description Clearwell Caves Overview
Clearwell Caves is a visitor cave complex in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England. The passages are in limestone associated with the area's long history of iron-ore mining, and the site presents that industrial and geological history through guided underground visits and exhibits. It is intended for visitors interested in caves, mining heritage, and the geology of the Forest of Dean. The caves also contain naturally occurring ochre deposits.
help Clearwell Caves FAQ
Where are the Clearwell Caves located?
Clearwell Caves are in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, England, near the village of Clearwell. They are one of the area's best-known underground attractions.
What was mined at Clearwell Caves?
The passages were worked for iron ore and natural ochre pigments over many centuries, reportedly going back to at least Roman times. Small-scale extraction of ochre for pigments still continues at the site.
What can you see and do on a visit to Clearwell Caves?
Visitors can take underground walks through the old mine workings and see displays on the Forest of Dean's mining history. The site also runs seasonal events such as Christmas displays, plus deeper caving experiences for the adventurous.
What were the Forest of Dean 'Free Miners'?
They were miners with ancient customary rights to dig for coal and iron ore in the Forest of Dean, a tradition dating back to medieval times. Clearwell Caves' iron-ore history is part of that same mining heritage, which the site presents to visitors.
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