We recently took a trip to the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley and one of the absolute highlights of our trip was visiting Clearwell Caves. We visited as a family and it was a truly memorable experience.
I was slightly apprehensive about how my seven-year-old would feel in the caves. She is often overwhelmed by different sensory experiences which can include dark spaces or unknown noises. Thankfully the caves were incredibly peaceful and really not as dark as you would imagine.
Clearwell Caves a family adventure
One of the highlights of our visit was learning about the mining history of Clearwell Caves. The signs around the caves shared fascinating stories of the miners who once toiled in the darkness, extracting iron ore and ochre from the earth.
The magical atmosphere of Clearwell Caves was further enhanced by the stunning lighting. As we wandered deeper into the labyrinth, the caves were bathed in an otherworldly glow. The kids couldn’t contain their excitement as they discovered hidden nooks and crannies. A highlight was the lake area where a projector displayed prehistoric animals on the cave walls.
Clearwell Caves Christmas
For those seeking an extra thrill, there are also underground cavern concerts that take place in the unique acoustic environment of the caves. The thought of listening to live music in such an extraordinary setting has piqued my interest, and I’m sure it would be an unforgettable experience for any music-loving family. They also put on a Christmas experience that I think would be really fun.
After our underground exploration, we emerged into daylight. We took a moment to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding forest, taking in the fresh air and serene atmosphere. I’ll be sharing more about our visit including the beautiful sculpture trail in the Forest of Dean.
Before bidding farewell to Clearwell Caves, we stopped by the gift shop, where we found a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and mementos. The kids delighted in picking out their own piece of the magic to take home, whether it was a sparkling crystal or in my daughter’s choice a small fluffy cat.
Our visit to Clearwell Caves was an experience like no other that we’d had as a family. Exploring the underground wonders together, learning about history, and embracing the sense of adventure created lasting memories for us all.
If you are looking for things to do in the Forest of Dean, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Clearwell Caves. Whether you’re seeking a magical day out with the family or looking to immerse yourself in history and natural beauty, this hidden gem is sure to leave you spellbound. So gather your little explorers, prepare for an underground adventure, and let the enchantment of Clearwell Caves unfold before your eyes.
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