Name: Clearwell Caves Ancient Iron Mines
Rating: 5.0

Clearwell Caves Ancient Iron Mines

Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Clearwell, Coleford, UK

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

Clearwell Caves: A Journey Through Time Beneath the Forest of Dean. Beneath the serene and mysterious Forest of Dean lies a hidden world the stunning Clearwell Caves. This remarkable natural cave system, mined for over 4,500 years for ochre pigments and iron ore, offers visitors a chance to explore its winding passages and discover its rich history.

As you descend 100 feet below ground, you’ll be immersed in the breathtaking beauty of ten unique caverns, each with its own atmosphere. Explore winding passages and 10 unique caverns. The caves are self-guided, so no hard hats are needed. Above ground, you’ll find the Lamproom Café, which offers organic coffee, tasty cakes, and light lunches to fuel your adventure.Whether you're a history enthusiast, a geology lover, or simply curious about this spectacular underground realm, Clearwell Caves promises an unforgettable adventure into one of the most fascinating hidden worlds beneath the surface.

Cave entry prices are as follows £12.50 for adults, £10.00 for children aged 4-16, Family tickets are available for £42.00. For those seeking an extra thrill, Deep Level Caving is available for £40.00 for adults and £35.00 for children.

If you are looking for Best Caves and Mines in Coleford , Gloucestershire then you can visit Clearwell Caves Ancient Iron Mines. Clearwell Caves Ancient Iron Mines is one of the places in Coleford Gloucestershire for day out with kids and families. If you are searching for Best Landmarks and Attractions, then you can get all the information here.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Discover the Secret World Beneath the Forest: Explore nine captivating caverns deep below the Forest of Dean. With just a pair of sensible shoes and a sense of adventure, you can journey 100ft underground, uncovering hidden treasures and fascinating history. The self-guided tours typically take 45 minutes to an hour, though many visitors spend longer allow at least 2 hours onsite.
Living History: The caves are a living record of thousands of years of mining. Meet the Forest Freeminers men who are entitled by birthright to mine iron ore and precious ochre, still found here today.
The Silent Cave Dwellers: Home to various bat species like greater horseshoe, natterer, and long-eared bats, the caves provide a perfect sanctuary for these creatures, despite being elusive during your visit.
Children at Work: Discover the history of child miners, or “billy boys,” who as young as seven, carried 60-70 lbs of ore. Want to test your strength? See what 60-70 lbs feels like in the caves.
The Pit Theatre Chamber: This vast cavern has hosted underground theatre, events, and even wedding parties. Check our events page for upcoming performances and unique experiences.
Skeleton Pool: Venture deep underground to find the Skeleton Pool, where ancient creatures' fossils are etched into the rock walls, telling a story that spans 300 million years. Who knows—you might even find a hidden skeleton!
Cave Entry: Beneath the mysterious Forest of Dean lies a hidden world an expansive natural cave system, shaped by thousands of years of mining history. Explore this breathtaking underground landscape, where every corner reveals something spectacular.
Deep Level Caving: Dare to Adventure Deeper? For the adventurous at heart, go beyond the tourist pathways. Duck, dive, and scramble through secret chambers, discovering vast and beautiful caverns that remain untouched by the public. Ready for a deeper adventure?
The Lamproom Cafe: Finish your visit at the Lamproom Cafe, nestled in the Forest, offering sandwiches, cakes, teas, and coffees. A perfect place to relax after your underground adventure.
Events: Want to make your visit even more special? Check out the exciting events happening at Clearwell Caves throughout the year! From underground theatre performances to unique celebrations, there's always something amazing happening below the surface. Discover Upcoming Events Here.
Discover More in the Royal Forest of Dean: After exploring the caves and mining history, immerse yourself in the Royal Forest of Dean with scenic walks, local heritage, and attractions like Hopewell Colliery, Dean Heritage, Symonds Yat, and more.

Facilities

Free parking onsite.
Toilets, Accessible toilets and Baby changing facilities.
Onsite restaurant.
No dogs or other animals allowed into the mine. However they are very welcome in the Lamproom cafe, mine gift shop and around the site.
Before You Visit:
- Footwear: Wear well-fitting, flat-soled shoes with good grip, as the paths are steep, uneven, and can be wet.
- Safety: Please use handrails where provided for added support.
- Temperature: The underground temperature is a cool 10°C year round, so bringing a jumper, even in summer, is recommended.

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Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Cave Entry:
- Child (4-16): £10.00
- Adult: £12.50
- Family (2+2): £42.00
- Family (2+3): £50.00
Deep Level Caving:
- Child: £35.00
- Adult: £40.00
Guided tours available for parties of 15+ people.
Price: Normal entry + £50 for the guided tour.
Duration: Tours last about 1.5 hours.
Booking: Please call in advance to reserve.
Children under 4: Free of charge, no need to book a ticket for them.

Pricing URL: https://clearwellcaves.tygit.com/shop/group-calendar/pk/2c69c0de173c2c507e3e99ad596384f2/groupId/5459

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

Event Hire:
Looking to host a unique event? Clearwell Caves offers a one-of-a-kind setting for special occasions, from private functions to corporate gatherings. For more information or to book the caves for your event, please contact us by email at: [email protected]

Open on bookable dates shown on the calendar.
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Cafe and Shop open during Cave hours.

Address: Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Clearwell, Coleford, UK

Post Code: GL16 8JR

Council: Forest of Dean

County: Gloucestershire

Quick Directions:
- From Coleford Town Centre: Follow the brown tourist signs.
- Distance: 1.5 miles south of Coleford, Gloucestershire.
- Route: Take the B4228 towards St Briavels and Chepstow. After about 1 mile, turn right to Clearwell village (just after ‘Calico’ Lambsquay House, at Lambsquay crossroad).
- The car and coach park is signposted a few hundred yards further.
- SATNAV: GL16 8JR. Follow the brown tourism signs for the final stretch to the car park.
Railway Stations:
- Lydney – 5 miles, bus to Coleford, then alight at Milkwall and walk three-quarters of a mile to the Caves.
- Gloucester – 21 miles, Stagecoach bus No.31, alight at Milkwall, then a three-quarter mile walk to Clearwell Caves.
- For train times, visit The Train Line .
Free Parking onsite.