Exploring the Depths (and Delights!) of Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves: A Visit South Devon Team Adventure

As part of our ongoing mission to showcase the very best that our region has to offer, the Visit South Devon team recently paid a visit to one of South Devon’s most iconic attractions: Kents Cavern in Torquay. Known for its incredible geology, fascinating prehistoric history, and breathtaking natural setting, Kents Cavern has long been a must-visit destination, and our latest trip reminded us exactly why. 

A Journey Through Prehistoric Britain 

Our day began with a guided tour of the famous caves, expertly led by one of Kents Cavern’s fantastic team members. As we made our way into the depths of this ancient cave system, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale and beauty of the underground world. With dramatic stalactites and stalagmites at every turn, it’s no surprise that this site is internationally recognised for its archaeological importance. 

The guide brought the space to life with engaging stories about the people and animals that once lived here: from Neanderthals and early modern humans to woolly mammoths and cave lions. We stood in the very place where Britain's oldest human fossil was discovered, thought to be over 40,000 years old, which added a real sense of wonder to the experience. It’s hard to describe the magic of being in such a place, where you can literally walk in the footsteps of our earliest ancestors. 

Woodland Trails and Ice Age Encounters 

After emerging into the daylight, we took a leisurely walk around the Woodland Trail, which surrounds the site and offers a peaceful contrast to the enclosed caves below. Along the way, we enjoyed spotting life-sized replicas of Ice Age creatures and learning more about the flora and fauna that would have been found in the area thousands of years ago. 

It’s a great trail for all ages, with interactive elements and educational tidbits tucked throughout the route. We particularly appreciated how the woodland walk complemented the cave tour, extending the learning experience into the great outdoors while offering some fresh air and leafy views.  

A Taste of the Caves 

Of course, no Visit South Devon trip would be complete without sampling the local food, and the team at Kents Cavern certainly didn’t disappoint. We tucked into their much-loved Cave Cheese Ploughman’s at the Firestone Kitchen Café, and it was absolutely delicious. 

The highlight was the Kents Cavern Cave-Aged Cheddar - an exclusive clothbound cheese matured on site, which we had spied on our tour! Down in the caves, wheels of clothbound cheddar are stored in a specially designed cabinet, allowing visitors to catch a glimpse of the ageing process on their guided tours. Over time, the cheddar absorbs the natural ambience of the cave, adding a layer of depth to its already rich taste. The result is a tangy, rich cheddar unlike any we’ve tasted before. Served alongside crusty bread, coleslaw, salad, fruit and chutney, it was a true celebration of local flavours and the perfect way to refuel after our adventure. 

Bringing a Slice of Devon Home 

Before leaving, we made sure to stop by the gift shop and pick up a wedge of that incredible cave-aged cheddar to take home. The shop offers a lovely range of local products, and it was great to see so many Devon-made items on offer - from preserves to handcrafted gifts. 

Events with a Difference 

Beyond its daily tours and café delights, Kents Cavern also hosts an exciting programme of unique events that truly make the most of this extraordinary setting. Visitors can take part in yoga sessions deep inside the caves, experience atmospheric cheese and wine tasting evenings, or even watch a film in their pop-up underground cinema, a magical and immersive twist on your average movie night! These events are an unforgettable way to experience the cavern in a whole new light and are well worth keeping an eye on throughout the year. 

Why Kents Cavern Should Be on Your South Devon Bucket List 

Our visit to Kents Cavern was a brilliant reminder of how lucky we are to have such a rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes here in South Devon. Whether you're a history lover, a curious family, a foodie, or simply in search of a unique day out, Kents Cavern offers something truly special. 

It’s more than just a cave, it's a gateway to the past, a walk in the woods, a taste of Devon, and a stage for extraordinary events. We left feeling inspired, informed, and well-fed, and we can't recommend it highly enough. 

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