Finally managed to get myself here to check out a place surrounded in folklore and myths; underground lakes; churches lost children and cannibalism are all what surrounds the caverns!
Very small entrance to part of the caverns, with a welded shut gate im sure not many people bother with that particular section where the “Altar” is…
anyway wiki would have you believe this is an 17th century workings however it has only been listed as a colliery since 1854, excavating sandstone; when the mining stopped around 1880 the area became a game reserve until 1939, when they where then used as a storage facility for the AA (Anti aircraft) in Crank.
I wouldnt recommend a visit, mainly due to safety reasons, there are a multiple rock falls and the gated section is tiny and disorientating.
more myths etc here
http://forum.davidicke.com/showthread.php?t=50716
http://www.sthelensstar.co.uk/news/11188608.Crank_myths_inspire_brothers_for_Cavern_dwellers_horror_film/?ref=rss
well done Jo for getting in here looks a grand explore .
Thanks Alan, it was by far one of the smallest entries ive done!
and due to their increasing instability, attempts have been made to close access to the caverns and tunnels themselves. Despite this, the site is still physically accessible from anearby public footpath and is still a draw for generations of curious locals who wish to explore, many having heard the numerous local myths and legends from an early age.
The gate was welded shut on my visit, perhaps to keep the public out due to safety reasons? 🙂
Vicious dwarves” were once rumoured to inhabit a labyrinth of caverns in Crank.