Deep Dale, Protected scientific area in King Sterndale, United Kingdom.
Deep Dale is a steep-sided gorge near Buxton that stretches for several kilometers with sections dropping to significant depths within a surrounding agricultural plateau. The site contains several caves including Thirst House Cave and is fed by seasonal springs.
The site gained prominence in the 1880s after the discovery of a bear skull in Thirst House Cave, prompting excavations by local residents Micah Salt and Robert Milletts. These investigations revealed numerous Roman artifacts from earlier occupation.
The place is deeply tied to local folklore, particularly the Thirst House Cave which bears a name rooted in a mythological cave-dwelling goblin from regional legends. Visitors can sense these historical connections to regional storytelling as they explore the dale.
Access is available via the Wye Dale car park where visitors can explore the valley using the Midshires Way footpath network. The trail system allows exploration of different sections and the caves in the area.
The valley contains a winterbourne stream that flows only during the cold months, fed by the Deepdale Side Resurgence spring. This seasonal water system is an unusual feature that shapes the valley's water dynamics.
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