Banwell Caves
Banwell Caves (grid reference ST383588) are a 1.7-hectare geological and biological Site of Special Scientific Interest near the village of Banwell, North Somerset, England notified in 1963.
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
The Druid's Temple and entrance archway to the Bone Cave | |
Location within Somerset | |
| Location | Avon |
|---|---|
| Grid reference | ST383588 |
| Coordinates | 51.3249°N 2.8869°W |
| Interest | Biological/Geological |
| Area | 1.7 ha (4.2 acres) |
| Notification | 1963 |
| Natural England website | |
| Banwell Bone Cave | |
|---|---|
| Location | Banwell |
| Depth | 25m |
| Length | 92m |
| Geology | Limestone |
| Cave survey | Mendip Cave Registry & Archive: (1) and (2) |
| Banwell Stalactite Cave | |
|---|---|
| Location | Banwell |
| Depth | 62m |
| Length | 271m |
| Geology | Limestone |
| Cave survey | Mendip Cave Registry & Archive: (1) and (2) |
The site comprises two caves, called 'Banwell Bone Cave' and 'Banwell Stalactite Cave', which lie within the grounds of a large house, at the western end of Banwell Hill. The caves contain barite deposits, which are found in greater abundance and variety here than at any other site in the Mendip Hills, and are used as a hibernation site by greater horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum).
The site also has several grottos and follies, including the Pebble summerhouse, Druid's Temple, an osteoicon (or bone repository) and Banwell Tower which was completed in 1840.