Six Ice Age Icons arrive at Kents Cavern

Based in South Devon, Kents Cavern is an extensive labyrinth of caves which have been inhabited by humankind and extinct Ice Age animals for almost half a million years. Alongside the caves, café and shop, a day out at Kents Cavern includes the Stone Age Zone, full of artefacts and interactive activities, and the Woodland Trail.

During Lockdown, the Woodland Trail has been rejuvenated as home to six prehistoric animals: a woolly mammoth, a cave bear, a scimitar cat, a wolf, an Irish elk, and a wild horse. All six have a real connection to Kents Cavern: bones and teeth from each have been found in the depths of the caves.

James Hull, General Manager of Kents Cavern:

“We wanted to highlight the importance of caves during the Ice Age for both prehistoric humans and animals. It’s taken five months from idea to installation, but we are so pleased with the outcome: they look amazing. The statues were supplied by The Jolly Roger, a local company based in Bovey Tracey. Being able to support local businesses during the Pandemic is important to us. Visitors can  enjoy the statues as part of the Kents Cavern experience. This investment would not have been possible without the support from the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund and we are grateful to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for their support.”

Alongside the animals, there are three new trail activities around the Woodland Trail.  These include the Prehistoric Animal Hunt, Palaeo Trail and Tribal Code Breakers.

Elliot Ling, Education Officer said:

“Each trail has been specifically designed to cater for different age groups so that everyone can get involved. There is a free activity booklet which is handed out when visitors check-in at the Ticket Desk. And, you can even take home a cuddly version of your favourite Ice Age animal, from the new cuddly toys on sale in the Kents Cavern shop.”

Access to the Woodland Trail is included with your tour tickets, or for only £17.50, why not purchase an Annual Membership which allows you to visit the caves and see these great animals as many times as you like during the year.

Inside, the Kents Cavern visitor centre has  had a makeover during Lockdown, with a brand-new waiting area to help with social distancing. Visit the Stone Age Zone to see if you can master the skills that you would need to survive in the Stone Age. Outside in the gardens there is a new photo board, where you can ‘Stone Age yourself’.

With more things to do than ever, a visit to Kents Cavern is an unforgettable experience for all the family.