Where are you based?
In the Mendip Hills of Somerset, near Cheddar
Gorge. Our activities run in various venues within 6
miles of Cheddar.
Do you operate in other areas?
Yes. We often run sessions in Devon using Pridhamsleigh
Cave. We also travel to Wales where we use the very popular
beginners caves Ogof Clogwyn and Porth yr Ogof.
Are the activities dangerous?
The activities and the venues used have an extremely good
safety record. Minor bumps bruises, scrapes and scratches
are to be expected but anything more serious is very, very
rare. In over 20 years of operation not one of of our
several thousand clients has yet broken a bone. Hazards do
exist on the crag and in the cave, and we do expect our clients to
observe the safety rules that have contributed to our excellent
record. .
How many can participate?
From 1 - 32 persons. Our capacity for caving is 32 persons
at one time. We can (and have) provided for a group of over
60, with one half of the group caving while the other
climbs.
Who can participate?
Schools, scouts, families, individuals, friends, sports
clubs, groups, corporate teams etc. The caves we use
allow a choice of routes and obstacles that can be varied
according to the abilities of the group. (The sessions are not
ideal for anyone who is severely claustrophobic, very overweight
and physically unfit, or suffers from a serious medical
condition).
What do I need to bring on your trip?
For climbing and abseiling clothing suitable for for
the weather conditions. Training shoes or walking boots are
suitable. For caving wear comfortable, loose
fitting clothes, that you do not mind getting slightly dirty.
Bring at least two warm layers for your upper body. An old pair of
gardening cloves will save your nails from damage. Cotton and
denim are not recommended as they do not retain warmth when wet.
Ideal clothing would be tracksuit trousers, thermal vest and
fleece or woollen sweater. Please remember to bring a towel and a
complete change of clothes if you are visiting Swildon's Hole.
Suitable footwear in caves is very important
as floors can be slippery and some climbing is involved. We
recommend Wellington Boots with a snug fit and a good tread.
(Walking boots, work boots or army boots can be used but they do
not grip well on smooth surfaces). No trainers please. We
can provide Wellingtons but we need to know what sizes are
required.
What equipment is supplied?
We provide all essential specialist caving equipment. This
includes:- a modern comfortable caving helmet, a bright
reliable lamp (made by Petzl), a cavers belt and a water
resistant caving over suit. For some caves we provide Knee
pads. We can provide Wellingtons but we need to know what sizes
are required..
Will we get wet?
Climbing and abseiling you will only get wet if
it is raining and you have not brought appropriate clothing!
Dry Caving can still result in dampness (usually the bit
you sit on) and you might like to bring some spare
clothing. If you are visiting Swildon's Hole
you will get soaked from head to foot, so don't forget a complete
change of clothing!
Can we join another group?
No, we do not generally mix groups together. The
ideal session for a small family group, may not suit a group of
very confident and energetic young men. We like to give our
customers an experience which is just right for their abilities.
Will the weather affect the activity?
It may. Caving in Goatchurch Cavern will
not be affected but very occasionally Swildon's Hole
becomes too wet, especially for younger children. If this is the
case we will use an alternative cave. Abseiling can
be done in any weather but climbing cannot. If we
judge the conditions unsuitable for climbing we will switch
to abseiling or we may offer caving as an
alternative.
How small are the cave passages?
That depends on you. If you are confident and you want
to go squeezing, you can. If you are not so sure about it
there is usually another more spacious alternative.
Are the activities very strenuous?
Climbing and abseiling are not. Caving
is a very physical activity but easily within the capability of
anyone with average fitness (or even average unfitness)
There are plenty of rest-stops, and the instructors are very well
practiced in providing a push or a pull when it is most
needed.
Will we be in safe hands?
Absolutely the best. We only use the most seasoned,
experienced instructors - guys we completely trust with your
safety and our reputation. All our instructors are fully
qualified and we are licensed by the Adventure Activities
Licensing Authority (AALA). Please also remember we have
been doing this a long time - we are all very, very
experienced!
Do you offer discounts for larger groups?
All groups from youth organisations (schools, scouts,
colleges, etc) are eligible for a special discounted rate as part
of our commitment to support adventure activities for young
people. For other groups making large or block bookings we
can offer discounts in some circumstances.
Can people with special needs participate?
Very often, yes. Contact us and we will do our best to
facilitate and include.
What is the minimum age?
8 years old for youth group bookings, but we can accommodate
younger children as part of a family group.
What is the maximum age?
Our current record stands at 73 years old!
Can we do a weekend course?
Yes, you certainly can. We can tailor the activities to
suit you. Caving is our speciality and we often run
bespoke caving weekends which includes training in caving
techniques.
Can we do a week of activities?
Yes, you can. We can arrange other activities such as kayaking
and High Ropes to be included.
What other caves could we visit?
For groups who have completed the double day of caving
the natural progression is a longer trip in Swildon's Hole.
This will take you down to the sump, where the brave can dive
through to the caves beyond. There are many other caves in
the Mendip region which we can take you to - each with
their own challenges and fascinating features.
We need accommodation - can you help?
Yes, we can. Take a look at this
link, or contact us for further advice.
Is there somewhere we can have lunch?
Yes, there is the Burrington Inn, only 200 metres from our
usual caving, climbing and abseiling venue.
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