Gaping Gill: Yorkshire's deepest underground cavern is reopening to the public

Craven Pothole Club will be lowering visitors into Yorkshire’s deepest underground cavern in August.

Gaping Gill - located near Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales National Park - is usually inaccessible to the public.

However, twice a year local potholing clubs operate a temporary winch system, lowering brave explorers into the cavern on a swaying steel chair.

Descending approximately 340 feet, the experience has been described as both “euphoric” and an “adrenaline” rush.

The descent takes less than a minute, entering the main chamber next to Fell Beck.

Once inside the cavern, visitors have unlimited time to explore the main chamber, which is illuminated by floodlights.

Standing at the base of Fell Beck, the UK’s deepest underground waterfall, is an atmospheric experience.

The size of the cavern is equally impressive and is reportedly a similar size to the interior of York Minster.

Beyond the main chamber, tunnels disappear into a larger cave system.

The cavern is only one section of Gaping Gill, which has some of the longest tunnel systems in the UK.

Hard hats are provided, but sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and waterproof layers are essential for navigating the slippery rock below.

Visitors join a queue when ready to be lifted back towards the surface.

First descents begin on August 14 at 9am, and unlike previous years, reservations must be made online.

The descents will take place from August 14 to August 21 priced at £30.

Descents are allocated within an hourly window and Craven Pothole Club advises arriving 30 minutes before assigned slots.

Reaching Gaping Gill is an adventure in itself.

Allow two hours to complete the 5km walk from Clapham Car Park, which takes visitors through woodland and past Ingleborough Cave - a good detour on the return trip.

For more details, visit the Craven Pothole Club website.