While my photos of Wookey Hole may do it a disservice, the tour is well worth booking to learn more about the fascinating history and stories and to see inside the caves.
My Photos of Wookey Hole
History of Wookey Hole
Wookey Hole is a legendary cave system and visitor attraction in Somerset, nestled in the Mendip Hills near Wells. The caves were formed over millions of years by the River Axe carving through limestone and dolomitic conglomerate. Archaeological finds show human and Neanderthal occupation dating back 45,000 years, with evidence of Stone Age, Roman, and medieval use.
The site’s name derives from the Celtic word ogof (cave) and Anglo-Saxon hole. A paper mill operated here from 1610, powered by the river, and became one of the largest in Europe. In 1927, the caves opened to the public as a show cave, and the site evolved into a full-scale attraction. Ownership passed from Madame Tussauds to circus legend Gerry Cottle, who added theatrical flair and family-friendly features.
10 Interesting Facts About Wookey Hole
- The caves maintain a constant temperature of 11°C, ideal for maturing Cheddar cheese.
- Wookey Hole was the site of Britain’s first cave dive in 1935, reaching Chamber 7.
- The Witch of Wookey Hole is a stalagmite said to be a petrified sorceress.
- The cave system includes 25 chambers and over 4,000 metres of explored passages.
- The River Axe flows through the caves and emerges dramatically from the rock.
- The caves were used by Neanderthals, cave hyenas, and Roman settlers.
- The paper mill still produces handmade paper and generates hydroelectric power.
- Wookey Hole has featured in Doctor Who and other film productions.
- The site includes a cheese tunnel, where Wookey Hole Cheddar is aged.
- The Wookey Hole Circus School performs daring acrobatics during holidays.
Things to See and Do at Wookey Hole
- Explore the Show Caves
Walk through eight illuminated chambers with dramatic rock formations, underground rivers, and the Witch’s cavern. - Visit the Wookey Hole Museum
Discover prehistoric tools, Roman coins, and diving equipment from early cave expeditions. - Watch the Wookey Hole Circus
Enjoy live performances by young acrobats and illusionists in the on-site theatre. - Play Adventure Golf
Tackle a pirate-themed 9-hole course with animatronic dinosaurs and King Kong nearby. - Experience the 4D Cinema
Feel the action with moving seats, wind effects, and immersive sound — perfect for families. - Stroll Through Dinosaur Valley
Encounter life-sized dinosaurs and mythical creatures in a lush outdoor setting. - Try the Mirror Maze and Penny Arcade
Navigate vintage amusements and optical illusions in the historic mill building. - Visit the Paper Mill and Cheese Tunnel
Learn about traditional paper-making and see cave-aged Cheddar in its natural habitat. - Join a Wild Wookey Adventure
For thrill-seekers: abseil, climb, and crawl through off-limits cave sections with expert guides. - Relax at the Soft Play and Café
Let kids burn off energy while adults enjoy coffee, snacks, or a full meal.
Practical Information for Visiting Wookey Hole
- Location: The Mill, High Street, Wookey Hole, Wells, Somerset BA5 1BB
- Opening Times:
- Peak season: Daily, 9:30 am – 5:30 pm (last entry 4:00 pm)
- Off-peak: Weekends only, 10:00 am – 4:30 pm (last entry 3:00 pm)
- Entry:
- Adults: £25.00
- Children (3–15): £20.00
- Seniors (60+): £22.00
- Under 3s: Free
- Concessions available for disabled visitors and carers
- Booking: Wookey Hole – Official Site
- Accessibility:
- Caves not wheelchair accessible; virtual tour available
- Guide dogs permitted; water bowls provided
- Transport:
- Car: Free parking on-site
- Bus: Routes from Wells and surrounding areas
- Food & Drink:
- On-site restaurant and ice cream parlour
- Picnic areas available
- Toilets: Accessible and baby-changing facilities
- Nearby: Wells Cathedral, Cheddar Gorge, Ebbor Gorge, Glastonbury Tor
- Events: Circus shows, seasonal festivals, magic performances, and themed trails
Next, see my photos of Chislehurst Caves in Kent!
