Cavers
One group of customers for which Dan-yr-Ogof makes special provision is cavers. The section of the Showcaves which is open to the public is only a small fraction of the cave system which extends for 17 kilometres under the mountains of the Brecon Beacons.
In fact, the Dan-yr-Ogof system is among the longest in the UK, with other cave systems in South Wales being even longer.
Rank |
Cave Name |
Length (km) |
Vertical Range (m) |
Region |
More Info |
1 |
Ogof Draenen |
70 |
151 |
South Wales |
|
2 |
Lancaster - Easegill - Pippikin |
60 |
211 |
Northern Dales |
|
3 |
Ogof Ffynnon Ddu |
50 |
308 |
South Wales |
|
4 |
Agen Allwedd |
32.5 |
160 |
South Wales |
|
5 |
Ogof Daren Cilau System |
28 |
232 |
South Wales |
|
6 |
Kingsdale Master Cave |
27 |
165 |
Northern Dales |
|
7 |
Clearwell Caves |
24 |
107 |
Forest Of Dean |
|
8 |
Ireby Fell Cavern - Notts Pot - Large Pot - Rift Pot |
23.4 |
183 |
Northern Dales |
|
9 |
Peak Cavern - Speedwell Cavern |
17.59 |
248 |
Peak District |
|
10 |
Gaping Gill System |
16.9 |
197.5 |
Northern Dales |
|
11 |
Dan-yr-Ogof |
16 |
150 |
South Wales |
Caving is a popular leisure activity for a surprisingly large number of people who enjoy the challenge of working their way through underground systems and seeing the spectacular natural landforms within large caves.
An explanation of caving activity is set out below.
The challenges of the activity depend on the cave being visited, but often include the negotiation of pitches, squeezes, and water (though actual cave diving is a separate activity undertaken by very few cavers). Climbing or crawling is often necessary, and ropes are used extensively for safe negotiation of particularly steep or slippery passages.
Caving is often undertaken for the enjoyment of the outdoor activity or for physical exercise, as well as original exploration, similar to mountaineering or diving. Undiscovered cave systems comprise some of the last unexplored regions on Earth and much effort is put into trying to locate and enter them. In well-explored regions, the most accessible caves have already been explored.
In the last century caving has developed into a sophisticated, athletic pastime. In recent decades caving has changed considerably due to the availability of modern protective wear and equipment. It has also recently come to be known as an "extreme sport", although modern caving is far safer than it was in the past.
Activity 1
Develop a presentation which explains the attraction and enjoyment of caving. Use images obtained from the link below to illustrate your presentation. Research other websites to find additional information.
Beyond the areas open to the public, the cave system operates very differently. However, strict Health and Safety regulations are still in place to protect the caver and the environment of the cave system.
Activity 2
Use the website of the Dan-yr-Ogof Cave Advisory Committee: www.dyo.org.uk to answer the questions below:
- For what does SWCC stand?
- What are the main responsibilities of ‘wardens’?
- How many ‘key holders’ are there and why are ‘key holders’ important?
- What happens if a wedding is in progress in Cathedral Cave?
- What is the maximum and minimum number of people in a caving group?
- What type of insurance is required by all cavers?
- What documents must be completed before and after a trip?
- What is the role of the Showcaves staff?
- What form of lighting should be used in the caves?
- How does a person become a ‘warden’?