Did you know?
- Some say the cave was named after a Nordic giant while others say the name is derived from the Norse 'Jord ass' which means 'earth stream'.
- Yordas Cave is a former Victorian show cave.
Kingsdale was carved out by a glacier leaving steep sides of limestone. There are many caves in the valley often starting high of the fellsides and leading to a master cave at valley level. Yordas Cave can be found at the top end of the valley hidden in a small plantation just of the west side of the Thornton to Dent road below the summit of Gragareth.
The entrance consists of a stone archway with steps leading directly to the main chamber. This main chamber has a stream running through it and is approximately 50 metres wide, 15 metres deep and 15 metres high. There are three small passages leaving this hall to the right and to the left. There is also a smaller chamber called the Chapter House that contains a superb waterfall.
Getting permission to explore
Yordas Cave is on private land, Braida Garth Farm. Permission is not required but please visit the cave respectfully and responsibly. See the link here to the Council of Northern Caving Clubs website.
Exploring the cave is relatively straight-forward with good footwear and a reliable light, or you can hire equipment in Ingleton at Inglesports. If this whets your appetite and you want to try a more adventurous cave then why not hire a guide - see our Call in the Experts page for details.
