Lacy's Caves

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Looking North towards Lacy's Caves, by the River Eden Lacy's Caves.jpg
Looking North towards Lacy's Caves, by the River Eden

Lacy's Caves are a series of five chambers in the red sandstone cliff of the River Eden, just north of Little Salkeld, Cumbria, England, near Nunnery, Cumbria, at grid reference NY564383 . [1]

They are named after Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Lacy of nearby Salkeld Hall, who commissioned their carving in the 18th century. [2] The reason for their creation is unknown; however, they were used by Lacy for entertaining guests, and the area was originally planted with ornamental gardens. [3]

The site is a listed Regionally Important Geological Site by Eden District Council and public footpaths to the site are well maintained. Some of the path follows the line of a former tramway connecting Long Meg Mine with the nearby Settle–Carlisle line. The site is close to the ancient stone circle Long Meg and Her Daughters, and is on a popular circular walk.

References

  1. Cumberland and Westmorland Antiquarian and Archaeological Society (1976). Transactions of the Cumberland & Westmorland Antiquarian & Archaeological Society. The Society. p. 157. Retrieved 3 May 2012.
  2. Rose, Lesley Anne (15 September 2008). Lake District. Crimson Publishing. p. 264. ISBN   978-1-85458-425-0 . Retrieved 3 May 2012.
  3. "Little Salkeld – Lacys Caves". Visit Cumbria. Retrieved 3 May 2012.

54°44′16″N2°40′43″W / 54.73777°N 2.67868°W / 54.73777; -2.67868