Description
Royston Cave is an enigma. No records of its age or purpose exist. Some suggest it was used by the Knights Templar, others as a private chapel or hermitage. It's also claimed to be the site where two ancient Ley lines meet. Discovered by accident in 1742, Royston Cave is man-made, bell-shaped and cut 8 metres into the chalk that lies beneath Royston's ancient crossroad, Ermine Street and Icknield Way. The cave is decorated with low-relief wall carvings. The carvings are mostly Christian in depiction and medieval in style. They include representations of the Crucifixion and notable saints such as St Catherine and St Christopher. Elsewhere are figures of a horse and an Earth Goddess, believed to be Pagan fertility symbols. Online booking only
Service options
On-site services
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Planning
Appointment required
Getting tickets in advance recommended
Children
Good for kids
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Reviews
5
A great experience and well worth a visit. very fascinating stories around how the cave was used . Our tour guide was very informative . I was expecting a short talk at the entrance and then just walk down, but our guide was giving information all through the experience and pointing things our and answering questions. Very friendly and relaxed. Can be a little slippery when raining but there are things to hold on to when walking down. A hidden treasure.
5
A wonderful little historical site with incredible connections to the Knights Templar and Christianity. Plan for a 45-60 minute guided tour by a very well respected guide.
5
It was a very interesting place and the guide was extremely helpful and friendly. You could literally spend hours and you wouldn't see everything.
5
We pre-booked tickets but on the day walk-ins were available, always best to check during busier periods. The tour lasts about 40 mins and is very interesting
5
Though it may be small, this cave is extremely fascinating and despite being man-made, there's a lot to unpack courtesy of the excellent guide who explains everything in a through and concise manner. It's amazing that this cave is located within a fairly busy street, which just makes it all the more impressive.
5
Interesting visit to see the carvings in the cave. Who knows who left them there...more questions than answers.