Kents Cavern, Cave system in Torquay, United Kingdom
Kents Cavern is a branching limestone cave system in Torquay, England, with several large chambers filled with stalactite and stalagmite formations. The passages stretch across multiple levels and lead through corridors that display rock and mineral deposits millions of years old.
Archaeologist William Pengelly excavated here between 1865 and 1880, uncovering bones of extinct sabre-toothed cats and cave bears alongside stone tools. These finds showed that humans and animals occupied the system across tens of thousands of years.
The name comes from the Kent family, who owned the land in the 19th century and guided visitors through the system. Today, well-lit paths lead through several chambers where children and adults can see traces of prehistoric animals and early inhabitants.
Tours last around 45 minutes and follow paved paths with steps accessible to most visitors. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the temperature inside remains cool year-round.
A human jawbone fragment discovered in 1927 was dated to between 41,000 and 44,000 years old, making it one of the oldest human remains found in the British Isles. The site also served as a shelter during World War II for residents of Torquay.
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