cushions and gorgeous hilltop views over the Yorkshire Dales.
Cave and Cream Tea
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.
Sick of the same boring restaurants? Cave and Cream Tea – the most unique dining experience on this side of the Stone Age.
You'll be seated in our exclusive pod, with one of the best views of the Yorkshire Dales.
Expect hot scones, lush cream and – of course – a piping hot pot of freshly brewed tea.
Outdoor fun
Snack, play and relax in our picnic area.
The fun doesn't stop indoors. If the weather's nice, head to our spacious outdoor area overlooking the magnificent Yorkshire Dales.
There's something for all the family here. You can sip a cup of tea on our picnic tables, while the kids conquer our stone maze and rummage in our huge sandpit. (They might even find a fossil or two!)
And keep an eye out for Zitta, our resident guard dragon. You'll find her in the corner, watching over her babies…
Cavewoman
Looking for fun kids' activities in Yorkshire? Say hello to the Stump Cross Cavewoman.
She'll show you how to dig for fossils and party – Stone-Age style!
It's time for Stone-Age fun! Let Cavewoman guide you as you explore the magic and mystery of Stump Cross Caverns.
Pan for real gems
Be a miner for a day and pan for gems at Stump Cross Caverns – it's just like panning for gold!
Our gem sluice is a series of wooden troughs filled with water. Take your bag of mining rough, pour it into a tray and start panning. Discover real gems that you can take home to keep.
Time to get your hands dirty and be a miner for a day. It's a fun, hands-on activity that's suitable for all the family.
Food, drink and souvenirs
Fancy a cup of tea? Of course you do…
Time Cafe
Have a bite to eat and drink in the view.
Feeling hungry? Stop for a snack in our Time Cafe and enjoy stunning views across the Yorkshire Dales.
We serve a range of food and refreshments, including tea, coffee, sandwiches and cakes. (And let's not forget our famous homemade sausage rolls!)
Gift shop
Hunt for treasures, including fossils, gems and our very own ales!
Whether you're a fossil fanatic or a jewellery lover, you'll find something in our gift shop that you'll want to treasure forever.
Toured our caves? Loved them? Stop by and pick up a souvenir (or even a bottle of our very own Stump Cross ale!).
More things to do in the Yorkshire Dales
Keen to explore further?
The history and beauty of the Yorkshire Dales are waiting for you…
The Yorkshire Dales are bursting with beautiful horizons, historic sights and hidden valleys. Set off on foot and you'll be richly rewarded.
We've picked out some of our favourite walking routes to get you started.
Visit The Coldstones Cut
A colossal sculpture with an intriguing story.
The Coldstones Cut has to be seen to be believed. This unique stone sculpture is Yorkshire's largest (and highest!) public artwork.
Visitors are free to explore the sculpture and climb its viewing platforms. From here, they can gaze at the working limestone quarry below and enjoy panoramic views of the Nidderdale AONB.
Best of all, it's only a 10-minute drive from our caves.
Drop by our local towns and villages
Get a feel for life in the Dales.
The Yorkshire Dales are peppered with picturesque towns and villages, just waiting to be discovered. And we have two of the finest within easy driving distance of our show caves.
Head east on the B6265 and you'll soon find yourself in Pateley Bridge, a charming little town that marks the start and endpoint of the famous Nidderdale Way. In the opposite direction is Grassington, a former mining village with a parade of boutique shops and eateries.
Happy exploring!
Book your tickets
Get ready for a whole day of fun and adventure. Book your tickets to Stump Cross Caverns online.
Stump Cross Caverns
Greenhow Hill
Pateley Bridge
Yorkshire
HG3 5JL
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