Blue John Cavern
One of the few places in the world that produces Blue John fluorite, with purple, blue and yellow banded veins clearly visible on the cave walls.
Blue John Cavern lies at the foot of Mam Tor and is one of only a few places in the world that produce 'Blue John' fluorite. This semi-precious stone, banded in purple, blue and yellow, has been mined since Roman times for ornamentation. The tour takes about an hour and descends about 245 steps, passing a natural cavern hall, stalactites and fluorite veins, with some areas still being mined on a small scale. Many shops in Castleton sell Blue John crafts. Admission costs about £20, and a reasonable level of fitness is needed. Nearby Treak Cliff Cavern also displays fluorite, with fewer steps, making it better suited to older visitors and children.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:30–17:00
Nearby sights
- Winnats Pass
- Mam Tor
- Speedwell Cavern
- Peak Cavern
- Peveril Castle
- Castleton
- Kinder Scout & Edale
- Derwent Dam