Peak Cavern (The Devil's Arse)
Tucked at the end of a dramatic limestone gorge right on Castleton's doorstep, Peak Cavern boasts the largest natural cave entrance in the British Isles — wide enough to have housed a small ropemaking village inside its mouth for centuries. Step inside and the temperature drops, the world goes quiet, and geology becomes theatre.
A Giant Mouth in the Rock
Peak Cavern's entrance is so vast that ropemakers lived and worked within it for generations, their craft continuing well into the 19th century. The blackened ceiling and worn stone floor are the only traces left of that vanished community.
Guided tours last 60–75 minutes and wind through chambers that open and contract in ways that feel almost theatrical, with lighting picking out curtains of flowstone and mirrored underground pools.
What to Expect Underground
The cave is entirely natural in its upper sections, carved by the River Peakshole which still flows through its lower reaches. At certain points the ceiling soars to over 20 metres, making it feel more like a cathedral than a cave.
Despite the dramatic nickname — locals have called it 'The Devil's Arse' since at least the 17th century — the experience is family-friendly and utterly captivating for all ages.
Getting There
Peak Cavern sits at the head of Goosehill, a short flat walk from Castleton's market square following the stream. There is no car park at the cavern itself, so leave the car in the village and enjoy the approach on foot — the gorge walls closing in around you is part of the experience.
Peak Cavern (The Devil's Arse) on video
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