Foxholes is a series of low bedding caves found underneath the cliff mid-way between Ingleborough Cave and Trow Gill.
Despite being of little interest to sporting cavers, these small caves are archeologically significant, having yielded a number of important finds. They are also hydrologically interesting as Foxholes likely represents a historic resurgence for Ingleborough Cave. In 1993, the Northern Pennine Club dug a connection to Ingleborough Cave (the Clapdale Crawl), which led to the need to install a gate. This crawl has since completely silted up owing to occasional flooding which backs up into the lower of the Foxholes caves in the most extreme conditions.
In April last year, a team of CNCC volunteers undertook a massive project to reopen the entrance of Foxholes following a major collapse of the cliff above (full story here). The cave needed to remain gated to fulfil the requirements of Ingleborough Cave's insurance, but the key was easily available to collect.
Since then, persons unknown have attempted to break in, and have damaged the gate and surrounding walling.
On 16th October, a group of three CNCC volunteers responded to a request from Ingleborough Estate to repair the damage. The gate was straightened up and the wall was taken down and rebuilt with a mortared stonework. A great effort to maintain access, as well as positive relations with one of the our area's largest estates.
The key remains available to collect from Ingleborough Cave - Full access details here.
Thanks to Andrew Hinde, Ged Benn and John Lugger Thorpe for their efforts.
Photo by Andrew Hinde.
