High Birkwith Caves - Please take note

[Badlad]

Dear all

The owners of High Birkwith Farm have decided not to allow parking on their land anymore.  Access to the caves is still allowed free of charge but you must park elsewhere and walk.  Please, Please park sensibly and lawfully and realise that you now have some distance to walk.

There have been some unfortunate incidents in the last few weeks.  The family's 10 month old dog and a sheep have been killed by careless driving so it is not surprising that they have taken this decision.  They do say that cavers have been the most considerate of visitors and I thank everyone for that.  Please continue to be considerate when visiting the caves on foot.  You do not need to call at the farm for permission.

Unfortunately the parking area is used by many other folk taking part in different activities in the area.  It is not a caving problem and we are lucky to retain unrestricted access to the great caves on High Birkwith land.  Thanks to all those who have helped to maintain this access.

Please everyone - use your contacts to spread this message around the caving communities.

Thank you
Tim Allen
CNCC Access Officer

 

[A_Northerner]

Anyone got any tips on the best place to park?

There are a few significant lay-bys further down the track towards Horton but I'm never sure which are exclusively passing places.

 

[Badlad]

I'm not overly familiar with the area but I don't remember anywhere on the lane which wouldn't block a gateway, passing pace or impede other users.  I suspect that the only real option is to park in Horton somewhere or possibly Selside as some suggested on the other thread.  The walk is just something we'll have to get used to - it'll be good for us anyway.

 

[Cave_Troll]

are they charging for access on foot ?

 

[CNCC]

The former charge was only for parking (now no longer available). There is no charge for access to the caves and not even any need to call at the farm to ask permission.