Winter Tour!

You have probably heard about it in stores, at the pub, in the minibus on your way to Wales or even remember it from Fresher’s Fair: 

This December:

ICCC goes to Yorkshire for a week of caving

The following email will provide you with the relevant information about this wonderful opportunity.

IN BRIEF:

-runs from 16th-23rd December

-you don’t need to attend the whole week (see: transport options)

-but come to Tree training beforehand

-great value for money, gourmet kitchen.

-email ic.caving@gmail.com to sign up

What is Winter Tour?

A full week of caving spent in Yorkshire, the best vertical caving (SRT) destination of the UK. A total of 5-6 possible SRT trips in the best and most varied cave systems of the area such as Easegill, Gaping Ghyll, Notts pot and many more. As well as learning advanced SRT techniques and navigation, and polishing your skills, you may learn to rig (ie: put the ropes in) a cave. 

Where, when, how?

We will be staying at the North Pennine Club (NPC) cottage in Greenclose, North Yorkshire. The accomodation is first class with a huge kitchen, warm showers, a superb drying room and loads of space in the wood-fire heated common room.  

We will drive up on the 16th December, meeting at 12.00pm in stores to load a 9 seater minibus (see transport options), and drive back on the 23rd December to arrive in London in the early evening.

Delicious food, great caves, lively company!

Transport options?

Minibus

We only have 9 seats in the minibus because we require the rest of the space for vast quantities of caving gear and rope (and food).

Train

The closest train station is Clapham, North Yorkshire. It's about 30 minutes walk away, or we can pick you up if you arrive in the evening or early morning. Contact me if you need any help getting the right trains and finding a cheap ticket. Your train expenses are your own.

What kit to bring (get in touch for additional advice)?

As usual, you will need a sleeping bag for the cottage. 

You will pack your caving kit on the Tuesday beforehand.

It is a good idea to bring

-A non-cotton, synthetic thermal top is highly recommended (see Helly Hansen’s for a look at what I’m talking about).

-a balaclava or buff to wear underground or on the walk to the caves. 

-hiking boots in case you want to walk around the area,

-your own caving gloves maybe less important but really nice.

How much will it cost?

The trip fees are worked out on a per person basis, but the minibus costs are split up equally between everyone, regardless how long you spend with us: this is because we need to bring the gear and rope up to Yorkshire. 

In the last few years, a full week of caving cost between £90-110pp, and half a week around £50-60 (excluding train tickets).

Signing up

If you want to sign up, email me on ic.caving@gmail.com. If you need a seat on the minibus it's important you email me soon: if there's a huge demand we might get a 15 seater. 

Otherwise, let me know when you intend to arrive so we can plan accordingly.

Best,

Tanguy

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