Panoramic view of Royston Cave
Hidden beneath Melbourn Street is a the Royston Cave an example of Royston’s past - The cave was discovered purely by accident in 1742 when a millstone was found just beneath the surface of the ground. The removal of the millstone revealed a vertical shaft into the chalk, which on investigation led into a cave hewn out of the solid chalk. Excavation of large amounts of rubble and refuse revealed the cave to be decorated with religious and secular carvings in relief on the walls.
Some of the carvings were easily recognised as the Crucifixion, St Catherine, St Christopher and St Lawrence, while others still defy positive identification, although many are clearly medieval.
Many eminent historians have visited the cave over the years and have propounded numerous theories of the origin of the cave, which range from a Roman Sepulchre, a hermitage, to a secret temple used by the Knights Templar during their regular visits to Royston.
Being unique in Europe, if not the world, the cave remains a mysterious and magical place, attracting visitors from around the world.
The cave is owned by the Town Council and opened for public visits by the Royston and District History Society.
Opening hours:
Sat, Sun and Bank Holidays from Easter to the end of September 2.30pm to 5pm,
Wednesdays during August 2.30pm to 5pm.
Last admission 4.30pm
Unfortunately it is not suitable for disabled access.
For further information visit the Royston Cave website. www.roystoncave.co.uk
