“The Caves” is the name of an early 19th century house and gardens situated on the west side of Banwell Hill overlooking Weston-super-Mare and the Bristol Channel beyond.
There are two caves in the grounds which are unique and of national significance. The Bone Cave contains bones of animals that are no longer native to this country and are up to 80,000 years old.
There are various follies in the grounds, the most prominent being the Tower which stands 50ft tall on the highest point of Banwell Hill and commands panoramic views of the Welsh mountains to the north and the Somerset Moors to the south.
The Bone Cave and the Tower are open to the public on certain days during the year and the present owners are keen to restore the follies and gardens to their former glory allowing visitors to enjoy the scenes as they did once before in the 19th century. The tower has been partially restored and safe access to the top can now be provided for visitors.
Members of caving clubs may visit the Bone Cave/Baker Extension and the Stalactite Cave between 1st May and end of September. All visits must be booked in advance by e-mail to: johnatthecaves@btinternet.com
New for 2011 - We have a 44 page A5 booklet for sale "The Story of Banwell Caves". It describes in detail the history of Banwell Caves and contains illustrations and photos of the caves. Copies can be purchased at a cost of £5.00 plus £2.00 p&p from John Haynes, The Caves, Banwell, BS29 6NA.
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