Longwood Swallet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Longwood Swallet |
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|---|---|
| Location | Charterhouse, Somerset, UK |
| OS grid | ST48615571 |
| Depth | 175 metres (574 ft) |
| Length | 1.65 kilometres (1.03 mi) |
| Elevation | 213 metres (699 ft) |
| Discovery | 1944 |
| Geology | Limestone |
| Entrances | 1 |
| Hazards | Frequent flooding |
| Access | Restricted |
| Cave survey | Geological Conservation Review/UBSS |
| Registry | Mendip Cave Registry |
The Longwood Swallet is a fascinating cave located near Charterhouse, Somerset, in England. It is found within the Mendip Hills, an area famous for its caves. This cave is part of a special protected area called the Cheddar Complex SSSI. It is also connected underground to another cave known as August Hole.
Longwood Swallet is quite large, stretching for about 1.65 kilometers (just over a mile). It also goes very deep, reaching a depth of 175 meters (about 574 feet) underground.
Discovering Longwood Swallet
This amazing cave was first discovered in September 1944. It was found by a group of boys from Sidcot School. Imagine their surprise when they found the entrance to such a large cave!
Access and Safety in the Cave
The entrance to Longwood Swallet is a special concrete block with a lid. This helps to protect the cave. The cave is kept locked, and only certain people can get inside. Access is managed by the Charterhouse Caving Company.
There is an important warning sign at the cave's entrance. It tells visitors about the risk of flooding inside. Flooding has always been a challenge in this cave. It has become even more common because water is taken from a nearby spring. When the pumps that move this water stop, a large wave of water can rush down the stream and into the cave. This makes it a dangerous place during heavy rain or when the pumps are off.
