1 Castleton Spectacular show caves
Castleton’s fame lies in its splendid situation, standing at the head of the beautiful Hope Valley and surrounded by hills that are at the geological junction of the White and Dark Peaks. This planned township dates from the 12th century, when it was laid out on a grid-iron design beneath commanding Peveril Castle (pictured), on a lofty crag between the precipitous gorges of Peak Cavern and Cave Dale.
Today, Castleton depends largely on the tourist trade; the four famous show caves of Peak Cavern, Treak Cliff, Speedwell and Blue John attract thousands of visitors every year. The oldest of the show caves is Peak Cavern, directly beneath Peveril Castle, which is said to have the largest cave entrance in Britain. It recently reverted to its ruder ancient name, the Devil’s Arse. Treak Cliff Cavern, on the now-closed road towards Mam Tor, has the finest formations of stalactites, stalagmites and illuminated pools.
Blue John Cavern, beneath the land-slipped east face of Mam Tor, takes its name from the veins of the unique mineral which is sold as ornaments in the town’s many trinket shops. Speedwell Cavern, reached by boat via an underground canal, is at the foot of Winnats Pass, a spectacular dry limestone gorge that carries the road from Chapel-en-le-Frith to Castleton.
Local walk
• A stepped and paved walk from Mam Nick car park to the summit of Mam Tor, through the ramparts of
