Mangle Hole

Standing at the entrance to this narrow cave opening, you'll wonder if someone's having a laugh with the name. But Mangle Hole is a proper caving experience, cutting deep into the Mendip Hills limestone just outside Winscombe. The entrance might look innocuous enough, but this isn't one for casual tourists - you'll need headlamps, old clothes, and a willingness to squeeze through some tight spots.

Serious cavers rate this one highly for its challenging passages and underground chambers. The route involves crawling, climbing, and navigating some genuinely tight squeezes that would have claustrophobic types running for the hills. It's definitely not suitable for young children or anyone with mobility issues.

No visitor centre here, no guided tours, no handy car park with facilities. This is raw caving in the Mendips, where you're entirely responsible for your own safety. Experienced cavers with proper equipment only - and even then, it's wise to go with someone who knows the system.

For families staying at nearby sites like Mendip Basecamp or Wild Goose Glamping, this serves as a reminder that the Mendips offer serious outdoor adventures beyond the tourist trails. But stick to Cheddar Gorge's show caves if you want something more accessible.