CHEDDAR GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Wet, Wild and Vertical: Swildon's Hole to Sump 1 — One of the UK’s Finest Caving Trips
A full-day wet caving session in Cheddar from Swildon's Hole to Sump 1, led by expert instructors for small groups and featuring waterfalls, decorated passages and a submerged plunge.
Wet, Wild and Vertical: Swildon's Hole to Sump 1 — One of the UK’s Finest Caving Trips.
This full-day wet caving session is geared to the fit and experienced: a guided descent through Swildon's Hole to Sump 1 that negotiates numerous waterfalls and cascades, reaches depths of over 400 feet, and culminates in a short submerged passage where adventurous cavers can hold their breath and take the plunge.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A half-mile subterranean journey with dramatic drops
The route covers roughly half a mile in each direction, descending many waterfalls and cascades to depths in excess of 400 feet, including a section that requires a 6m descent on a flexible caving ladder.
Sump 1: a breath-held plunge
At Sump 1 the passage is submerged for a short distance (about one metre) and adventurous participants can hold their breath and take the plunge before continuing into sculpted stream passages.
Small groups and personalised guidance
Sessions are limited to a maximum of six participants, ensuring personalised guidance from experienced instructors and a high standard of safety and quality.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a sustained, physical subterranean day: a long, gradual descent through spacious, well-decorated passages punctuated by waterfall negotiations and vertical ladder work, followed by the short submerged challenge at Sump 1 and a tiring ascent back to the surface.
THE ROUTE
A half-mile subterranean journey with dramatic drops
The route covers roughly half a mile in each direction, descending many waterfalls and cascades to depths in excess of 400 feet, including a section that requires a 6m descent on a flexible caving ladder.
THE MOMENT
Sump 1: a breath-held plunge
At Sump 1 the passage is submerged for a short distance (about one metre) and adventurous participants can hold their breath and take the plunge before continuing into sculpted stream passages.
THE INSTRUCTION
Small groups and personalised guidance
Sessions are limited to a maximum of six participants, ensuring personalised guidance from experienced instructors and a high standard of safety and quality.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sessions usually run from 10:00 to 16:00; Sump 1 trips typically meet at 10:00 and finish around 15:30–16:00.
Standard caving equipment is provided; additional supplied items include fleece undersuits and neoprene socks—participants should be prepared for wet, cold conditions.
Meet at Priddy, Somerset for the session start and briefing.
Groups are limited to a maximum of six participants per session; larger groups can be accommodated with an additional instructor—see operator booking channels for arrangements.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much does the trip cost?
Price is £75 per person; there is a minimum charge of £225 (price for 3).
What is the minimum age to join?
The minimum age is 14 years.
Do I need previous caving experience?
Yes—some previous caving experience is required, preferably with the operator.
What equipment do you provide?
In addition to standard caving equipment, the operator supplies fleece undersuits and neoprene socks.
Can large groups book this trip?
Sessions are exclusive and limited to six participants; larger numbers can be accommodated but require an additional instructor. For groups of 10 or more use the booking enquiry form.
Are youth groups eligible for discounts?
Yes—youth groups are eligible for a discounted rate; see the operator's youth groups page or booking enquiry options.