Long Kin West

The entrance to Long Kin West is easy to miss if you're not paying attention - a modest opening in the limestone hillside near Carnforth that barely hints at what lies beyond. Step through and you're immediately in another world. This is a proper cave system, with narrow passages, tight squeezes, and chambers that open up to reveal pale rock formations catching whatever light you manage to bring with you. You'll need a torch, sensible footwear, and a willingness to crouch. It's not a tourist cave with handrails and electric lighting.

This works best for adults and older teenagers with a bit of adventure in them. Young children will likely struggle with the confined spaces, and anyone uncomfortable with tight passages should give it a miss. The cave itself is free to explore, though you're relying on your own safety judgment - there's no warden on site. Allow a good hour if you're going in properly rather than just peering at the entrance.

If you're camped at Orcaber Farm or staying at Primrose Glamping Pods, both within four miles, Long Kin West makes a decent wet-weather alternative to hiking or a cracking short excursion for a morning. It's the kind of place that rewards curiosity over comfort. The surrounding landscape is proper limestone country - dramatic and worth exploring beyond just the cave itself. Go when the weather's dry; mud and confined spaces don't mix well.