One of Yorkshire’s oldest tourist destinations, formed over 500,000 years ago, is appealing for support to keep its doors open after lockdown. 

Stump Cross Caverns, a much-loved visitor attraction and family run business, open to the public since its discovery by lead miners in 1860, has been hit hard by lockdown closures and social distancing restrictions over the past 12 months. Ticket sales alone are down by more than £400,000 as visitor numbers drop from an annual average of 60,000 to just 15,000.  

We were not eligible for a cultural recovery fund grant as we were told we did not fit into the Government guidelines. Despite many of our fellow cave owners securing grants. To help prevent its doors closing for good, Stump Cross are selling their personal possessions to raise funds to keep the doors open.

“We’ve worked tirelessly to offer an outstanding experience to all our customers since we took ownership of Stump Cross Caverns 18 years ago. Visitors have marvelled at the magical splendour the caves have to offer thanks to its beautiful grottos and benefited from the recent refurbishment of our café, 50-seater cinema, and exclusive chill out zone, known as the Time Out Pod. 

“Sadly, all of this is under threat unless we raise vital funds to keep us up and running. Our latest crowdfunder appeals will hopefully mean that we can continue to welcome visitors to the Caverns for years to come.  

“By pledging donations, our supporters will not only have the chance to win some truly amazing prizes including our very own state-of-the-art VW Campervan and five memorable Stump Cross experiences, but they will also be helping us and our local suppliers, continue trading and keep tourism alive in the Yorkshire Dales.” This will secure the jobs of our tram in a rural area.

Due to its natural and cultural importance Stump Cross is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Bones of Ice Age creatures have been discovered in the caverns including reindeer, wolverine and bison and some are now on display in the visitor centre. Its cave system extends well beyond the public access show caves, to an overall length of approximately 6km. Many of the deeper caverns are only accessible to experienced cavers, but there are plans to open further sections in the future. 

Please help us to get heard and get the help we so desperately need to stay open for future generations to come.

We need your help.