Caves in the quarry
Quarrying in the 19th century broke into and destroyed a considerable amount of cave, about which there are no records, though some remnants can still be seen. The cave entrances that now exist are what remains. Three of these lead into significant caves and there are then three or four very small remnants.
Reeds Cave
This is by far the largest cave in the quarry and is part of the Reeds/Bakers Pit system. It is still is a well-preserved state, is richly decorated, and is a valuable research resource. For that reason the cave is locked and the Trust operates a tightly controlled access system limited to experienced cavers with areas within the cave taped off so as to limit damage.
Joint Mitnor Cave
This cave is a principal reason for the existence of the Centre. It contains a unique deposit of fossil animal remains from between 120,000 and 80,000 years ago, discovered just before WW2 and partially excavated. A decision was made to retain part of the bone deposit so as to create a demonstration site accessible to visitors for the last 60 years.
Rift Cave
This cave is formed at the base of a very visible fault in the limestone. It has been gated since 1970 in order to protect bat colonies and access is restricted to researchers.