Mother Shipton's Cave

I went several time as a child in the 1970's and to say the place has changed is an understatement. Back then there was no tourist shop, you were lucky to get a leaflet explaining about Mother Shipton. It is very much now geared to kids and tourism. It has it's positives but also it's negative's. Approaching from the car park through the trees it lovely to see the huts and carved animals. The topic was Wizard of Oz. Now I don't know if that's permanent or it changes seasonally etc. The village of Oz is a great place and kids as well as adults will love it. It is situated near the coffee hut. It's a great place for a picnic (best and cheaper to bring your own) and it's near a play area so adults can keep an eye in the kids. Carrying on past you eventually come up to the gates of the Cave and Waterfall area. It's still looks beautiful from there. Sadly, the waterfall which used to have loads of petrified or semi petrified objects hanging from the falls now has a few but most are long strings small teddy bears and ling strings of witches hanging to petrify and be sold in the gift shop for an astronomical price of £70 for a bear and £120 for a witch. Total rip off and it makes the waterfall seem like a money making venture rather than a gorgeous quirky attraction. Next comes the wishing cave. Now back in the 70's you would go in a small dark cave and put your hand into a pitch black hole that had water in it. You would then make a wish while being nervous that something would grab your hand in the pitch blackness. It was scary, exhilarating and let your imagination run riot, kids and adults alike. Now however, the cave is light, the hole with the water you put your hand in is wider and colour changing lights have been put in so you can see what is going on ....that was really disappointing. Next was the Birthday Place Cave of Mother Shipton. That was thankfully almost the same save for a witch like cackle on speakers near the entrance. Then we walked back up the steps to the wooded area and followed the signs to the gift shop. Lots of interesting things in their, tourist souvenirs as expected and the seriously overpriced petrified Teddy bears and witches. The woman we spoke to behind the counter told us she hadn't been working there king but was very helpful and knowledgeable and gave us tips and advice what was also worth a visit nearby. So make your mind up, my visit was bitter sweet.

A beautiful place worth visiting. I had a wonderful time with my family surrounded by nature, and our little pet was delighted. The area is pet-friendly. Despite the changeable weather, including a rain shower, it didn't discourage us from returning. There are covered areas to sit and a great place for a picnic. There's plenty to see and many interesting stories associated with this wonderful place. We really enjoyed our time with the family. I recommend visiting.

​An absolutely fantastic day out! ​The grounds are absolutely lovely, and the story of Mother Shipton is genuinely fascinating. We paid for the on-site parking, which was incredibly convenient and well worth it. As you walk along the beautiful river, there are plenty of nice little seating areas to take a break and enjoy the view. A wonderful highlight was the interactive huts where friendly witches and wizards let the kids cast spells! My family agreed this is one of the best days out we’ve ever had. It is absolutely worth every penny—a truly great experience!

Great afternoon trip. The view across the river is delightful, the walk through the woods was great with themed areas, when we went it was Alice in Wonderland. But it's changing to Wicked for the half term. The petrifying well is so interesting and weird to look at. There are multiple sections with information boards and/ or audio explaining the area/ history/ lore. Well worth the trip.

As a pne off visit, it is worth going once to what it is all about. The walk isn't too long. They incorporated The Wizard of Oz story to the grounds more than just Old Mother Shipton's Cave to see. Great for small children to visit.