Forget Wonderland; this rabbit hole in Shropshire leads to an astonishing ‘700-year-old’ cave network believed to be linked to the Knights Templar. The unassuming hole reveals a hidden network of caves located less than a meter beneath a farmer’s field.
The Mystique of Caynton Caves
Legend has it that the Caynton Caves, near the town of Shifnal, date back to the 1300s. These caves are thought to have been used by the Knights Templar, an order of Christian missionaries who fought in the Crusades. The Knights Templar, renowned for their bravery and mysterious rituals, are believed to have sought refuge and conducted secret meetings within these caves. However, Historic England contests this romanticized view.
According to their research, the caves were most likely constructed in the late 18th or early 19th century, suggesting a much more recent origin than the legends claim. This discrepancy between legend and historical evidence adds an intriguing layer of mystery to the Caynton Caves, leaving their true origins and purpose shrouded in uncertainty.
Historic England’s Perspective’
The organization responsible for preserving England’s historic environment, Historic England, offers a different perspective on the Caynton Caves. They assert that the site, also referred to as a grotto, appears to have been used for black magic rites in recent times. This modern use of the caves for occult practices adds a dark and mysterious dimension to their history.
While the romantic legend ties the caves to the noble Knights Templar, Historic England’s findings suggest a more sinister recent past. The juxtaposition of these two narratives—one of medieval chivalry and one of modern occultism—creates a fascinating and complex historical tapestry for the Caynton Caves.
Discovery by Photographer Michael Scott
Photographer Michael Scott from Birmingham embarked on a quest to find this historical wonder after viewing a video of it online. The 33-year-old recounted his journey: “I traipsed over a field to find it, but if you didn’t know it was there you would just walk right past it.” His determination to uncover the hidden caves led him through the unremarkable landscape of a farmer’s field. Scott’s discovery underscores the hidden nature of the caves, which lie just below the surface, out of sight and out of mind for those unaware of their presence. His account highlights the caves’ accessibility yet also their concealment, blending seamlessly into the everyday environment.
Exploring the Underground Temple
Scott described the caves as being in remarkable condition considering their age. He stated, “It’s probably less than a meter underground, so it’s more into the field than under it.” Upon entering the caves, Scott was struck by the network of walkways, which he described as “completely untouched” and filled with beautifully carved arches.
These features create an atmosphere reminiscent of an underground temple, evoking images of ancient rituals and secret gatherings. The well-preserved state of the caves, combined with their intricate carvings, suggests that they were designed with care and intended for significant use, whether in the medieval period or more recently.
Navigating the Caves
The caves are quite cramped, with the tunnel leading to the network being only accessible by crouching. Scott mentioned, “I had to crouch down, and once I was in, it was completely silent. There were a few spiders in there, but that was it. It was raining, so the slope down was quite sludgy, but inside the cave was bone dry.” This firsthand account of navigating the caves highlights their confined and hidden nature.
The silence and isolation within the caves create an eerie atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the noise and activity of the outside world. The physical effort required to enter the caves also adds to their mystique, as only the determined and curious would venture inside.
Vandalism and Reopening
The caves were reportedly closed to the public in 2012 due to vandalism but have since been reopened. This reopening allows visitors to explore the mysterious and historical site, despite the cave’s contentious origins. The closure and subsequent reopening of the caves reflect their vulnerability to human activity and the ongoing interest in their history.
While vandalism threatened to obscure their past, efforts to protect and reopen the caves ensure that their stories, both legendary and historical, remain accessible to the public. This balance between preservation and exploration is crucial for sites like the Caynton Caves, which continue to captivate and intrigue visitors.
Conclusion
The Caynton Caves offer a fascinating glimpse into a past shrouded in mystery and legend. Whether linked to the Knights Templar or constructed in more recent centuries, the caves continue to intrigue and captivate those who venture through the unassuming rabbit hole in Shropshire. The story of these caves reminds us that history often holds secrets waiting to be uncovered, just beneath the surface. As we explore and interpret these hidden sites, we gain a deeper understanding of the layers of history that shape our present and future.
