Deep beneath the hills and the valleys there's a jaw-dropping network of caves waiting for you to discover.
If you're looking for something a little bit different to do this summer, then look no further than Stump Cross Caverns.
Nestled in the quaint North Yorkshire village of Pateley Bridge is an attraction like no other, a natural wonder that has been hidden from human eyes for hundreds of years.
That's right, we're talking about a vast network of caves all frozen in time and with plenty of stories to tell.
At Stump Cross Caverns you'll discover a trove of prehistoric marvels, from twisting and turning caverns to untouched rock formations and mysterious nooks and crannies.
Image: Stump Cross Caverns
This is the perfect family-friendly activity that will leave you both educated and amazed.
And what's cooler than hopping in a time machine and travelling back 300 million years? We're not even sure Doctor Who can pull that off.
So, what can you expect from a visit to the caverns?
Once entering, the doors will be shut behind you and you'll instantly be transported to a whole new magical world of discovery.
Your adventure will take approximately 50 minutes, and you'll be given all the information needed to self-guide yourself through the caves to spot all the amazing attractions as you go.
Image: Stump Cross Caverns
First up you'll encounter 'The Butcher's Shop', after ducking under a rocky nook you'll be greeted by a jaw-dropping collection of colourful stalactites that look as if they've been frozen in time.
As you make your way through the twisting tunnels you'll spot 'The Twins', two gargantuan pillars of rock that stretch from floor to ceiling, as well as 'The Wolverine Cave', an awe-inspiring cavern where an ancient wolverine scull was found in 1922.
From shimmering walls of limestone to mounds of boulders, this entire experience is a feast for the eyes as you duck underneath hanging stalactites.
And don't worry, all safety gear is of course provided including hard hats and torches to make sure you don't miss out on any of the action.
Other special attractions include 'The Cathedral', 'The Chamber of Pillars' and 'The Curtain'.
Image: Stump Cross Caverns
But of course we're not going to reveal all of Stump Cross Cavern's secrets, you'll simply have to discover them for yourselves.
As well as these incredible rock formations, along the way you'll find free kids activities to spark excitement and curiosity.
From the fossil quiz to the fairy door search, there's never a dull moment as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
And if you thought this experience couldn't get even more magical, then think again. As after 3pm the lights inside the caves are turned off for the ultimate magical UV experience.
But the fun doesn't stop there, once you're done exploring why not search for treasures in their gift shop or stop for a light bite and refreshment in their Time Cafe.
So whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family, or you just love to learn about the incredible prehistoric wonders of the Yorkshire Dales - Stump Cross Caverns is ready for you to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
Day tickets start at just £15 per adult and £10.50 per child, with children under 4 going in for free.
To book your tickets and discover the incredible wonders of Stump Cross Caverns, take a look at their website.
It's been a very busy start to 2026 so far this year in Leeds, and we're definitely not complaining.
It's safe to say our city is thriving, we've welcomed everything from shops and Italian cafes to tequila bars in just two months.
In case you've missed any of them, allow us to give you the lowdown of what's new in the city.
So, without further ado...
Salon Madre
Wellington Street, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Leeds welcomed its newest late-night destination last Friday, and it’s going down as smoothly as its tequila. Salon Madre is a Mexican-inspired bar with a dedicated margarita menu, fabulous food, and an atmosphere that’ll make you want to get up dancing almost immediately. And if you fancy unleashing your competitive side, then there’s plenty of pool tables ready and waiting to be played.
A slice of Puglia has landed over in Pudsey with this fabulous Italian cafe. Nodding to his hometown of Puglia, Fabio has created the Italian experience right here in Leeds, inviting people to swing by for Italian coffee, homemade pizza slices, as well as gelato by the cone (or tub) full.
Topshop
John Lewis in Victoria Gate, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
One for the girlies… because Topshop is officially BACK in Leeds. The iconic high-street favourite has returned, taking over a dedicated space inside John Lewis inside Victoria Gate and yes, we’re already planning the outfit rotations. After Topshop and Topman disappeared from the high street back in 2021, it’s safe to say we’ve all felt the gap in our wardrobes. And of course… Joni jeans, we’ve missed you dearly.
Pollini's Pizza
Lands Lane, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
These guys are known for dishing out huge New York-style pizza slices for less than £4 in Leeds Kirkgate Market since 2022. And now with a second site in Leeds, the big boy slices are making their way across the city, from classic margaritas to meat feasts.
And you best believe we were the first people down to grab it, because we can’t resist a slice from Pollini's.
Pop Mart
Briggate, Leeds city centre
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Pop Mart officially opened on Briggate in January, and Leeds turned out in full force with queues stretching all the way down Thornton’s Arcade. With endless blind boxes to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a Labubu girlie or obsessed with the Crybaby series, you can now get your favourites right here in Leeds.
Inside Kerala Canteen – the world’s first Kerala tapas restaurant in Leeds city centre
Clementine Hall
This modern restaurant in the heart of Leeds is redefining how we enjoy Indian cuisine.
If you haven't already dined at Kerala Canteen, then you are sincerely missing out.
Offering South Indian dining like you've never seen before, Kerala Canteen is the world's first Kerala tapas restaurant where guests can enjoy multiple dishes in one sitting.
And it's not just us who thinks it's class, the restaurant has earned recognition as one of the Top 100 Indian Restaurants in the UK, ranked among the Top 3 Indian restaurants in Leeds & Yorkshire, and awarded Best Restaurant by North Magazine — cementing its reputation as one of the region’s most exciting culinary destinations.
Image: Supplied
So, how does it work? Kerala Canteen isn't your traditional curry house, but the concept means you get to try more of the menu in one go.
Guests are encouraged to start with small plates and move onto curry bowls before sharing a biryani per person and ending with a delicious dessert.
The kitchen is led by renowned chef Bobby Geetha, known for appearances on MasterChef: The Professionals and Great British Menu.
Image: Supplied
Working alongside him is Abdulkhader Allingal Siddique, whose Michelin-starred kitchen background and deep-rooted Kerala heritage promise authenticity.
Together, they make the perfect dream team in the kitchen.
There's a huge selection of vegan and vegetarian options on the menu too so no one in your party has to miss out, with dishes like the chilli and tamarind cauliflower and gunpowder hasselback potatoes being standouts on the menu.
Visit on a Saturday and get involved in their iconic Bollywood Bottomless Brunch where for just £36 per person you can enjoy one bowl and one side alongside 90 minutes of free flowing drinks.
Image: Supplied
You can choose from prosecco, draught beer, cocktails, mocktails - trust us, the list is endless. And you can enjoy it all whilst bopping along to the best Bollywood beats. Find out more about the brunch here.
Visiting on a Sunday? You have to try their iconic T-Bone Sunday Roast experience, featuring a slow-braised T-bone steak finished in rich beef & bone marrow curry, paired with Yorkshire pudding and gunpowder potatoes. You'll never look at your mum's Sunday roast the same again.
Image: Supplied
Kerala Canteen also offers a private event space for your next big celebration that seats up to 100 guests with custom tapas menu and corporate dining packages available.
Located right next to Leeds Playhouse, it's the perfect spot for those visiting the city centre.
To book your table, take a look at Kerala Canteen's website - thank us later.
Clementine Hall -
9th July 2024 
