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Hazards and Warnings

No hazards have been reported for Scoska Cave

Noticed a hazard in this cave? Click here to report it here.

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Access

Also known as Gildersbank Cave. 

The cave is approached mostly via public footpath from Arncliffe (or Litton), and is located only 200m off the footpath, following up Guildersbank Sike (see our route description for more detailed information).

The access requirements for Scoska Cave changed in November 2025. Until then, access to cavers had not required prior permission.

The following statement has been provided by the new owners:

“The current owners recognise the importance of Scoska cave to cavers, other visitors and as a site of enormous environmental importance. There is increased pressure on the site and for the moment they are operating a permission system which will monitor the numbers of cavers and help exclude the small minority who cause damage. Applications for permission should be made to Anita Walker at sundial@globalnet.co.uk giving name and contact details and proof of insurance."

Important conservation note… 

• Scoska Cave has been rated as one of the richest in Europe for mosses and liverworts, not to mention ferns and also moths. We would like to urge visiting cavers to please keep to the left wall of the entrance passage as you enter the cave and depart from daylight, to preserve the plants and mosses along the right side (and of course please remember to do the opposite and keep right on exiting). Conservation tape referenced in previous CNCC news articles, intended to help focus footfall to the correct side of the passage, has been removed by the landowner who has advised us that they prefer the habitat to remain in its natural state.

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Rigging Topos, Descriptions & Documents

Report a topo or description error

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Fixed Aids

Report a defective anchor

More information about CNCC resin anchors

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Location

SD91517242

54.14755, -2.13145

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Please note that locations are correct to the best of our knowledge however are often taken from old books so they may not be absolutely accurate and are shown simply as a guide.

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Entrance Photos