Thor's Cave
A magnificent natural limestone cave with a grand archway, offering stunning Peak District views and a touch of ancient history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Thor's Cave
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent natural limestone cave with a grand archway, offering stunning Peak District views and a touch of ancient history.
"Challenging but most definitely worth it, with stunning views and a unique natural wonder."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Slippery surfaces inside and around the cave require good grip hiking boots.
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Beat the crowds by visiting early morning or late evening, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Archway
Entrance
A magnificent natural archway carved into the limestone cliff, offering stunning views.
Cave Interior Exploration
Inside the cave
Venture into the chambers, marvel at rock formations, and imagine its ancient past.
Panoramic Valley Views
From the cave entrance
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Peak District landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key!
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Slippery surfaces inside and around the cave require good grip hiking boots.
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Beat the crowds by visiting early morning or late evening, especially on weekends. +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Look for free parking at Wetton Car Park (Carr Lane, DE6 2AF).
📸 Don't Forget Your Camera
Incredible photo opportunities of the cave and surrounding landscape.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Slippery surfaces inside and around the cave require good grip hiking boots.
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Beat the crowds by visiting early morning or late evening, especially on weekends. +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Look for free parking at Wetton Car Park (Carr Lane, DE6 2AF).
📸 Don't Forget Your Camera
Incredible photo opportunities of the cave and surrounding landscape.
💧 Cave Can Be Wet & Muddy
Be prepared for damp conditions inside the cave.
🗺️ Check Trail Conditions
Use apps like AllTrails for up-to-date trail reports and route maps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Thor's Cave as a beautiful and rewarding destination, praising its stunning natural archway and panoramic views. The hike is considered enjoyable, though the slippery conditions inside and around the cave require caution and proper footwear. While it can get busy, many find the experience well worth the effort for its unique geological features and scenic beauty.
"Drove from Wetton Mill about 5 mins to a small parking area near a wooden and metal handrail bridge. Parking was free and there's no cost to enter or go and visit the cave. 1st part of the walk is around 350 to 450 meters until you get to a small foot bridge on the left hand side crossing the river. Then it's up hill until you reach the entrance to the cave, to start it's a bit rocky under foot the there's steps to climb. As you can see in the pictures there alot of leaves on the steps so be careful as these could become slippy. Also there unfortunately is no hand rails so take your time as you ascend, good foot where is essential although we did see a few in trainers. At a steady pace the uphill part can be done in 15 to 25 minutes we stopped to grab our breath a few times. When your at the top the views are brilliant you can see right down the Manifold valley and the flat walking path you came down. I went into Thors cave for the photo opportunity you need to be careful as its very slippy under foot and the stone floor looks like it's been highly polished. The view is a great reward for the effort of all the climbing through the forest. Definitely going to come back to Thors Cave and we would highly recommend if your able bodied. Unfortunately this wouldn't suit a disabled person.
Bit of advice tuck your pants in to you socks as it is a but wet and muddy on the climb."
Michael Collins
"A fantastic walk out and viewpoint, very busy on the weekends but still enjoyable and an amazing sight to see! Free parking at any of the roads nearby, but we walked from the wetton mill cafe, over the bridge and turn left, walk all the way down the road and then follow the footpath signs. We then followed the signs from Thors cave back through to wetton mill and it took us on a big loop, depending on your fitness etc it could take you more or less time but it took us around 2 hours and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Some of the paths are cobbled, some uneven, some muddy or slippery, definitely not disabled friendly but there was people of all ages, dogs of all shapes and generally a good time."
Grace Pullen
"An absolutely stunning and underrated natural wonder!”
Thor Cave is one of those places that makes you feel tiny in the best way possible. The hike up is short but steep, and the view from the cave is breathtaking — especially if you go during sunset. The rock formations inside look dramatic, and when sunlight hits the opening, it feels almost magical.
It’s peaceful, raw, and beautifully untouched. Wear good shoes, carry some water, and take your time soaking in the view — it’s worth every step! Perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking for a quiet escape."
ayushi kulshreshtha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thor's Cave is located near the village of Wetton in the Peak District National Park. The most common access point is via Wetton Car Park (Carr Lane, DE6 2AF), which offers free parking and toilets. From the car park, it's a relatively short and straightforward walk to the cave. Some visitors also hike from Dovedale or Wetton Mill. +1
Yes, there is free parking available at Wetton Car Park, which is a convenient starting point for the hike to Thor's Cave.
Public transport options to Wetton are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access. Check local bus timetables for potential routes, but be prepared for infrequent services.
A popular route is from Wetton Car Park, which is a less than an hour's hike. You can also extend this into a loop taking in Wetton Hill and Ecton Hill. Some hikers enjoy routes from Wetton Mill for great views of the cave from below. +1
Yes, Thor's Cave is generally considered child-friendly, with a variety of walking routes available. However, adult supervision is crucial due to slippery surfaces and the need for careful navigation inside the cave.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Thor's Cave is a natural attraction and is free to visit. There are no admission fees.
Thor's Cave is an open natural site, so there are no set opening hours. You can visit at any time, but it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee to visit Thor's Cave. It's a natural landmark accessible to everyone.
Official tours are not typically offered for Thor's Cave. It's a self-guided natural attraction. However, local walking groups or guides might offer excursions.
There are no facilities directly at the cave itself. However, Wetton Car Park, a common starting point, has toilets. Nearby cafes can be found in Wetton.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered moderate and enjoyable, with some parts being a bit challenging due to the terrain. It's less than an hour from the car park, and offers beautiful scenery.
While generally safe, caution is advised due to slippery surfaces inside and around the cave, especially after rain. Proper footwear with good grip is essential. +2
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are highly recommended due to slippery and potentially muddy conditions. Layers of clothing are also advisable as the weather can change quickly in the Peak District. +1
Inside Thor's Cave, you'll find natural rock formations and chambers. Archaeological finds suggest it has been used by humans for thousands of years.
Yes, Thor's Cave is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for dog walkers. Ensure your dog is on a lead, especially on the slippery paths.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand archway entrance offers iconic shots, especially with the valley views beyond. The interior rock formations also make for interesting photographs. Golden hour light can enhance the dramatic landscape.
It can be challenging due to low light conditions and slippery surfaces. Using a tripod can help with stability and capturing detail in the darker areas.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. +1
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current Peak District National Park guidelines and local bylaws before flying a drone.
During peak times, it can be difficult to get photos without other visitors in the background. Visiting during off-peak hours or early/late in the day can help.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities at the cave itself, though nearby Wetton Car Park has toilets. The stunning views from the cave entrance provide a great reward after the walk, and the natural wonder of the cave is sure to be a hit. Visiting during off-peak times will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🚶 Solo Hikers & Adventurers
Prioritize safety by informing someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Ensure you have reliable footwear and a fully charged phone. The cave's folklore adds an intriguing element for those who appreciate a touch of mystery on their solo journeys.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for challenging lighting conditions inside the cave; a tripod can be invaluable for capturing detail. Visiting during off-peak hours will significantly improve your chances of getting clear shots without crowds. The natural textures and formations within the cave also provide excellent subjects for close-up photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of Thor's Cave
+1This geological wonder is part of the wider Dovedale area, known for its dramatic limestone landscapes. The cave's accessibility and unique formation have made it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its presence in the Peak District National Park underscores the region's rich natural heritage and its importance for outdoor recreation.
Some local folklore even suggests that a mischievous sprite once inhabited the cave, its screeches filling the cavern. This blend of natural wonder and local legend contributes to the cave's enduring appeal and makes it a fascinating spot to explore.
Navigating the Trails and Cave Conditions
Inside the cave, expect it to be dark, damp, and potentially muddy. There are no handrails or artificial supports, so careful footing is paramount. The cave consists of a main chamber and extends further back, offering opportunities for exploration for those who are well-prepared. Some visitors have noted that the cave can get quite crowded, making it difficult to navigate and enjoy the experience.
For those looking to extend their adventure, the hike can be incorporated into a loop that includes nearby hills like Wetton Hill and Ecton Hill. Using navigation apps like AllTrails can provide up-to-date trail conditions and route maps, helping you plan your visit effectively and safely.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit