CAVE
Europe's largest indoor caving system
The ideal activity for exciting birthday parties or a day of family fun
Grab your friends or family and book an adventure in the XC Caves today. Caving parties are available to book too and always go down well with both adults and children alike. Please note that caving sessions at XC are only available for those aged 8+ however 6 and 7 year olds can join us in the cave when supervised by their parent or legal guardian!
The indoor caving system at XC Hemel Hempstead is one of the largest in Europe! Our cave measures around 160m and stretches through intricate twists and turns. The realistic cave passageway includes three chambers, and a separate cavern runs through the cave leading to the sheer drop start of our high ropes course. All cavers who join us for a session will be equipped with a helmet and head torch and guided around the system by our friendly instructors. Indoor caving is an ideal activity for exciting birthday parties or a day of family fun.
Caving requires skilful manoeuvring of your body and will strengthen your core and upper body, as well as mentally stimulate your brain cells. It’s a challenging activity, but with help from our instructors, you’ll find yourself pushing past your limits and navigating through the dark tunnels with ease! This pastime has been practised for the better part of a century and whether you are negotiating squeezes, sumps, stalactites or stalagmites one thing is for sure – you will be enjoying one of the more mentally demanding hobbies out there.
Did you know?
the man made caves at xc are actually situated on the top floor of the building! So if you're worried about going underground have no fear...
Caving FAQ’s
Do I need to fill in a waiver?
Yes, every participant wishing to use our cave needs a valid waiver form. This can be filled in online prior to your session by clicking here!
Participants under the age of 18 need to have the waiver filled in by their parent or legal court-appointed guardian.
When do I arrive for my session?
We recommend that you arrive around 15 minutes before your session is due to start. This gives you time to check-in at reception so we know you are here. It also gives you time to use the toilet and get changed if need be prior to your session.
How old do I have to be to use the XC caves?
Our caving sessions are suitable for anybody aged 8+. Children aged 6 & 7 can cave when accompanied by their parent or legal guardian on a 1-2-1 basis.
Do I need to bring any equipment?
No, our team will provide you with a helmet and torch for your session.
What should I wear?
- Wear loose comfortable clothing. Something similar to what you would wear to the gym.
- Dress appropriately according to the temperature outside. Although we are an enclosed building, it can be hot in summer and cold in winter.
- Wear layers that can be easily removed if you become hot.
- Dresses and skirts are not permitted.
- Wear clean, closed top trainers that can be securely fastened to your feet.
- Remove all jewellery and if you have long hair, this must be tied back into a low ponytail.
Do you provide lockers?
Lockers are provided at a cost of £0.20 and are large enough for a rucksack. Alternatively, you can leave your belongings in our briefing room. (Personal items are left unattended at your own risk)
Do you have toilets and changing rooms?
Changing rooms, toilets and showers are available for use on-site at no extra cost to your visit.