Treak Cliff Cavern - Derby Days Out

Discover Treak Cliff Cavern - A Unique Natural Attraction in Derbyshire & the Peak District

Looking for amazing things to see and do in Derbyshire or a fascinating day out near Derby? Treak Cliff Cavern is one of the Peak District’s most extraordinary underground experiences. Located near Castleton, this show cave and working mine is world-famous for its rare deposits of Blue John stone, extraordinary limestone formations and immersive tours that bring geological history to life.

🕳️ Explore a Stunning Show Cave in the Heart of the Peak District

Treak Cliff Cavern is a spectacular limestone show cave with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites carved over millions of years. Take a self-guided audio tour using your own smartphone to explore the cavern at your own pace, walking through beautiful water-worn chambers and learning about the natural forces that shaped this underground wonder.

The site is one of the few places in the world where Blue John stone occurs - a rare and decorative form of fluorite prized for its striking banded colours - and visitors can see magnificent examples up close in the cave and the on-site museum.

💎 The Blue John Experience - Hands-On Adventure

For a truly unique activity in Derbyshire, take part in the Blue John Experience, an exclusive opportunity to work with expert craftspeople. Learn about the geology of the Peak District, go prospecting for your own piece of Blue John stone in areas usually closed to the public, and polish your find into a keepsake or even a piece of jewellery with guidance from experienced staff.

This hands-on experience adds extra excitement to your visit and creates lasting memories from your trip to the Cavern.

🏛️ Museum, Visitor Centre & Café

Inside the Visitor Centre, entry is free and you’re welcome to:

Discover the Treak Cliff Cavern museum, showcasing Blue John collections, geological samples and the fascinating history of mining and the mine’s custodians.
Browse the gift shop for stunning Blue John jewellery, ornaments and local crafts - perfect souvenirs of your Derbyshire adventure.
Grab refreshments from the Café Hatch, serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, ice creams, and even locally made Blue John gin.

Dogs are also welcome on short leads, so you can bring your four-legged friends to explore this unique attraction with you.

🎉 Seasonal Events & Activities

Treak Cliff Cavern hosts special events throughout the year, including unique seasonal experiences such as Carols by Candlelight in the atmospheric Witch’s Cave each December, creating a magical underground celebration during the festive season.

📍 Plan Your Visit

Location: Buxton Road, Castleton, Hope Valley, Derbyshire S33 8WP - set in the scenic Peak District National Park, easy to reach from Derby and surrounding towns.
Opening Times: Typically open daily with the last entry in the afternoon; free parking is available on site.
Tours & Booking: Timed slots help ensure a relaxed visit - booking in advance online is recommended.
Facilities: Visitor Centre, museum, café, gift shop, picnic areas and dog-friendly access.

📍 Why Visit Treak Cliff Cavern?

Whether you’re exploring natural wonders in Derbyshire, seeking a family-friendly attraction near Derby, or fascinated by geology and rare minerals, Treak Cliff Cavern offers a truly memorable experience. From dramatic underground formations and rare Blue John stone to hands-on adventures and seasonal events, it’s one of the most distinctive things to do in the Peak District - perfect for visitors of all ages.

Plan your visit to Treak Cliff Cavern - delve into a geological masterpiece beneath the Peak District!

ℹ️ For the most up-to-date information, visit their official website.