The caverns were created by slate extraction for roofing during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Underground Lake is naturally filtered through the slate and contains high mineral content.
The Cathedral Cavern can accommodate large audiences for live music performances.
The caverns were historically used as a natural, temperature-controlled environment for storing rum casks.
The site is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the presence of hibernating bats.
Carnglaze Caverns consists of three man-made slate caverns resulting from historic underground mining operations near St Neot. The subterranean environment maintains a constant ambient temperature of approximately 10 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The lowest level of the cavern features the 'Rum Store,' a subterranean lake fed by spring water with a distinctive blue-green hue. The main cavern, known as the Cathedral, is frequently used as a performance venue due to its natural acoustic properties. Access to the caverns involves descending approximately 60 steep steps into the earth. The site is located within the Loveny Valley on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Visitors move through the chambers via self-guided tours following marked paths. The cavern floors are composed of slate and can be uneven or damp.
The shoreline of the underground lake, capturing the reflection of the rock walls in the water.
Bring a sturdy jacket as the temperature inside the caverns is significantly lower than outside.
Wear shoes with excellent grip, as the slate floor can be slippery when wet.
Allow extra time if you have mobility restrictions, as the descent and ascent are steep.
Attempting the descent in flip-flops or open-toed sandals is a significant safety hazard.
Closed on certain weekdays during the winter season; check availability for concert dates which may restrict general access.
Do not touch the cavern walls, refrain from using flash photography near roosting bats, and stay strictly on the marked paths.
