Lacy's Caves facts for kids
Lacy's Caves are a group of five man-made caves or rooms carved into a red sandstone cliff. You can find them right next to the River Eden in Cumbria, England. They are located just north of a small village called Little Salkeld, close to a place known as Nunnery.
These unique caves are a cool spot to visit and explore. They offer a glimpse into the past and are part of a beautiful natural area.
Contents
Who Created Lacy's Caves?
The caves get their name from a man named Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Lacy. He lived at Salkeld Hall and had the caves carved out in the 1700s. This was in the 18th century, which means sometime between 1701 and 1800.
Why Were the Caves Made?
No one knows the exact reason why Colonel Lacy decided to have these caves carved. However, we do know that he used them for fun! He would often bring his friends and guests to the caves to entertain them. The area around the caves was also very fancy back then. It was planted with beautiful gardens, making it a lovely place for parties and gatherings.
Exploring the Area Around Lacy's Caves
Lacy's Caves are recognized as a special place. They are listed as a Regionally Important Geological Site by the local government, Eden District Council. This means the rock formations and the caves themselves are important to study and protect.
How to Visit the Caves
There are public paths that lead right to the caves, and they are kept in good condition. As you walk along some parts of the path, you might be following an old tramway route. This old tramway used to connect the Long Meg Mine to a nearby railway line called the Settle–Carlisle line.
The caves are also very close to another famous ancient site called Long Meg and Her Daughters. This makes Lacy's Caves a popular stop on a longer walking route that many people enjoy.
