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Clearwell Caves

Clearwell, United Kingdom•4.6(2.4k)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore a vast natural cave system beneath the Forest of Dean, mined for thousands of years by legendary Freeminers, with guided tours and deep-level caving adventures.

Clearwell Caves offers families a unique underground adventure into a spectacular natural cave system hidden beneath the Forest of Dean. The venue features show caverns showcasing the magnificent geological formations created by thousands of years of mining heritage, along with the fascinating story of the Freeminers who have worked these mines since ancient times. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the colorful caverns, with the option of more demanding Deep Level caving excursions for those seeking a greater adventure. The site is suitable for families with children aged 0 and upwards, though visitors should be prepared for steep and uneven pathways and a cool underground temperature of 10 degrees year-round. The venue provides handrails and guidance for safe exploration. Above ground, The Lamproom Café serves cakes, snacks, teas, and coffees, offering a pleasant spot to relax amongst the Forest of Dean trees. The venue welcomes school trips and group outings with tailored experiences. Clearwell Caves has also featured as a filming location for numerous television productions including Dr Who, His Dark Materials, and Willow, adding to its cultural significance.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Book in advance

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

The Lamproom Café

A café serving cakes, snacks, tea and coffee located above ground at the site entrance.

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Google Reviews

4.6(2.4k reviews)
M
Marta

Marta

2 weeks ago

One of the best cave experiences for me, I just loved the local history, people's stories, secrets, environment, the whole unique valley, also geology and chemistry of this place. Caves are very spread and the walk can take nearly two hours, you can also stroll more freely than in other similar places. Also stunning light display on life on earth before it all fossilized. Gift shop has some amazing examples of genuine fossils, sourced locally and beyond this area. Amazing learning place.

D
David Kenton

David Kenton

5 months ago

Visited here with the kids recently, was amazing we only did the self-guided tour, you can do more deep cavr diving. It was so beautiful and is quite long, it's based on old mining with the history of the conditions at that time. Definitely worth a visit and I would go again. Kids really enjoyed it, loads of parking and lovely little cafe.

D
David Morgan

David Morgan

5 months ago

We spent a few hours here breaking up our journey home. Lunch in the cafe, good tasty coffee and Hot drink options. Not the biggest menu for food, but all the food was fresh and well presented in good time. Treated ourselves to some cakes, which all went down well! The caves themselves were impressive, our 2 children loved them. Self guided so you could go at your own pace, and the distance was about right for little legs

C
Chris Price

Chris Price

6 months ago

Well there are no words this really was an absolutely truly magnificent experience that got me and my family in the mood for Christmas. It really is sold as what it is meeting with Santa 100ft uThe vast cave system was wonderfully presented with Christmas trees decorated and a woodland forest display to observe along the way which spectacular. Different scenes tell an amazing story. There is also an opportunity to meet Santa and collect a present of your picking. There is also the unique underground cafe where you can select some beautifully presented and tasty treats. At £19.50 an adult this was about right as the experience was brilliant and you can easily spend 1-2 hours in the cave. Will definitely be doing this again next year.

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N Williams

N Williams

6 months ago

Fantastic visit with family just before Christmas. The Festive Forest and Santa experience was excellent. So much effort had obviously gone into decorating the caves, and it looked magical! Would highly recommend.

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Clearwell Caves

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Clearwell Caves

Is Clearwell Caves free to visit?

Clearwell Caves is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Clearwell Caves suitable for?

Clearwell Caves is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Clearwell Caves dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Clearwell Caves.

Is there parking at Clearwell Caves?

Yes, Clearwell Caves has on-site parking.

Is there food at Clearwell Caves?

Yes — The Lamproom Café is on site at Clearwell Caves. A café serving cakes, snacks, tea and coffee located above ground at the site entrance.

Is Clearwell Caves pushchair-friendly?

Clearwell Caves isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Clearwell Caves?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Clearwell Caves.

How do I get to Clearwell Caves by public transport?

Clearwell Caves is well-served by public transport.
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