Upton's Caves

Carved directly into the sandstone cliffs above Frodsham, these mysterious cave chambers have puzzled archaeologists for decades. Nobody quite knows who dug them or when, though theories range from medieval hermits to 18th-century smugglers storing contraband away from prying eyes.

Wandering through the interconnected rooms feels properly atmospheric, especially on a grey Cheshire afternoon when mist clings to the escarpment. The main chamber opens into smaller alcoves, some with crude stone shelves still visible along the walls. It's fascinating stuff for anyone with a taste for local mysteries.

Kids will love the adventure of it all, though parents should know the entrance involves a bit of scrambling and the caves aren't lit. Bring a decent torch and wear proper footwear - the sandstone can be slippery when damp. Allow about an hour to explore thoroughly and soak up the views across the Mersey estuary.

The walk up from Frodsham takes twenty minutes through woodland, making this a cracking addition to a break at Lady Heyes Holiday Park or The Ridgeway Country Holiday Park. Both sites sit close enough for an easy morning expedition before heading to Delamere Forest for the afternoon. Worth combining with a pint in Frodsham afterwards - you'll have earned it after the climb back down.