Yordas Cave
Historical Environment Record No: MYD36637
Parish: Thornton in Lonsdale
OS Grid Reference: SD707791
Dale: Ribblesdale
Link to Archaeology Data Service:
http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/catalogue/collections/blurbs/420.cfm
Description
During the 19th century, a visit to Yordas Cave was a must for the curious tourist. Early guide books extolled the natural wonders of the limestone cave including a rock formation described by Harry Speight as follows: “…the dead, old genius of the cave – grim Yordas in his coat of mail, with mighty frozen arm and clenched fist, raised in seeming defiance of anyone who dared to dispute his sovereignty of these priceless, gem-studded halls”. The huge main hall rose to a height of nearly 25 metres and was likened to a cathedral. The Chapter House was a smaller cave leading off the main hall. It was decorated with numerous delicate stalactites and at one end a “musical cascade” falling 9 metres and then sinking into the earth, never to be seen again. The caves are no longer publicly accessible.
Source:
Speight, Harry (1892) The Craven and North West Yorkshire Highlands. London: Elliot Stock
Location
From Thornton in Lonsdale, take road signed to 'Dent' beside church. Cave lies on left hand side road after 3 1/2 miles, obscured by trees. No public access. View from field gate.
Public Transport Details
Nearest town/village: Ingleton. Call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 to plan your journey. After the welcome message key in 885 for North Yorkshire information.
Accessibility
Viewable from roadside.