Rhino Rift facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rhino Rift |
|
|---|---|
| Location | Charterhouse, Somerset, UK |
| OS grid | ST48475557 |
| Depth | 147 metres (482 ft) |
| Length | 253 metres (830 ft) |
| Discovery | 1971 |
| Geology | Limestone |
| Entrances | 1 |
| Hazards | Loose boulders |
| Access | Restricted |
| Registry | Mendip Cave Registry |
Rhino Rift is a cool cave found near Charterhouse, Somerset, in the Mendip Hills of England. It's located in an area made of a type of rock called Carboniferous Limestone. This cave is part of a very special protected area known as the Cheddar Complex SSSI.
Exploring Rhino Rift Cave
Rhino Rift is quite a large cave. It stretches for about 253 meters (that's like two and a half football fields!). It also goes very deep underground, reaching 147 meters down. That's taller than a 40-story building!
How Rhino Rift Was Found
The cave was first discovered in 1971. A group of cave explorers from the Wessex Cave Club worked hard digging to find the entrance. Before that, another group, the University of Bristol Spelaeological Society, had also dug in the area. They found bones of animals that are now extinct. Because of these ancient animal remains, the cave was given its unique name, Rhino Rift!
Visiting Rhino Rift
Rhino Rift is a locked cave, which means you can't just walk in. Access to the cave is carefully managed by a group called the Charterhouse Caving Company. This helps keep the cave safe and protects its natural features.
