Scotts Grotto

Scotts Grotto is an unusual and inexpensive place to take the kids to explore if you are in the area, although it does have limited opening times.

The Grotto is a series of 6 interconnected chambers that extend 67ft (20m) into a chalk hillside. All the chambers have been decorated with thousands of pieces of coloured glass, shells, and flints, and it is rumoured to have cost £10,000 to make, and taken 30 years to complete! The Grotto was extensively restored in 1990 and is a Grade I listed site. There is also a Grade II listed summerhouse and gardens to explore on the hill above the Grotto, which in its day would have offered a wonderful view over Ware.

The floor is uneven and the entire underground system is unlit, so it is a good idea to bring a torch and wear flat shoes when you visit. You are also asked to stay on the paths that lead to the Grotto and the summerhouse, and not to climb the banks. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the Grotto, there is no access for wheelchair users.