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.
Choose your adventure! We offer two unique cave experiences every single day.
Book a slot in the morning or early afternoon to see the caves in their natural glory. You'll be guided by discreet lighting, which is ideal if you want to get a close look at every nook and cranny.
At 3PM, our UV experience starts. We switch off the lights and hand out special ultraviolet torches. Shine your torch on our calcite rock formations and they'll seem to glow from within. Magical!
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.
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?
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.
Events and activities
Looking for things to do in Yorkshire when it's raining? Just wait until you see what we have in store…
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.
Book your tickets
