Cave Dale

Valley in Derbyshire High Peak

England

Cave Dale

Byway onto Eldon Hill The byway bends to the right shortly, but a bridleway continues straight onto Eldon Hill. These routes stem from former mining activity. — Byway onto Eldon Hill Credit: Bill Boaden

Cave Dale is a picturesque valley located in the county of Derbyshire, England. Nestled within the Peak District National Park, it is a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. The valley is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, enchanting woodlands, and meandering river.

Cave Dale is a relatively narrow gorge that stretches for approximately 1.5 kilometers. The valley is flanked by towering limestone cliffs that rise up to 50 meters in some areas, providing a stunning backdrop to the landscape. These cliffs are a favorite spot for rock climbers, attracting both beginners and experienced climbers alike.

The valley is home to a variety of flora and fauna, with wildflowers carpeting the meadows during the spring and summer months. Several species of birds, including peregrine falcons and kestrels, can be spotted soaring above the cliffs. The river that winds through the valley is a haven for wildlife, with otters, water voles, and kingfishers frequently seen along its banks.

For those seeking a leisurely stroll, a well-maintained footpath runs through Cave Dale, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the valley at their own pace. The path leads to the nearby village of Castleton, where visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including cozy pubs, charming shops, and historical attractions such as Peveril Castle.

Overall, Cave Dale offers a stunning natural landscape, rich in biodiversity and opportunities for outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and explorers.

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Cave Dale Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.338763/-1.7768501 or Grid Reference SK1482. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Byway onto Eldon Hill

The byway bends to the right shortly, but a bridleway continues straight onto Eldon Hill. These routes stem from former mining activity.

Bill Boaden

Limestone Way towards Castleton

Bill Boaden

Buxton Road (A6187) leaving Castleton for Winnat's Pass

habiloid

Speedwell Cavern

At the bottom of Winnats Pass. The shop - which specialises in the semi-precious gemstone blue john - leads to the cavern entrance where narrow boats take visitors deep into the limestone hillside.

Neil Theasby

Near the head of Winnats Pass

Looking down to what is essentially the remains of a primordial coral reef that was formed 340 million years ago.

Neil Theasby

Sheep grazing at the head of Winnats Pass

Neil Theasby

Yellow scale lichen growing on limestone

Near the head of Winnats Pass, Derbyshire

Neil Theasby

Castleton barns and Mam Tor in snow about 1956

See Link for the current state of these barns.

John Lawson

Church of St Edmund

Kevin Waterhouse

The Stones

A quiet backwater with Mam Tor in the far distance

Kevin Waterhouse

Peakshole Water

Towards Peak Cavern from Goosehill Bridge

Kevin Waterhouse

View into Winnats Pass

From Goosehill, Castleton

Kevin Waterhouse

The drive to Losehill Hall

The hall is now a YHA hostel

Trevor Harris

Admiring the view of the Hope Valley

Taken from just outside the exit from Treak Cliff Cavern.

Trevor Harris

Blue John Cavern

Looking towards the entrance into Blue John.

DS Pugh

In Pindale - view to Hope Cement Works

Operated by The Breedon Group, Hope Cement Works has the capacity to make around 1.5 million tonnes of cement each year. Over two hundred people work at Hope Cement Works in a variety of jobs.

Neil Theasby