Clapham: Cave, Nature Trails and Local History

Clapham combines a cave tour and nature trails with a village setting shaped by a stream, bridges and historic buildings. If you’re looking for hotels in Clapham, you can plan your stay around these interests: caves and trails, church and market history, or the Great North Trail.

Cave and nature trails

The tour through Ingleborough Cave takes visitors 0.3 miles (0.5 km) underground; in total, visitors walk 0.6 miles (1 km). The visit is self-guided. Guided tours may be available for larger groups by prior arrangement. The passages have no steps, but you’ll need to bend down in two short sections.

The Clapham Nature Trail focuses on path conditions and places to rest: the well-maintained path of compacted stone is generally two metres wide, and benches are located along the entire route. The path was created by the Ingleborough Estate in memory of Reginald Farrer, a botanist and seed collector. The information highlights different aspects: for the cave, walking distance and sections where you need to bend down; for the Clapham Nature Trail, the surface, width and benches.

The Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail is open 24 hours a day, every day; on certain days listed as closure days, it is closed temporarily. Check the operator’s list before your trip.

Church and local history

The Church of St James is a Grade II listed building. Its tower dates from the 15th century, while the rest of the church was built in 1814 and altered around 1900. The Farrar family of Ingleborough Hall had the church rebuilt. It welcomes visitors during the week, at Sunday services and on special occasions. As access may vary during services or special occasions, check in advance whether you can visit at a particular time.

The Clapham Churchyard Trail booklet guides visitors around the old churchyard and describes interesting graves and memorials. The restored market cross is the only remaining sign of a market granted in 1201.

A historic settlement pattern along a watercourse is part of the distinctive character of the Clapham Conservation Area. Clapham developed on both sides of its tree-lined stream. Within the Conservation Area, three attractive bridges link the two sides; two of them carry vehicle traffic.

Cycling route and practical information

The historic, 800-mile Cycling UK Great North Trail can be joined in Clapham heading either north or south. If you’re planning to ride the route, check the latest route information before setting off.

Clapham Car Park is just off Church Avenue. Public toilets are beside the car park entrance on the right. The Old Sawmill Café is at the entrance to the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail. If you’re relying on these facilities during your visit, check in advance that they’re currently available.

Discover more destinations: Huby, Egton, Cononley, Norton, Thixendale, Goathland, Cray, Aysgarth

For the broader travel overview: North Yorkshire.