Accessibility Information

At Poole’s Cavern, we are committed to ensuring that as many visitors as possible can enjoy this unique Peak District attraction. From the cavern tour to the visitor centre and café, we’ve designed our facilities and tours to be inclusive and accommodating.

• Wheelchair access in the cave: Wheelchair users can explore the main cavern chamber, which is 100 metres/300ft long, with no steps. Please note that this is approximately 1/3 of the guided tour.
• Steps and pathways in the cave: The remaining path includes 28 steps (14 up, 14 down) leading to the final chamber, which is 300 metres/1000ft from the entrance. Staff are trained to provide assistance – please to notify us in advance if you have any additional requirements.
• Pushchairs: Pushchairs aren’t suitable for the cavern’s steps and narrow paths. We recommend a child carrier. Pushchairs can be left at the entrance at the owner’s risk.

For visitors with additional sensory or mobility needs, we run SEN Guided Tours on the first Saturday of every month at 9:30am. These tours are designed to be more accessible and sensitive to individual needs.

What to expect on SEN Tours:

• Maximum lighting: No “blackout” or UV effects used during the tour
• Interactive features: Opportunities to handle fossils, replica tools, and calcite formations
• Small groups: Limited to 12 participants for a calm, comfortable experience
• Quiet hour: From 9:30am–10:30am, the Café and Visitor Centre will maintain a hushed atmosphere with no background music
• Carer support: Each standard entry includes one free carer ticket.
• Service dogs are welcome, but this tour is otherwise not dog-friendly

Facilities:

• Blue Badge parking: Dedicated accessible bays near the entrance
• Level access: Step-free entry to the Visitor Centre, Café, and Shop
• Accessible toilets: Fully equipped facilities are available
• Hearing loops: Hearing loops are installed at our café and shop till points