|
|
Print-friendly version
Bagshawe Cavern
Bagshawe Cavern at Bradwell was discovered by accident in 1806 by four local lead miners whilst excavating Mulespinner Mine, and was named after Sir William and Lady Bagshawe of Wormhill Hall who owned the land and came to tour this natural wonderland shortly after its discovery. Also known by some as the Crystallized Cavern, Bagshawe Cavern was operated for many years as a Show Cave similar to the more popular and commercial caverns at Castleton. Now however it is used mainly for educational caving trips and by potholers.
The cavern is approached through a building and a flight of more than a hundred steps leading down into a natural cave system and series of grottos where there are remains of lead and barites to be seen as well as stalactites and crystal formations. Also to be found are ‘dog’s tooth’ stalagmites which curve up like tusks. It is said that Lady Bagshawe gave names to the series of natural caverns including the Grotto of Paradise, the Grotto of Calypso, The Dungeon, the Chamber of Worms, The Constellation, the Kitchen of Fairies and the Hall of State.
Bagshaw Cavern is now a designated site of SSSI status, owned by Mr Revell of Bradwell and is open to the public by appointment only (01433 620540)
|
|
