Visiting Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern offers an underground excursion in Torquay, with a choice of independent cave entry and a separate guided tour. The experience takes you away from the waterfront and into a space where rock formations and changing gradients shape the visit. Check the ticket type and available entry times before setting out, and allow time for the journey as well as the visit itself.
The cave is in Wellswood, about a mile from Torquay Harbour. It can work as a separate outing from Paignton or as part of a day exploring Torquay. For a contrasting outdoor plan, look at the beaches around Paignton; for more choices across the bay, see things to do.
Our take: cave visit
An expert-led tour also includes access to the Woodland Trail and Stone Age Zone.
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Cave entry and guided tours
Cave Entry is the independent option. A Guided Tour is a separate ticket type, so choose according to whether you prefer to explore independently or visit with a guide. The featured expert guided experience should be compared with the guided option rather than treated as the lowest priced standard entry. Read the current booking details for the time and ticket you choose.
The operator's published prices, accessed on 1 November 2026, listed adult Cave Entry at £16.50 online and £19.50 on site. The corresponding Guided Tour prices were £27 online and £30 on site. These are different products, and the price of an offer shown here can differ from the operator's standard prices. Check the final price and conditions before paying.
The operator suggests around an hour for Cave Entry. Booking ahead is recommended, and checking the day's opening times helps you organise transport and any other stops. Arrive around 15 minutes before your time slot as advised by the operator.
What to wear underground
The cave is around 14 °C according to the operator. Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are sensible choices even when conditions outside feel mild. Think about the underground part of the visit when choosing footwear, and leave enough time to move at a comfortable pace through the spaces.
The route includes nine shallow steps, steep gradients and narrow sections. Wheelchairs can reach only the first chamber. If someone in your group needs more detail about the route, contact the attraction before booking and discuss the particular assistance or equipment you need.
Ordinary dogs may be brought onto the grounds and into the café, but not into the cave or Woodland Trail. Assistance dogs are permitted under conditions; call ahead to discuss the visit. This distinction matters if you are combining the cave with a walk elsewhere and travelling with a dog.
Getting to Kents Cavern
The attraction is on Ilsham Road in Wellswood, postcode TQ1 2JF, and has its own free car park. If you travel by bus, the St Matthias Church stop is approximately five minutes away on foot. Check the current service and connection for your date, particularly if you are returning to Paignton after another stop in Torquay.
A cave visit and a waterfront walk make different demands on a day: the cave has a booked time and a route with steps, while a walk allows more flexibility. Keep a margin between them rather than relying on a tight connection. If your plans depend on a particular entrance time, reserve that first and arrange the rest of your day around it.
There is also more to explore in the region beyond the cave. Our excursions guide introduces activities around the bay, while the travel guide helps with the wider journey to Paignton. Check the weather for any outdoor part of your itinerary and carry a layer for the underground visit.
Kents Cavern questions
Can I explore independently?
Yes. Cave Entry is the independent option; Guided Tour is a separate ticket type.
Is the cave fully wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchairs can reach the first chamber. The route has steps, steep gradients and narrow sections, so contact the attraction to discuss individual needs.
Can my dog enter the cave?
Ordinary dogs may visit the grounds and café but are excluded from the cave and Woodland Trail. Assistance dogs are permitted under conditions, and a call ahead is recommended.
How long should I allow?
The operator suggests around an hour for Cave Entry. Allow additional time for arrival, travel and any other stops.