Quarried by hand, the smallest blocks weighing 4 tons, the stone was carted on horse drawn wagons, and by barges from Beer beach, to its destination, sometimes involving journeys of several hundreds of miles.

Beer stone was much prized by stone masons as, freshly quarried, it is ideal for fine detail carvings, but hardens on exposure to the air, turning a beautiful creamy white colour. Although seen today by the thousands of people who visit these famous buildings, sadly few stop to wonder where the stone came from, or give even a passing thought to the generations of local families who worked here under appalling conditions by the light of tallow candles.

The entrance leads directly into the Roman section, which now houses a small museum containing pieces of Beer stone carved centuries ago by skilled masons, the tools used by the quarrymen and copies of ancient documents and photographs. From this very chamber the Romans quarried the first blocks of Beer stone to build their villas, leaving typical Roman arches. Even their tool marks are still visible on the walls. On through the Saxon part of the quarry to where the Normans quarried stone for castles, cathedrals, churches and manor houses.

The sheer grandeur of the mighty halls, vaulted roofs and massive supporting pillars of natural stone are awe- inspiring, and have often been likened to a vast underground cathedral. A refuge and place of worship for Catholics during times of persecution, hiding place for contraband during the days when Beer was home to the infamous smuggler Jack Rattenbury, legend and human interest stories abound.

The quarry was worked from Roman times until the beginning of this century without any machinery, and the entire complex is a gigantic memorial to those from the village, some as young as eight years old, who worked here over the centuries, providing the stone that we see to-day in many of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in England.

See for yourself the methods used to quarry and deliver the huge blocks of stone, the working conditions, the hardships endured, and the dangers faced daily by the workforce, and you may never again see a famous building with the same eyes. 2000 years of heritage brought vividly to life, a visit to Beer Quarry caves is an exciting and fascinating experience not to be missed.

The workings are cool ,and even on a warm day a jumper is advisable
Light refreshments and souvenirs. Ample free parking. Level walking below ground. Regrettably, steep approach path to entrance impractical for wheelchairs

2004 Opening Details
Beer Quarry Caves are open to the public daily from the Monday before Easter to the end of October. Admission:- Adults £5.00. Children 5 to 16 years and Senior Citizens £3.70. Family 2 adults + 2 children £15.50

Telephone John Scott. 01297 680282/ 01297 625830
Email john@beerquarrycaves.fsnet.co.uk
Website: www.beerquarrycaves.fsnet.co.uk