Families are invited to explore the wonders beneath Buxton with the upcoming SEN Guided Tour at Poole’s Cavern on Saturday 14th February at 10am. Designed to be welcoming, relaxed and engaging, these tours offer a thoughtful way for visitors with additional needs to enjoy one of the Peak District’s most fascinating natural attractions.
The SEN Guided Tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, taking visitors around 1,000 feet into the hillside through the cavern’s impressive underground chambers. Led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, the experience has been carefully adapted to be more accessible and sensitive to individual needs, while still capturing the magic of the caves.
Handles Fossils and Replica Tools
Unlike standard tours, SEN Tours combine traditional storytelling with interactive zones, giving visitors the chance to handle fossils, explore replica ancient tools and touch specially selected calcite formations. These hands-on moments help bring the cave’s story to life in an engaging and memorable way.
Group sizes are kept small, with tours limited to 12 participants, creating a calmer and more comfortable environment. Each standard ticket includes one free accompanying carer, and service dogs are welcome (although the tour is otherwise not dog-friendly). To avoid sudden sensory changes, the tour does not include a blackout experience, but the popular UV lighting experience still takes place.
Along the route, there are two benches for rest breaks, and visitors will encounter 28 steps. Wheelchair users can access around one third of the guided tour, and families are encouraged to call ahead to discuss individual requirements.
Throughout the journey, visitors will learn how the cavern was formed over millions of years, while also discovering its place in local folklore and history – blending natural science with cultural heritage.
Tickets cost £20, including one free carer, and the experience includes:
-
Tactile elements
-
Full LED lighting
-
One-third wheelchair access
-
Optional sensory bag hire (additional fee)
Sensory Bag
Families can enhance their visit further by hiring a sensory bag, designed to support comfort and engagement. Each bag includes ear defenders, a mega fidget, tactile shells, a feelings fan, torch, fidget zip bracelet, a Scraggly Poole’s Cavern teddy companion and map of Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park.
While SEN Tours aim to improve accessibility and inclusivity, visitors should be aware that the cave environment is dark, damp and a cool 7°C, which may present some limitations.
How to Book
Families can book their place by visiting the Poole’s Cavern website at buxtoncivicassociation.org.uk/book-tickets and selecting 14th February for the SEN Guided Tour. These special tours run quarterly and places are limited, so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
To discuss specific needs before booking, families are encouraged to contact the Accessibility Champion, Alison Ewart, on 01298 26978 or email [email protected]
Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park, Green Lane, Buxton, SK17 9DH
T: 01298 26978
Did You Enjoy This?
You might like our regular newsletter. We put all the best events, cultural highlights and offers from Buxton and the Peak District in your inbox every month.
This information will only be used to send you this newsletter. It is stored in Mailchimp.
