Mother Ludlam's Cave, Cave in Farnham, England.
Mother Ludlam's Cave is a sandstone cavity in Farnham that extends roughly 200 feet into the cliff face of Wey Valley and contains a natural spring. An ironstone arch frames the opening, giving the cave a distinctive entrance.
In 1218, a monk named Symon recognized that the cave's spring could supply water to nearby Waverley Abbey after their original water source had dried up. This discovery made the cave a vital resource for the monastery.
The cave is deeply tied to the legend of Mother Ludlam, a figure from local folklore said to have helped villagers by lending them goods. This story continues to shape how people view and speak about the place today.
The cave entrance is gated for safety and cannot be entered, but it can be viewed from a public footpath that runs through Moor Park. Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the entrance crosses damp ground.
The cave serves as a habitat for several bat species, including Natterer's Bat, Daubenton's Bat, and Brown Long-eared Bat, which is why it is now protected. This role as a refuge for these creatures gives the site added importance beyond its historical value.
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