All good caves should have a visitors' book
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d.m.y

Jaqqi

(Scot)

Fabulous site of the world beneath our feet! Glad I came upon it.... well done!! I came on it via the Skye Pasture Caves site.

07.10.11

Peter Cox

(MA USA)

Excellent! I need to do it again. I couldn't find the way out the Cwm Dwr entrance. Did the through trip in '64 from Cwm Dwr. Things were a little more primitive in there in those days but am glad to see most of the formations still look good. Last time I was in OFD was soon after the extension to OFD II.
Would be nice to do it again but probably getting a little old for that
and anyway it's a long way from Massachusetts.
Was a member of Chelsea SS for a number of years and caved in the Forest of Dean, Mendips, Derbyshire, Yorkshire and Wales. Still believe the most horrendous trips were Darren Cilau, again before the later extensions.

19.09.11

Pete

(Wales)

I’ve been tempted to go caving on many occasions, what equipment do I need to try it out? Do you do beginners days? Hi Pete, yes we do, have a look here: Getting Started

26.08.11

Tomas

(UK)

I was visiting a friend in Wales and we were riding bikes near his
house and came across the White Walls Hut. He got into telling caving
stories, so I made it a point to see what was in the web on these
places. Quite some history and interesting exploring. Cheers. Tomas

02.08.11

Kerith

(UK)

What a fantastic tour….. Grandmother lived in Ystragynlais and we used to come to Craig Y Nos and she would point mysteriously up to the hill and tell me about the caves… Never had the bravery to try it out apart from a school trip to Penmachno slate mine…but the virtual tour was fantastic. Will show my children….shame they are too young to try it out for themselves.

02.07.11

Steve Warne

(NZ)

Hi there, just reminiscing about OFD and SWCC. Nice to see you are still going! I was a very active SWCC member in the late 70s and 80s but then I moved to New Zealand and haven't been in a cave since as we have mountains instead! Hi Steve - yes we are very much still here! www.swcc.org.uk

17.05.11

Will

 

My name is Will, I am 7 and would like to go down this cave.

07.02.11

Mark

MNRC
(UK)

As an over-the-hill caver this awesome virtual tool lets me do more than I'm capable in real life. Those traverses sure look scary.
Thanks Mark - they are!

30.10.10

Amy

(USA)

Hehe cool website! Les linked me to it :-) I can’t wait to see that for real next month! :D I shared the link with some of my friends who cave, they commented it is almost as cool as TAG haha. I don’t know…I think it might be cooler, I guess I’ll get to be the judge! ~Amy Michigan Interlakes Grotto MI, USA. Thanks Amy ~ Let us know how you get on!

19.10.10

Keith
Woodham

(UK)

Really enjoyed your virtual tour. I used to be a keen caver on the Mendips many years ago and your tour brought back happy memories especially with the sound effects. Will have to be content with 'armchair' caving now cos I'm 66 and have a heart condition which would make me a liability to any party! Well done.

20.09.10

Frank
Helm

(UK)

I really enjoyed your tour. I did it for real numerous times between 1968 - 71 whilst a member of UC5 whilst a student. Could not fit through anymore and certainly don't have the stamina. Thanks for the memories of my youth!

29.04.10

Jill

(?)

That was really amazing...may have the chance to experience that myself one day...thankyou so much for sharing that with me ..brilliant
Jill future caving member :-)

22.02.10

Maggie

(UK)

Peter, the website is spectacular! I was asked to go on it for some school work, and I wish I could go there myself and explore all those tunnels and canyons!
From Maggie :-) Thanks Maggie!

06.02.10

Maggie
Cainen

(Wales)

Hi Peter, loved the tour to the waterfalls, made no mistakes got straight there however I used to be a SWCC member a very long time ago. After a total of 13 ortho ops I only cave from my armchair now but I will tell all my friends about the site. Cheers Maggie Cainen Swansea
PS I used to cave with Trevor!

11.08.09

Steve
Jones

(AUS)

Once upon a time I had a drive around trying to find any of the entrances / exits to this cave (after taking the show cave tour in Dan yr Ogof) but couldn't find it. I did quite a lot of caving during my school days back in Bristol including trips to South Wales and Yorkshire but was never fortunate or organised enough to have visited Ogof Ffynnon Ddu. What makes that possibility even more remote these days is the fact that we've been living in Perth for the last 6 years. I'd still like to visit the cave properly though, especially after seeing this excellently constructed virtual tour. Think I'll take another look again straight after lunch!
Cheers, Steve Jones. :-)  Thanks Steve - give us a call if you are over sometime and we'll show you around!

11.06.09

John Forder

CPC
(UK)

Having just done the trip from Top Entrance to OFD I in real life (what a trip – must be the finest stream passage in Britain, probably of world status), I was intrigued to see how it was portrayed on your site; an excellent and entertaining effort – congratulations.

18.04.09

Elaine
Susan Hill

(UK)

Excellent virtual tour

09.03.09

Nigel
Atkins

(UK)

Nice one Pete, a true inpspiration to what caving is really about.
Nige N. Atkins DCA

08.03.09

Gareth
Daniel

(S Wales)

Just viewed the virtual tour of OFD. Absolutely brilliant and a great interactive website. A lovely reminder of my visits to OFD I and III with my students from school back in the early 80s. I only wish I still had the energy and flexibility to do the real thing. Still, this is the next best thing! I will be using this website with my GCSE and A-level Geology and Geography students in school and I'm sure they will be equally impressed. Some of them might even decide to give the real thing a try. Many thanks for providing such a fantastic resource. Gareth Daniel
Whitchurch High School, Cardiff.

03.01.09

Brian Davies

(UK)

Brilliant..from a non-caver. Thanks for sharing this Brian Davies

18.09.08

Wayne
Shakell

(N Wales)

Must have been great fun and time consuming for the photographer! Carry on the good work.Wayne Shakell (MIC) North Wales (Gog)

22.07.08

Brian
Lloyd

(UK)

It’s the second time I've attempted the virtual tour and every time I get lost! Its not surprising as I get lost every time I go down for real!

19.07.08

Robert Fowler

(USA)

Hooray for the brave photographer and his long-suffering assistants!
I live in Davenport, Iowa, and I have not been caving for several years. The OFD virtual tour is a great deal of fun. I will come back to look at more of the cave. Thank you for all the time and effort it took to create the virtual tour.  :-) Thanks Robert ~ and they are very long-suffering!

08.06.08

Peter Foreman

(UK)

Hi peter, I have had much pleasure in exploring OFD once again .It is a long time since I did caving in South Wales .
I was a member of SWCC in 1957 and took part in the dig up from Dip Sump .It was a bit like digging your way up through a bag of pea nuts . Unfortunately I was posted from RAF St Athan to Christmas Island so that ended my connection with you all. On return I still continued caving in the Nortern Dales and spent a lot of time exploring Fairy Holes in Weardale .Unfortunately that cave closed down and so ended caving for me.You have produced a truly fabulous web site .Many thanks for all your efforts.  Thanks Peter do drop by if you are in the area - your digging above Dip Sump was of course crucial to finding the dry way from 1 to 2

28.05.08

John Hutchinson

(UK)

Nice work indeed, my daughter Clare has just shown me how to make it work! She was inspired to do the virtual trip after making her first visit to OFD for about 12 years last Saturday, with me and a couple of mates. (I can't blame her for her temporary retirement from caving, she was 10 years old or so at the time and her social diary was beginning to get too busy for caving trips with mum and dad.) Lovely pix, it must have been loads of work for you and the team, but well worth it. Hope to see you in person soon to buy you a non-virtual congratulatory beer! Best regards,
John Hutchinson

22.04.08

Mac
Stephens

(Wales)

Fantastic visit, brought back good memories. Regards Mac, Wales

01.04.08

Ffion
Bell

(NI/
Wales)

Great site, great pictures etc. Just started caving last year at Queen's uni Belfast, great fun... haven't done anything in Wales yet, but have been promised a trip back home at some point :-) I'm looking forward haha. If anyone's interested in coming to our stomping ground, Fermanagh has some class caves too. Ffion, Belfast

15.03.08

Frank
Beasley

(UK)
Chester-field CC

Fantastic! Nice (well, sort of) to see what we've got to deal with to get to OFD III on Saturday! (Don't worry, we'll mind the weather!).

12.03.08

Kerrin
Malone

(UK)

Hi. Your excellent web site made sense of my trip two weekends ago with the Wessex Geriatric Group to OFD 1! Since it was the first time I’d been down the cave since 1968, I suppose I should have been prepared for the amazing black limestone, the lack of smell and the superb passages (but then I have been used to Mendip during the mid 60’s to late 70’s). Despite this being only the second time I’ve been caving since 1989 enjoyed it immensely. Next time the through trip perhaps.

03.03.08

Alex
Allardice

(UK)

What a joy! It was in '68 that I enjoyed my first vision of 'Gnome's Passage' and the Trident. I was one of those who crawled through uncharted maps hoping for safe exit - especially the squeeze demonstrated on your pictures!

14.01.08

Richard
Roll

(GB)

Amazing - I have never been caving, but after seeing this site a month ago I have joined my local club and hope to do the system with my son later this year, for my 50th birthday. You're never too old to start something new!  Great! Let us know how you get on!

06.01.08

Ken

(Ger)

Great tour. Went in last year through the top entrance and had a lot of questions last thanks to your tour here are now answered. Great job!

06.01.08

Stuart
Taylor

(GB)

Thanks for makeing a disabled ex caver happy i have allways wanted to see this cave. I live about 5 miles away.

01.01.08

Nigel
Wing

(NZ)

Absolutly fantastic. Did OFD many times in the late 80s and early 90s with South Sea spelo. Now living in NZ. Will do through trip with wife later over a bottle of wine.  :-) don't spill any!

28.12.07

Peter
Ryder

(UK)

Great stuff. (Discovered stumbling around the web looking for caving things...)

27.12.07

Richard

(Eng)

Fantastic site! (Reccommended by a friend)

25.12.07

Rachel
Ashton

(UK)

Did some of the system in late 70's with nottingham university cc. i really enjoyed your tour. much easier than hauling on my wetsuit....although it does still fit!

19.12.07

Hannah

(USA)

That was so much fun. I loved all of the different views of the inside of the cavern. The stalagmites and stalactites looked so cool. My mom helped me type this.  :-) Thanks Hannah, I'm glad you enjoyed exploring!

15.12.07

Caroline
Williams

(UK)

Wicked site. Can't wait to visit system. Well done. Will be visiting this system soon. Did an internet search - your link came tops.

12.12.07

Katherine
Cooper

(USA)

Beautiful place .....

26.11.07

Chris
Timberlake

(AUS)

Good Day Peter, just back from my virtual trip to the columns, finaly made it without dropping the key!! Well worth the effort, wish I could have seen them in real life! All the Best, Chris

23.11.07

Rodger
Smith

(USA)

Great Site! I am a disenfranchised engineer and, now, substitute teach. I am trying to get the science teachers and students to use this site. Tons of info. You guys did a great job. Most of my caving has ben in New York State and West Virginia. Keep up the good work.  Thanks!

13.11.07

Dai the
spy

(Wales)

Brilliant much the nicest trip I've done in years, come to think of it, it is the only trip I've done for years. Almost tempts me to come out of retirement. Could you include a virtual trip to the Copper Beech as well? Thanks Dai.  Good idea! Except we tend to drink at The Gwyn these days!

10.11.07

Chris
Timberlake

(AUS)

Ahh what memories!! Used to be a member of the South Wales Caving Club back in the sixties, around the time of the move from the old cottage to the present ones. Alas I am now confined to a wheel chair with Motor Neurone Disease. At least, thanks to your wonderful site, I can revisit old favorites and explore the new ones! Thank you so much!!! Chris.  Thanks Chris!

18.10.07

Neil
Ringdahl

(Peru)

Great site for a great cave, having visited it last year it was great to see where I got my direction wrong, and the places where there were some awesome memories. If youre keen to do some caving in Peru, give me a buzz.  Thanks!

14.10.07

Adam

(Eng)

Wow. what an amazing tour!!

11.10.07

Jack
Randell

(Hades CC)

Great site, great piccies! Despite having been to OFD many times in the last 25 years or so I have hardly scratched the surface so it is good to see so much more with so little pain!

04.10.07

Chris
Watson

(Wales)

I'M PRACTICING THE CAVE FROM THE WARMTH OF MY HOUSE. EXCELLENT REALLY WANT TO CAVE NOW BUT ITS 12.30AM AND ITS TAKEN ME HALF HOUR TO GET HERE!! WILL RETURN IN THE FLESH WITHIN THE MONTH. HOPEFULLY BEFORE THE GROUND FROSTS!!!!!!!!!

02.10.07

Alan
Herbert

(Eng)

Went round OFD with my scouts led by Idris - great cave - why did I never get to do this when I was their age???!!! I shall feel just that little bit less comfortable on the mountains knowing there is all that space below my feet!

30.09.07

Steven Arndell

(Wales)

I didn;t realise there was such beauty only a few miles from me

21.09.07

Nicola

(Wales)

What a great virtual tour. I'm claustraphobic and there's no way I could ever go caving, but it was excellent to be able to see what's down there. I'll stick to walking above the surface but thanks for sharing your experiences below.

20.09.07

David

(Wales)

Fantastic site! Wish I'd found it before but better late than never.
Hope somebody does similar ones for other caves/systems like Titan ( another amazing UK find ) or the Lechuguilla ones in New Mexico.
Guess you'll be inundated now that it's been on BBC News site!  Yes, 6 months worth of visitors in 3 days! Thanks everyone!

19.09.07

Jacinta

(Cymru)

Fantastic site I thoroghly enjoyed it. Want to visit for real now.

19.09.07

Roger
Griffin-
Walker

(Scot)

Wonderful site! I must admit I was totally engrossed yesterday and spent hours making my way through. The photos are amazing and you all obviously had great fun, but to put together a site such as this is quite remarkable. I was so pleased when I found the key, but havn't told my son where it was yet!. We have only ever been to show caves in the past, Dan yr Ogof and Grottes de Sara in the Pyranees., but to experience what 'lies beyond' in safety was very special. Huge thankyou, and when we are next in the area we may contact you to see if there is a chance of a trip?
Sure, go to www.swcc.org.uk and you will find how to contact us.

19.09.07

Jason

(Wales)

what a brilliant idea.

19.09.07

Howard
Bartlett

(Wales)

Awsome pictures!

18.09.07

Ian
Cross

(UK)

I visited the system a number of times in the late 1970's as a member of Queen Mary College Caving Club and the Westminster Speleological Group. A fantastic site and excellent memory jogger. Some very good photographs. A well thought out website. Excellent.

18.09.07

Gwern Tudur

(Cymru)

Gwefan bendigedig!  Thanks, it means "marvellous site" so I'm told!

18.09.07

Richard
Brookman

(UK)

I used to do a lot of caving in my younger days - late 70s and 80s - mainly in Yorkshire and Derbyshire. I doubt if I would have the agility to do it again (or the desire - cold and wet are different in your 20s). But this tour brought it all back - it really gives the feel of caving in a way I didn't think possible. Well done - you've brought me back a lot of happy memories.

18.09.07

Chloe
Elston

(UK)

Beautiful caves and an excellent site. Amazing to get the real feel of caving from the warmth and safety of my desk! Takes me back to Uni days, where I would venture into the dark! Loved it.

18.09.07

Andy

(Wales)

One of the purposes of the 'WEB' being utilised so well. An experience designed to be shared with others using superb photography and great enthusiansm. Thoroughly enjoyed it!

17.09.07

Liz

-

Amazing pictures and the tour is wonderful. Best website I've seen in ages. Well done!

17.09.07

Bobbi Schlatterer

(USA)

(nt)

17.09.07

Michael Dowse

(USA)

I used to go caving here in south Georgia. I am too old for it now, but the photos sure make it look like fun. I hope you guys enjoy your cave and stay safe. Take care...Mike

17.09.07

Darren Coleman

(Wales)

brilliant....! great site and hours of fun thankyou

17.09.07

Allen Bowkett

(UK)

Excellent!! Really interesting, and very easy to get immersed in.

17.09.07

Beth

(Wales)

This site is brillant. Don`t think I`d like to try it in real life though.

17.09.07

Steve Williams

(USA)

What a fabulous set of photographs with a great way of linking them. Very effective. Always a pleasure to read about my country of birth. I look forward to my next visit.

17.09.07

Della

(USA)

Excellent site, you did a fantastic job it's a lot of fun. Going to give my kids the link tonight so they can have a go, better than the junk they go to! Job well done give yourself a pat on the back!!!!

17.09.07

Elinor

(Wales)

Well done but you'll never catch me in a cave like that so nice to see from comfort & safety of my home :O)

17.09.07

Wendi

(Scot)

Why? Why? - I mean WHY would anyone want to go through these tunnels???? There's mad you are!!!!
Seriously - Great site - thank you for making it possible for a cowardy custard like me to see these wonders - because I'll never be going down there in person!   :-)

17.09.07

Peter
Guinan

(UK)

I went into Ogof Fynon Ddu in the 70s and your tour brought it all back to me. Magnificent. Peter

17.09.07

Jonathan
Howells

(Wales)

watt a fantastic site i could never go into a cave but this the next best thing

17.09.07

Derek
Taylor

(Wales)

What a beautiful & very fascinating website. Well done the photographer(s) the web designers but especially the (mad)potholers that brought this wonderful spectacle up to the surface for us all to enjoy!

17.09.07

Frank

(UK)

well done fantastic site, well worth another visit. pictures brill, will tell my mates

17.09.07

Mr Carey
Thomas

(Wales)

Between 1979 & 1981 I was working as an assistant outdoor pursuits instructor at a place called Minerva Outdoor Ventures in a converted farm (possibly called Rhongir Isaf or Uchaf). I was introduced to caving initially by going down Graig Y Nos cave above the farm of the same name. A small system but ideal for taking down children from the centre.
Myself and other instructors were privileged to be invited to go down into the nearby OFD1 by the SW Caving Club just up the road in Penwyllt Quarry (where a part of the film 'Young Winstone' was shot).
Even now in my late forties I will never forget the experience. I can still remember vividly the bolt traverse with the water rushing below. It gave me a taste for caving and soon after I went down the nearby Little Neath River Cave with a fellow colleague (Martin from Yorkshire) where I saw a pure white trout. It was like being a kid in a sweet shop. This site has brought back many happy memories and I thank you for it.

Discovered browsing - Starting talking about my younger days and decided to do some research on the cave systems in South Wales.

17.09.07

Keith

(Eng)

Thank you for putting so much work into the cave complex and making it accessible too so many people through 1. the virtual tour and 2. by opening the cave system up. The caving system looks fantastic and beautiful.
The web pages are informative and the virtual tour and photographs are 1st class. Thank you again. Keith  :-) Thanks it's our pleasure! Thanks to everyone for all these messages, its hard to keep up!

17.09.07

Martin
Evans

(Wales)

extremely well put together web site, excellent photos

17.09.07

Naweed

(Eng)

I love the site, great work.

17.09.07

Dave Oakden

(Eng)

what a fascinating insight, well done.

17.09.07

Jackie
Snape

(Wales)

Very interesting and gives a good insight. Only been caving once back in the 70s. I was at Barry College and we used to go on outdoor pursuits courses and once went to Dan yr Ogof, enjoyed it then, but too long in the tooth now!!!! so great to have a sight like this. Thank you

17.09.07

EA
Williams

(Wales)

Wow, this is fantastic! I've just spent nearly two hours running around the system. It's like Colossal Cave, but with pictures. "Xyzzy!" Drat, nothing happened...

17.09.07

Stace

(Spain)

Many thanks I've just completed my second traverse of the cave, the first was for real... errr 29 years ago. Now I feel old, but you have brought back some great memories. I must consider rejoining the sport now I live in Spain.

17.09.07

Edski

(Eng)

Most impressive. Terrific pix!

16.09.07

Lloyd
Gibbs

(GB)

Excellent site, thanks for the virtual tour, it's great and I hope to visit the cave sometime soon. Keep up the good work...
Regards. Lloyd Gibbs

16.09.07

Andrea

(UK)

What an amazing feat to have explored the system and finally broken through like that and what a brilliantly evocative and informative site.

16.09.07

Sian
Morris

(Wales)

10/10

16.09.07

Philip
Pankhurst

(Eng)

An excellent site, quite apart from the astounding cave system

16.09.07

Sally Blackledge

(Scot)

The nearest I'd allow myself to squeezing through underground passages. I've been to Dan yr Ogof and that's scary enough for me.

16.09.07

David
Ede

(Wales)

haven't been in ofd since accompanying joe jennings and marg sweeting many years ago congratulations on an excellent site brought back many memories of trips with paddy o'reilly, denis kemp etc.

16.09.07

Jackie

(Wales)

Fantastic photos and website. I have been climbing but never caving - bit too old now - but it is great to see the underground systems and try to find my way around. Will visit the site again frequently.

16.09.07

Dave

(Wales)

Hi great site and it has got me all reved up to join North Wales Caving Club so after a phone call they are taking me to Poachers cave in Cilcain! Cant wait :D

10.09.07

Lisa
Lewis

(USA)

Extemely cool! I haven't been caving in years, and I tried to get to these caves when I was last in Wales a while back. We didn't have time to do this ourselves. Great photos!

10.09.07

Gary

(Oxford)

Seemed pretty easy, maybe because my first ever trip was Long Henslers at gaping gill, but Im sure it will be a bit harder to do in real life. But other than that the trip was pleasurely exciting. Many thanks for the experience.

07.09.07

Mike
Allcock

(UK)

What an amazing site! I do a bit of site building and I'd be very very proud indeed to produce anything like this! I emailed a friend tonight to tell him about the site - he'd seen the recent BBC program on caving and was full of awe about the formations etc. so I thought he'd enjoy a trip through the superb photographs here. I happened to mention to him that I'd been the 38th person to complete the hardest part of the through trip (I wish![Grin]) back in October 2003 and asked him to note what the counter had reached now if he got there.
After sending the email I couldn't resist having another go myself, and I'm surprised to find it's only up to 495 after nearly 4 years. Hey, maybe if I wasn't too fat, almost an OAP and hadn't spent my life climbing up rather than down I could be a crack caver! [Very Big Grin] If you do make any additions I'd be very pleased to hear about them.
Again, congratulations on a superb site. All best wishes Mike Allcock.

Thanks Mike, in fact I think the number of virtual "through trippers" is about similar to the number of real ones.

04.09.07

Steve
Fisher

(NZ)

Hi, this brought back memories. I did OFD I and II back in 95....It was a great experience and a truly great cave. Keep caving guys and girls.....I know I would if I was there and 15 years younger

26.08.07

Frank

(USA)

One of those things that make you want to say hummm. Wonder how much energy, time, and resources this has eaten up? Not an endeavor for the financially challenged I'll wager eh wot?  Hi Frank - in fact you can join a club and go caving real cheap!

25.08.07

Libby

(UK)

Came across this site by accident and have thoroughly enjoyed myself.....couldn't do it for real though..too claustophobic! Watched a BBC prog about Titan and it fired my imagination.

25.08.07

Kyle
Holman

(UK)

Well Done for one of the best websites i have ever to come across, letting you explore the cave with pictures and choose your route brilliant. It must have taken ages to build but the effort is there for all to see.
Well done :) Which system is next
Discovery: researching the deepest cave in uk on google, to do the highest point in uk to the deepest in 24hrs.

24.08.07

Emma
Judson

(UK)

I've not been down OFD since about '96, and that was before i knew how to work the internet or indeed a computer! (No im not that old i just watched my father on a computer and thought 'thats NOT for me..., all that swearing....) Nice to go through the system virtually.. for those not so fat and lazy as I, get down it for real! I love the pictures of the Toastrack. Just as i remember it from childhood :)

20.08.07

Robin
Bennett

(GB)

as an x member i am glad that i can still see wot's going on down there. how is lorry doing in his cottage? is bee still about?  Yes they're both going strong as far as I know!

18.08.07

Rpbert
Rushworth

(UK)

Did OFD in 1976 out of Reading Uni- had to be rescued as some joker charged our batteries only to half way - bit of carbide ans some mars bars saved the day. Brings back such memories.. the best meal of my life sausage and beans in a hut further down.

17.08.07

Tim
Mohn

(USA)

Well, this is a great vicarious experience for me seeing how that I am very claustrophobic. I used to go caving with a friend in a small cave outside my home town as a teenager, but eventually had to stop because of the panic attacks. So I really am thankful something like this exists.
~ I am doing research fo a video game I am creating which will feature some caves in a certain puzzle level.

14.08.07

Mike
Jones

(UK)

This is a brilliant site - and clearly a brilliant cave too.
Heard about it 30 years ago (the cave) but had no idea where it was exactly. Well done, keep exploring!
~ Discovered via a link through a geography teacher's forum.

14.08.07

Jennifer

(Eng)

Went into OFD1 for the first time yesterday with Hereford Caving Club. My muscles felt sore this morning but I loved the caving. The virtual tour showed me other parts of the cave I might get to once my strength and confidence grows.

06.08.07

Taylor

(NL)

Very nice site but i'm very happy that i'm not underground because it looks very spooky! Marijke told it to me. Taylor (10 years old)

04.08.07

Mary Croxton

(UK)

great fun (again!)

31.07.07

Aaron
Rumbellow

(Eng)

brilliant experiance i am just doing my caving courses now so hopefully soon i can take groups down.

24.07.07

Patricia

(UK)

Great website but can't find the key to the gate, can you help me please?  Any luck now?

24.07.07

Colin
King

(Wales)

For a cloustrophobic like me its a great way to see caves and all there wonders, keep up the good work.

23.07.07

John Forder

(UK)

Great fun! Having just had to abort the real through trip on Saturday (14/7) owing to all the rain, I guess this is the next-best thing . . . but we'll be back (in real life, that is).  Thanks John - many moons ago, in fact about 25 years (!) I came to Whernside Manor on a caving course and you took us underground - I still remember the dire warnings of floods - glad that you are still being prudent!

20.07.07

Brian
Farmer

(Nth
Wales)

Twenty five years since I was down OFD what a great web site. Arm chair Caving at its best.

08.07.07

little helen and stu

(Mendip)

hey peter just been showing your site off still good fun when u guna do dan-yr-ogof! see u at the meeting on the weekend hellie x  :-) one day!

01.07.07

Raheil Ahmad

(Scot)

I found the website very inciteful and helpful. Without this i would of definatley not of been able to understand the complexity of the caves and the intricate tunnels systems within them.

21.06.07

Blanca Aili

(Colombia)

Wonderfull experience,I dream to do it in real, but need a bit of courage, ive got an adventure hearth, Id like to know if u found any animals in there, how long it takes the whole exploration,how deep from the outside is the deepest part, is there any cave underneath of ponds? what about living in.  Hi Blanca, in the UK, we have bats that live some of the time in caves, and also occasionally albino, blind cave fish or newts. In this cave you can go from the bottom entrance, OFD 1 to Smiths Armoury at the far end of OFD 3 in between 3 and 6 hours depending how fit you are and how well you know the cave. It would take at least a week to explore all the passages! The deepest part is probably 50 or 60m below the surface, although the total drop is 300m.

12.06.07

Richard de Warrenne

(Wales)

We have a cave at our property near Newcastle Emlyn in South Wales which apparently travels for about 1 mile but has been blocked up - who would be interested in pursuing this further?

10.06.07

Zis

(Serbia)

Wonderful exploration. Brilliant idea at first place and very, very interesting presentation of the cave. Best wishes to your friends and You and many safe explorations.  Thanks and also to you!

01.06.07

Alan

(Eng)

Excellent site! I gave up caving 30 years ago, it brought back memories.

30.05.07

Bob

(USA)

awesome

25.05.07

Katie
Ann

(USA)

Cool tour

17.05.07

Peter
Collinge

(UK)

What a brilliant trip! Never been to OFD but did a lot of caving in Yorkshire many moons ago. Brought back some great memories. Thanks.

13.05.07

Geoff
Driver

(Eng)

what a great virtual tour of ogof. if i was......years younger i would love to join you for a real look. i,m just about to send your web details to my two sons, one in oz, the other in n/z they will be truly amazed congratulations. by the way i made the through trip phew  Well done!

13.05.07

Anne-Marie
Rhys Evans

(Wales)

Thank you for the tour. A few generations ago my family owned some of the quarries and also the pub, called The Stump, that you can see over the way, where Swindon have their quarters. The old people would never have believed what a magical world was under their feet. Thanks again.
Thanks Anne-Marie, it's good to have that history connection!

08.05.07

Caitlyn

(USA)

That was awesome... but of coarse i had to have some help from my friends to go through... they are...were afraid... they kept saying climb out....!! i hate creepy crawleis... by.. not much point to this but i was looking this up for a science project.  Thanks Caitlyn - I'm glad you weren't scared!

19.04.07

John
Cale

(UK)

Great idea. Should be more of the same, for other caves.

15.04.07

Andrea

(CAN)

I've always been fascinated by caves/caving. Last week I was chatting with a client in Vancouver British Columbia and turns out she was part of the original team to explore OFD II in the 60s. She pointed me to this amazing website! I hope to see the real thing someday.

15.04.07

Andrew
Ashley

(Wales)

Fantastic photos. Did a little caving in South Wales with the Boys Brigade in the 70's - Mainly the Little Neath caves - Bridge and Flood Entrance I recall very well even after 30+ years. Would love to go down again some time.

11.04.07

Simon
Parker

(UK)

A huge amount of work went into this. Well done!

10.04.07

Sven
Gunnvall

(Sweden)

good fun! think I´ll stick to armchair caving in the future...

02.04.07

Ken
Tonge

(Scot)

What a fab tour!!! It's got a lot bigger since I was there, I guess about 1964 with RCAT Salford Club. Too old for that kind of stuff now - Sad.
Thanks Ken - I was with the Salford Uni caving club! (SUCPC), 1980 ish!

30.03.07

Catherine
Asbridge

(UK)

Stayed at SWCC for the first time this weekend and went with a group led by Graham for an introductory tour of the Welsh caves. It was a wonderful day and your virtual tour has brought it all back to me from the comfort of home. Thank-you!

25.03.07

Paul

(UK)

Excellent site....not quite how i remember it but it was 22 yrs ago i did this trip with university of kent trogs ( with swcc on a derigging trip)..

25.03.07

Brian
Rodda

(UK)

I used to cave for, I guess 10 or more years. Of all the caves I visited OFD has always been my favourite. This is a great site and challenges my memory of getting around. I was kinda going to OFD3 (the giants locker ? - cant remember the name now), I'll get there in a while. Thanks for the brill site.

16.03.07

R
Sellar

(UK)

must get my gear out of the garage!

13.03.07

Mary
Croxton

(Eng)

lovely to see OFD again after 45 years, since my trips in the sixties it has grown and grown your photos were great !!!

10.03.07

Stev
Pointon

(Eng)

excellent site, I will be visiting ofd with cheddar caving club in the near future, your site was an excellent insight. thank you

07.03.07

Geoff
Vernon

(UK)

Good fun web site, gives a long retired caver a bit of fun.

04.03.07

Dave
Barker

(Eng)

That was quality. Did OFD a few years back when i was at uni with lufbra caving club. just like being back there! nice work.

02.03.07

Leigh
Williams

(USA)

Super! Very inventive and with great photos. Excellent work. I'll definitely tell my friends to come visit the site, too. The underground spaces are so incredible; I want to experience the real thing. The slippery traverses above the river do give me pause, however. And the Post Box? Eeee -Leigh Williams, Washington, USA

13.02.07

Peggy

(USA)

peter, this is great! thanks! i just went caving for the first time this weekend. i loved it! :)  Thanks :-)

01.02.07

Alan
Bowring

(Wales)

Nice work! enjoyed the tour Having been underground in the Peak and Dales it's about time to explore S. Wales - must get round to seeing it in the flesh.

29.01.07

Tracie
Tipper

(Eng)

WOW!

29.01.07

caver

(Eng)

this is great footage of caving . ive been going underground for the past 30 years . good stuff //////////////

20.01.07

THE Red Dragon

(UK)

I'm not a caver but have had an interest in underground 'holes' for most of my life. Heart disease now stops me trying the real thing - so a big thank you for helping me go down a superb 'hole' if only via a flat panel monitor!!! Congratulations on your amazing tour.....

07.01.07

Ken
Gladman

(AUS)

HOORAY ! I found my Brother, Keith.
Only with your help. Thank you for your assistance.
Signed: Ken Gladman
That's great news! (original message July 06)

04.01.07

Robbie
Warke

(UK)

What a great thing....well done chaps

03.01.07

Dave
Cross

(Eng)
SBSS

Just looking at what the high water over New Year stopped us seeing. We will be back in the Summer!

03.01.07

Pete
Gray

(Eng)

The tour was excellent. Until old age caught up with me I spent many happy times caving in the UK, this site brought back lots of memories.

01.01.07

Peter Wilkinson

(N Wales)

A brilliant piece of work. Very entertaining and brings back lots of memories of arduous caving trips. Now I am too unfit and much fatter but this web site has allowed me to re-live the action. The sound on the site is just great !

01.01.07

Jack

(UK)
RFDCC

Hi I visited OFD2 on the 27th. My first cave, wow!
Thanks to SWCC for letting us change in their club house(es)! Lovely common room I must add. -Jack (Forest of Dean Caving Club)

29.12.06

Gareth
Jones

(N Wales)

fantastic tour. beautiful pictures.would love a trip sometime.

28.12.06

David
Lloyd

(ENG)

I gotta say the quality of photography is excellent and anybody that has tried to take photo's underground with mud, water and darkness will know what I mean. Well done to all concerned.  Thanks, and a Happy and Peaceful Christmas to everyone!

23.12.06

Brian
Lloyd

(ENG)
BPC

A VERY CLEVER WAY OF SHOWING OFF THIS TREMENDOUS CAVE.
I'VE BEEN LOST IN IT MANY TIMES!!!

19.12.06

Tony
Melourne

(ENG)

SPENT WEEKEND IN WALES WENT DOWN OFD 11 I WAS BLOWN AWAY,SOME ADRENALINE RAISING TRAVERSES LOVED EVERY MINUTE....DONE LITTLE NEATH THE NEXT DAY WHAT A WEEKEND!

17.12.06

Dave
Glover

(Wales)

A fantastic amount of effort from Peter has made this a magical mystery tour. My first ever caving trip was (perhaps unwisely) a four or five hour wander around in OFD top a little more than twenty years ago. I don't know if I would have taken up the sport if I hadn't had such a great introduction. I have been back to OFD many times since but fear I am no longer fit enough to go all the places I once could. Thanks for the memories.

15.12.06

Steve

(Eng)

Brought back good memories of visits to the cave in the 70's.......

06.12.06

Karen!

(Glasgow)

my goodness!! this is absolutely phenomenal.. luvin itttt yass. however the little cursor is slightly annoying and will not return to the site until it is removed. cheers

01.12.06

saz

(Scot)

dougie babi - loving the site mahn!! keep up the gd work aftazxx

01.12.06

Frank

(Eng)

Up to the top?

Found this site by accident boy am i glad i did, its brilliant i'm going to have to pay a visit sometime do you do actual tours? Or i suppose you would have to be well expirienced and a cc member? I would welcome some info on that.Anyway fantastic site.  Thanks! Have a look at our club website, you don't have to be experienced or super-fit to start, but is a good idea to join a club. For more info about caving in the UK generally have a look at www.caving.uk.com

29.11.06

Richard
Whitworth

(Eng)

I wish other caves would do a virtual tour for us that are too big

28.11.06

Sharon

(Can)

Thanks! My grade 4 students will love this.

21.11.06

Nick
Hammond

(Eng)

wonderful if only I was 30 years younger!

19.11.06

Becky
Hubbard

(UK)

Great to look at the cave I went into this summer with members of SWCC

18.11.06

Keith

(Eng)

Absolute fantastic tour,really interested in caving,now i will be going,thanks keith.

16.11.06

Dean
Jenkins

(S.Wales)

Absolutely fantastic website. Very impressed with the formations as well as variety of directions of travel. Well Done!

16.11.06

Tom
Phillips

(ENG)

OFD is an amazing cave. I was lucky enough to have been taken on a trip down OFD 2 last year as staff training for Tirabad recreational centre. We never got the chance to sample the warmth of the club house but maybe, one day. BTW, just seen a trailer for next weeks Torchwood episode and noticed that it is filmed at the club house, very cool....

15.11.06

Ian
Scott

(UK)

Fantastic, brings back many happy memories of my trips around OFD. I must get back into caving again.

14.11.06

Chris
Howard

(UK)

Great website. Brought back some good memories from when I was in my uni caving club. I was lucky enough to go down OFD and its fantastic. Personally I do get the 'wedding cake' - use your imagination! btw Sean - the cheese press scared the **** out of me ;)

14.11.06

Florencio

(Sao Aulo)

not enough pictures but a bit of impressive caves

13.11.06

Sinead

(AUS)

Wonderful site,only way to go caving, for me any way.

11.11.06

Keith
Parrish

(Eng)

Fantastic tour. Brought back many very happy memories of my days with the club

10.11.06

Jake

(NZ)

Up to the top?

I've got to visit this place sometime before my time is up. Wow!
A neighbour, from Wales, spoke of this cave system, and Google did the rest. Great site. It's bloody frustrating trying to navigate the cave system from behind a PC screen, let alone first hand! See you there sometime.. Jake :-) Happy to show you around!

10.11.06

Sean

(Eng)

Excellent site. Only ever been caving once, did the cheese press somewhere near Ingleton, Yorkshire when I was 17.  That'll be in Lower Long Churn, part of the Alum Pot System at Selside. Try caving again sometime!

09.11.06

Doug
Scott

(UK)

Thanks for the memories. Age and arthritis have forced me to retire from caving. I spent many happy years as a member of SWCC. The virtual tour is excellent. I can still recognize the routes and it brings back a flood of memories.

08.11.06

Frank
Lee

(Eng)

Great trip. I was led to this site after hearing about Titan today on the BBC, they mentioned this system. I've been in awe of caves since a child and this year went into Gaping Ghyll via the winch.  Thanks!  Good to see a flurry of interest after the BBC article.

08.11.06

Andy

(UK)

Went to Top Waterfall on Saturday.
Stunning!
Nice one Vince...

07.11.06

Robin
Newby

(UK)

A most enjoyable trip, generally I would have no trouble with. I wasn't too happy sliding in backwards through the 'Post Box' though. A Member of the Grosvenor Caving Club, North Wales

05.11.06

John
Jones

(S Wales)

Visited this cave first in 1964 Many times after during 60's,70's. Now too old. Great to see & imagine I was caving again. Wonderful photography.

31.10.06

Peter
Skan

(UK)

Great fun!

26.10.06

Roger
Thayer

(Eng)

Up to the top?

An aardvarks paradise.Takes me back nearly 38 years a trip with Tony (black rat) Jarret and Tony White. Just found my copy of SWCC 21st annviversary publication. Still a good read.Thanks for the memories.  :-) I have that issue too - full of historic moments.

19.10.06

David
Tilley

(USA)

Awesome! I'm addicted

17.10.06

Peter

(Norway)

Nice tour, reminds me of my trips there 10 odd years ago. Congratulations on an excellant website

17.10.06

Reed

(USA)

This is an awesome website! Congratulations on a job well done!

08.10.06

Erica
Hilld

(AUS)

Fabulous fun. Too old for caving now so enjoyed the vicarious experience.
Thank you VERY much.  :-) ~ and thank you for setting a new literacy standard on the site! (And no, gentle reader, she is not a vicar - at least I don't think so!)

15.09.06

Pete
Wilkins

(ENG)

Takes me back 30 years! Brilliant.

12.09.06

Graham

(UK)

Brilliant photography, let alone the tour!
Nice one.

05.09.06

Dave
Curry

(UK)

Brilliant site

01.09.06

Mark
Craske

(ENG)

Wow! Better than Mendip ... by far!

01.09.06

Christa
Locke

(GER)

I want to go there...

28.08.06

Terry
Cooper

(Abercrave)

I would just like to say how impresive i thought the web site was, it makes me want to caving, then again it looks a bit tight in some places. intrested ter.

25.08.06

Dave D

Thanks for the tour, great site.
I usually climb above ground level, but will have to change that habit next time I come back to Wales. Can't sit here chatting, I'm off back to explore the rest of the caves!

23.08.06

Andy
Pickersgill

(UK)

We are going to OFD this Sat and I am looking for a route map from the top entrance to the streamway. Looks a good tour map but will make more sense when we all have been there.  Have fun!

10.08.06

Chris
Roberts

Harston CC
(Eng)

Superb, Loved reliving our(now dormant) club trips to Penwyllt in the 90's. The craic was as good as the caving. Congrats on a great site!

09.08.06

Elizabeth
&
Margaret

(Wales)

I've just been around your tour to see what more there was, after being shown a taster of OFD1 by some of your most pleasant and helpful members.We also enjoyed the talk and explainations given at the HQ Keep up the good work.

02.07.06

Ken
Gladman

(Aus)

 

Up to the top?

Looking for my Brother - Keith Gladman
I live in Sydney Australia & would request some help finding my Brother whom I last communicated with in 1961. Keith, I have learnt from people in Portobello Road, has been repairing ancient pocket watches for the last ten years & works the Bath Antiques Market.
He is about 63 years old. He is a keen speleoligist & knows the Mendips well. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you in anticipation. Signed: Ken Gladman
kenglad@optusnet.com.au
Ken, you could also try posting a message on the caver's forum at www.caving.uk.com . You could also try to contact the Mendip Caving Group www.m-c-g.org.uk in case they have heard of him. All the best. PCW

01.07.06

Steve Roberts

(UK)

Well done!

29.06.06

Felix Cryer

(Wales)

The tour was amazing! I didnt think anything so beautiful existed in our amazing country! I cant believe I havent been told or tout about this!
Thanks alot, Felix (15 yrs)

28.06.06

Phil

(Wales)

Hi, just done a surface walk around Pwll y Rhyd today and sparked an interest i've always had. Found your site when i got home ,amazing photos ,thankyou.  :-) Congatulations! You and Zucca are nearest to the 10,000 th visitor to follow the lure of the virtual underground since I launched it in Oct 2002! Thanks one and all in fact for all your positive comments! PCW

25.06.06

Zucca

(IT/UK/
USA)

I was a keen novice trying to impress my newly aquired caver boyfriend. We did *all* OFD I *upstream*. you can call it genius if you want but after nearly 8 hours of struggling at the boundary of my possibilities I elected caving to be my sport. Thank you for the pictures: (when we were there it was far more wet :S )

24.06.06

Rick
Rogers

(West Yorks
UK)

great tour thanks

21.06.06

Jimmy
Gardner
-Gaskin

(AUS)

a fantastic site - thank you for sharing the caves with us hopefully one day we will be there in person.

12.06.06

Lina

(NL)

I am 4 years old and I really liked the tour. now I know why aunt marijke likes wales.  :-) Thank you Lina - your English is very good! I hope you can come to visit the caves one day.

10.06.06

Shelly

(USA)

Marvelous site - you've obviously put alot of time and effort into it. The cave system is beautiful and thank you for giving me a way to see it from "across the pond"!  :-)

31.05.06

Roger W

(UK/
China)

Brilliant site! I dropped the key a couple of times before I got to the columns, though.. Must bookmark this, and come back again.  :-) Well done for getting to the columns!

25.05.06

Nikki

(Eng)

superb virtual trip. Made me want to expore them properly!

18.05.06

Brian
Donahue

(USA)

Don't blame me for George W.. Like most Americans, I didn't vote for him.

16.05.06

Jo

(AUS)

Superb site! I particularly liked reading the stories from some of the original members of exploration back in the early days. Riveting stuff!  :-)

12.05.06

Wal
Gamble

(SA)

In 1985 you good folk showed my wife Frances and I around OFD. It is still vivid and unforgettable in my mind, one of the best caves I ever visited. Cold though, in RSA we have nice warm caves generally. It was great to walk (crawl & climb ) down memory lane.
Thank you for then and now - WAL   Our pleasure!

11.05.06

Dave
Allanson

(UK)

Brilliant tour must see more, thanks for building it.

30.04.05

David &
Jackie

(Nth Yorks UK)

A superb site, we love the sound effects! When are you going to do the Gaping Gill System?  Now that's an idea! And we can drop in on that lovely couple we know . .

25.04.06

John
Marino

(USA)

Loved the tour and will take it again soon. Am going to tell others about it also. Thank you for providing an outlet for people who aren't as mobile as they once were. Sincerely, John Marino

23.04.06

Stephen
Elwell
-Sutton

(Scot)

Brings back many happy memories. Thanks!

07.04.06

James
Ellaway

(Aus)

Up to the top?

I started caving at OFD when I lived in Swansea, back in 1994-95, although I wasn't there long enough to become a member of SWCC. What a great place. And what fantastic memories I have of thundering underground floods, and emerging at night from the top entrance to see the lights twinkling in the valley below - awesome! It's great to see the guided tour of the caves, and the photos are excellent. I'm feeling rather homesick now!

07.04.06

Ildi

(Hungary)

It is a superb website of a fantastic place in a wonderful country. I hope to visit Cymru again.

04.04.06

Sam
Nielsen

(USA)

very good map

03.04.06

Amber

(USA)

this is an awsome web site.

03.04.06

Graham
Nevett

(Eng)

One of my favourite sites. Like the sound of the water too.
Well done!

02.04.06

Pete and
Ian

(Eng)

Wicked tour! great photos too

01.04.06

Mark

(Cornwall
UK)

Great way to spend my lunch hour! only wish I was fitter and younger...

27.03.06

Allissa
Hawk

(California)

This website is like off the hook man off the hook.Like I mean TOTALLY!! So I think everyone should check it out. Bye :-)

16.03.06

britany
jones

(California)

this websit is tottally cool

16.03.06

Kenneth
W Fraser

(AUS)

Too long in the tooth now to go caving except vicariously as with our virtual journey which was much enjoyed

15.03.06

Shannon

(USA)

Very cool tour!

12.03.06

Phil
Sperry

(USA)

exploration of cave!

10.03.06

Ann
Elder

(Korea)

Your pictures are really nice! it must have been really hard to take pictures in the dark good job!...

10.03.06

Eileen

(USA)

fun thing to do in Geosystems... but then again I'm easily amused.

10.03.06

Matt
Conners

(USA)

great site

09.03.06

Alan
Solford

(Wales)

I'm a member of Brynmawr Caving Club, anyone intrested in a new dig in the Hafod area, Brynmawr. Brynmawr caving club has lack of members this comitted members at the moment so i would appreciate some interest, thank you for your time. Alan Solford  If anyone can help Alan with his dig, I will put you in touch with him.

02.03.06

Clare

(Wales)

Wow! Ive orienteered on OFD (nature reserve) quite a few times but didnt realise how big the caves are!! Never been caving but your tour (and getting to the columns) has convinced me it could be quite fun! Its a great site.  (Well done!)

02.03.06

Sarah

(Eng)

What a fantastic site, what amazing formations and columns. My partner and I took our sons to Cheddar showcave last weekend and loved it and want to see more (my partner is a big fan of the recent film Descent!).
Would love to come and visit, we live in granite country and I miss limestone landscapes. Keep up the good work.  And well done for finding The Columns!

01.03.06

Andy

(Wales)

i haven't been caving since 1990. my favourite through trip ofd2 to cwm dwr quarry. after looking at this site iam going to have to dig the wet suit out, and head for the stream way. keep up the good work.

17.02.06

lookfred

(Hungary)

This is great site!
By: www.epkar.gportal.hu

16.02.06

Brian
Jones

(Wales)

An amazing site overall. In my day it was "just" OFD1. It is wonderful to see those dark places so well illuminated. My carbide lamp could not have competed but it had something the electrics could not provide. I really must see if an old lags' trip would be possible. There must be more old SWCC members like me, retired from caving many years ago for all kinds of reasons but wanting a look at the old places and perhaps new while they are still able.  Go for it! I know what you mean about carbide lamps - a warmer light and more like "exploration".

14.02.06

Ruth

(UK)

Woohoo!! Just got to the columns... oh yes!
Great site, thankyou!  :-)

02.02.06

Dave
Holmes

(UK)

Up to the top?

The cave lived up to expectations in terms of scale and scenery, except my virtual tour covered OFD 1 and we went in via the top entrance so didn't find the Toast Rack. Still, a fascinating tour with some tricky route finding, the Judge and Shatter Pillar, Salubrious and the Chasm are a few landmarks and names that spring to mind. We weren't alone on Saturday, it was cold on the hill so probably attracted more than usual below ground. My first and definitely not the last trip to OFD.

31.01.06

Peter
Youngbaer

(USA)

Awesome virtual tour! Found this through a newspaper article citing Arthur Vause's website. You folks still use those long cable ladders? I did in France in the 1970's, but now use SRT. Cave softly. Peter NSS 16161

31.01.06

eddie

(Phil)

wow!! what a great tour!! i first thought itd in our place 'sagada'. (Philippines)  ~ I bet your caves are warmer than ours!

29.01.06

Freddy
Slavici

(Swi)

One of the best speological web-sites.
Congratulation.  Thanks !

28.01.06

Alexander Maier

(Ger)

Great site, I did the through trip with the screen, the keyboard and neoprene wrapped round my fingers..exhausting. Cheers from the Baden-Württemberg Cave Rescue Team. AlexBy the Way, how about a virtual cave rescue team ?  Try this www.wbcrt.org our cave rescue team !

27.01.06

Dave
Holmes

(UK)

I'll be taking my first trip down OFD on Saturday, so the virtual tour is a handy preview, I hope the real thing is as entertaining. I'll let you know how I get on. Dave - Cheddar Caving Club

25.01.06

Mel
Sapsford

(UK)

Hi, I noticed on your visitors book that there was a Swindon Caving Club, do you have any contact details for them?  Can't find web details at the moment, and he didn't give his e-mail, but will post here if I find out more.

23.01.06

Jon
Drury

(Wales)

it was nice to see the old girl again as i've not been to ofd for many a year. cheers guys.

15.01.06

Jim
Farrer

(Eng)

Have been in OFD 2 three times this trip was nearly as good. Just short of the beer. Briliant site keep up.[EX RRCPC MEMBER]
Here you are!

02.01.06

Mark Hobbs

(Eng)

Great site! Looking forward to a trip this coming tuesday :)
Happy christmas from everyone at Swindon caving club.  Thanks and Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year to everyone too! Peter

25.12.05

Steve

(Scot)

Superb site, bringing back fond memories of caving trips in OFD - will be back soon.

22.12.05

Dawn

(UK)
Derbys

Fond memories,circumstances do not allow caving (not at present any way)lovely site! well done and definately reccommend anyone giving caving a go!!

20.12.05

Christopher
Amabilino

(Eng)

it was a really moving tour and now i ve planned my route through the top entrance

18.12.05

Frank G.
Andrews

(USA)

Back in the mid 1950s I ran across the British Caving Manual in the California State Library,and it included information about OFD. My brother and I loved the manual and thought the name OFD was one of the "coolest" names for a cave that we had ever run across. It has remained so over the ensuing centuries. You all have a great site, and it is a pleasure to see pictures of our old friend. Thank you very much.  :-)

15.12.05

Suzanne
Mather

(USA)

What a beautifully done website. The photographs are exceptional. We have hoped to be able to travel to Wales, and your virual tour has convinced us that we have to come. Thank you for sharing your information.Sincerely, Sue Mather Florida, USA  Always knew I should work for the Tourist Board!

14.12.05

Nicky

(UK)

Had to have a go at falling off the wire traverse! very clever.  Thanks - good to see you both at the weekend!

12.12.05

John

(Wales)

Brought back many happy memories. Iexplored this cave often in the 70's but alas I cave no more.

05.12.05

Bob
Gregory

(Wales)

Up to the top?

Very clever stuff! Brilliant website engineering and splendid photographs. Thank you for a very enjoyable browse. I was a OFD1 "Leader" and on the committee of SWCC in the late 50s in the days of Peter Harvey, Bill Little etc. There was no OFDII or III in those days but many happy memories of trips, John & Sylvia Barrows, the old cottage down by the main road and beery Saturday nights at The Gwyn. Any relation to Oliver Wells? Thanks Peter (No relation!)

29.11.05

Smith

(Wales)

Ah, so you think you have me eh? We'll see about that then ....look out .....
. . . yes, you are clearly more than a legend. . . I will put up a page dedicated to stories of Smith soon!

15.11.05

Keith
Gladman

(Eng)

Fantistic trip in need of several pints!! I have not been caving for a number of years now. My fingers are getting tired so i had better get on with the trip i hope i wont require rescue!!!  For virtual rescue go to: www.wbcrt.org
and for lots of good advice for the real thing!

14.11.05

Chris
Seal

(UK)

Great site - well done. Could just about find my way around despite not having been there for a few years.

14.11.05

Lucilla
Dale

(Wales
Mon)

Geocacher davethecave provided a link to this site on the Groundspeak Forum...and here I am spending Sunday evening exploring wonderful underground places. What a brilliant idea! - I'll never be able to do this for real but thanks for providing this virtual opportunity. My pleasure!

13.11.05

dodgy
daved

(Eng)

When younger and very much slimmer (learly to mi 60's) I did a bit og wallowing in very simple passages in Mendip and Derbyshire and thoroughly enjoyed a brief wander here....I will return!

13.11.05

janetc

(UK)

A great site. Haven't been caving since 1978, but I remember enjoying it, especially jumping in an underground lake at the end (Brecon Beacons somewhere)plus discovering that I wasn't claustrophobic after all!

12.11.05

tailgate
partyer

(Can)

Excellent site it is like you are actually in the cave. I do caves in Canada and dont get a chance to go caving in Britian. So now I get to see what your caves are like

12.11.05

Lucy

(Eng)

hello,great site i have been wondering if to join the cave club it sounds rather interesting and fun hobby to do :D  Have a look at our club site! www.swcc.org.uk

11.11.05

Shaista
Rana

(Eng)

I think that this website is very good and exiting i absolutely love it. :-)

11.11.05

Joy

(Eng)

hi

11.11.05

Wookey

(UK)

This is a remarkable peice of work Peter. Congrats. (I'm here swotting up as I coming for a trip this w/e and it's been a few years since I had to find my way round top). Very handy :-)  Thanks, and did you found your way to The Columns?

11.11.05

Sarah
Hibbert

(Eng)

great place to stay although someone took my blanket - Sorry to hear that, you can mail our cottge warden to see if it's been found.

29.10.05

Pete
Wilkins

(Eng)

Up to the top?

What a brilliat web site! Has brought back so many happy memories of my caving days back in the 1960's please, how about doing LNRC soon??
Thanks, you may have to wait, its DYO next if anything, and the only time I was in Little Neath it was in high flood and I had to get a chap out of the crawls! Close shave.

28.10.05

Helen

(Wales)

ace web site love it sooo much but when are u guna do dan-yr-ogof???
Hi Hels :-) one day! Really busy at the moment, but do plan to, maybe in the spring!

27.10.05

Carrie

(British Columbia)

Cool website!! It was my first time in a real cave and I wasn't scared a bit;)

22.10.05

Julian

Wilts
(Eng)

Brilliant concept - all the images without the discomfort!! Can't wait to get back to OFD for real though. Sound effects were good too.

18.10.05

John
Childress

(USA)

Cool website.... I am still ringing the water out of my clothes from the fall in the stream... I should have clipped on the rigging line on the transverse,,,,,

12.10.05

Rob
Potter

(Eng)

Great website!!!, I want to get invovled in caving and have a possible move with my company down to the Swansea area early next year. This has inspired me too find out more. Fantstic pictures, fabulous info. You guys are so lucky to see all these natural wonders. hope I can get to see some of these for myself soon. Thanks

11.10.05

Nichole Gauthier

(USA)

Anybody know of a way to get ahold of any member in the Middle Ozarks Lower Earth Society (MOLES)? Would love ANY info at all. I'm using it to locate my father, Lyle Gauthier. I haven't seen him since I was 5 and am hoping to find a way to contact him.

06.10.05

David R Liles

(Eng)

This really does look wonderfull, thank you all, for setting it up. To what extent can a well built man and his wife travel these caves, please ? I have really enjoied this trip, thanks againe for setting it up as you have.
The entrance to OFDll is more accessible than OFDl, and more suitable for beginners. It's always a good idea to join a club when trying caving, and you are welcome to visit us on line at www.swcc.org.uk or for real in South Wales and someone will show you around the easier bits!

24.09.05

Tony
Hall

(Aus)

A long time since I enjoyed the experience of a through trip for OFD 1 to OFD 2. Excellent website. Well done. Tony

22.09.05

Graham
Hart

PCG
(UK)

Cracking site brought back happy memories of OFD2 and the Westminster

20.09.05

Zhivko
Petrov

(Bulgaria)

Dear friends, BRAVO! This is really good web site whiht bautiful photos. Caving or die!! :-)
www.helictit.org  Yours is good too my friend - I like the gas mask!

17.09.05

root

(Eng)

I liked the tours very much, thanks for all the effort. Someone posted the link on darkplaces.co.uk...

16.09.05

Jeff
Boisvert

(USA)

this is the best caving site that i have ever come across.. good job..it is like a game ..but your photos are great ..keep up the good work.  Thanks!

16.09.05

Eddie
Florer

(Eng)

As a lapsed caver,I was VERY impressed with your presentation.W

03.09.05

Sue

(Wales)

Great way to spend a lunch hour, I look forward to tomorrow's tour. :-)

01.09.05

Scotty

(Eng)

Some very, very good photography and a really nicely laid out virtual tour - I'm impressed! :)

31.08.05

Tom
Wilby

(UK)

Excellent even more fun than when I did it for real in 1974 with others from Swansea University

27.08.05

Jack
Tilsley

CICC
(BC CAN)

Hey great site . Pics look great . We mudsuckers here on Vancouver Island have fantastic caves also so if you all happen to get to this part of the globe look us up and we will share some gettin down n dirty with ya . Cheers Jack Tilsley (cicc) Central Island Caving Club

23.08.05

Andrew

(Eng)


Up to the top?

What a brilliant website. I really enjoyed OFD1 last weekend. Initially went down the tube (crawl) on the right at the start into a squeeze finally with nice curtain formations (which are sadly broken in palces) then back to the main streamway on to Bolder Chamber. It started to go into flood when we where in Bolder Chamber and hence had to do the Emergency exit route via the chain then round back down to the toast rack... awesome trip and website. Must do the real thing again soon !

19.08.05

Alan
Jackson

(UK)

What a great VIRTUAL tour. In the 1970s I spent many happy hours with Gary Jones, Pete Hall, Haden Rhys,and many more in OFD 2. Gary and I were the first into the upper oxbow series extention. Although we did find a single boot print on a ledge. Does anyone have any info regarding who might have been there before us ?

18.08.05

Karen

(Wales)

What a fab site! The virtual tour is excellent. Never made it down OFD when I was working down the road, but ONE DAY!!!

17.08.05

Suzanne
McGann

(USA)

Thanks for a wonderful adventure. I never could have experienced it without you. Terrific web sight. Sue McGann Texas

16.08.05

Steve
Nash

(UK)

What an amazing record - a real labour of love, obviously.

15.08.05

Judy
Soffe

(Eng)

My virginal virtual trip into OFD. Well worth a look.
Have done a few caves but nothing that looks like this one.
Cheers for the dry introduction. It was much warmer as well.

12.08.05

Anthony
Rands

(Eng)

What's the point of those silly things following you around whilst browsing the comments section. Very stupid and annoying. GET RID OF THEM. Everyone is usually so complimentary that it helps the balance to have a complaint now and then. - Love to comply, but I like them!

06.08.05

Anthony
Rands

(Eng)

 

Up to the top?

What a great site! Used to cave here regularly in mid 70's went to coloumns many times, before gate arrived. Longest time in the system I recall was 14 hours doing the round trip and various excursions.
Took quite a few Scout Groups around also. I hope the "facilities" have not grown too grand from my time, certainly could not have been more basic!. As I write I have a SWCC Penwyllt 1977 mug on my table and a brick in my garden from the old miners cottages opposite the Swcc buildings that I presume are now gone. You have stirred my enthusiam for the old cave I may have to visit. Thanks

06.08.05

Noel Christopher

(UK)

As one who in the past has spent many hours in OFD this virtual tour is fantastic - well done.- Noel

27.07.05

Mikhail

(Can)

Really interesting. Very impressive even for virtual tour. Good job.

27.07.05

Teri and
Ray

(Britain)

Blimey, it looks scary to me (Teri, but im a girl and Ray thinks its ok but he's done better!)

19.07.05

John
Bolt

(S Wales)

I visited OFD2 in the summer of 1970 in the company of a friend from the Osbourne Hotel, Rotherslade, who was part of the SWCC Rescue Squad (Name unfortunately has faded with the passing of years). We entered at the top entrance and scrambled down the boulder pile to the passage with the crystal pools and the straddle traverse, then chimneyed down to the area where the Judge and the Trident are. On return up I couldn't get through the boulder pile as I wasn't fit enough to pull myself through - I thought I was reasonably fit till then. We exited via another route and I was stiff for 4 days, but absolutely thrilled with the experiance. Being a keen photographer, I fancied one of those ammunition baxes one of the team had - waterproof and strong. When I returned to S Yemen where I worked for BP, I went to Sheik Othman market to buy a box. The stall holder said it's only 48/- (£2-40p) a lot of money in those days; I was expecting 5/- (25p). When I said it was expensive he said "But Sahib it's full" and it was; 500 rounds of 303 live ammunition. I couldn't do the deal as owning ammunition was a right no-no even in the Yemen for a foreigner. Still I have such happy memories of OFD2 and thanks to all who made the trip possible.

19.07.05

Dody

(USA)

Great, you took me to a place I could never go on my own. The wonders of nature. Thanks

17.07.05

Julie

(UK)

absolutely brilliant tour. cant wait to do it for real.

07.07.05

MaryEllen
Rockwell

(USA)

Thank you so much for the wonderful tour, I am sitting here with my mouth agap, viewing the beauty of the cave and the bravry of the explores.:) M.E   Thanks MaryEllen, we just love caving, it doesn't really feel brave, well maybe a little . .

29.06.05

Chad
Roe

(USA)

Hello all, I just started a caving Club here in the states and wanted everyone to know about it. It is called "The Kaving Krew" and our website can be found at the following URL: http://cave.offroadextremes.com . Please take the time to check it out and let me know what you think. - Chad

16.06.05

cat

(UK)

ive not been caving - and therefore found the virtual tour v insiteful - like the rocks :o) the bats scared me a bit :O) good site - thanks! but there aren't any bats . .

15.06.05

Tony
Rich

(Eng)

Always a great stress reliever; caving without the discomfort!

15.06.05

Matt
Saltzer

(USA)

This cave is beautiful. The passages are much larger than the cave I used for a similar tour/educational experience for the web. Feel free to check it out at www.yorkgrotto.org

14.06.05

Maria

(Eng)

good cave

08.06.05

Robert

(Ger)

Great! Congratulations for this page!

05.06.05

Dean Ruddick

(Fr)

Its a great tour the reseau underground is just like a french cheese i do my caving here in france (ardeche causse mejean etc ) we use a lot of rope!!! i really enjoyed the tour and the comments .great site!!!

02.06.05

Ashley

(USA)

I really had a lot of fun!!!

24.05.05

Emma
Downs

(Eng)

I was the 198 to get to Smith's Armory. It was very good. My grandad was the caver called John Oz. Well done Emma ~ have you managed to find The Columns?

21.05.05

John Oz

Back after 30m years. Well done on a good effort.

21.05.05

Duncan

(Eng)

Excellent web site, I was in OFD last weekend and it's great to be able to trace my foot steps!

17.05.05

Betinya
Smith

(Aus)

Well, it was alright, the stalagtights were quite cool. And i enjoyed looking at the crevices and things. I have never seen anything like this before and I think it gives a good idea of what the caves are like to those who are TOO AFRAID (Jean and Kim) to go caving. I enjoy cavong myself. Thanks Bet!

16.05.05

Hannah
Bell

(Eng)

Having completed a through trip from OFD2 to Cwm Dwr with Sue M. yesterday i just had to take the virtual tour to show my work colleagues why i was so achy today! Excellent trip yesterday and the virtual tour has me wanting to do more down such an amazing cave!

16.05.05

Leti

(UK)

Nice virtual tour, really want to do trip and try route find for real

16.05.05

Caroline

(UK)

Fantastic! I only fell down 1 hole!!! Can't wait to get there and do it for real-caving-not falling.

13.05.05

Izzy

(UK)

Yes very interesting.

11.05.05

Poppy

(UK)

It was very interesting and educational. It was fascinating and very educational. It made geography much easier!

11.05.05

Richard
Watson

(NI)

Hi, I work at Marble Arch Caves one of Europe's leading tourist caves and have been caving for a long time. I am very impressed with the virtual tour - so much so that I have recommended it to colleagues all over Europe in the UNESCO European Geoparks Network.  Thanks! Wow!

07.05.05

Marion

Kent
(UK)

Wow, I love the new bits that have been added. Really fantastic work!!! Keep up the good work.

05.05.05

Dick
Ellis

(UK)

Well done Peter a really great website.Have done the through trip a number of times in the eighties but large areas of the cave were unknown to me.Very enjoyable will visit again.

27.04.05

Nancy
Vickers -
Tier

(USA)

I am reading about Ddu and I just wanted to thank you for furthering my insites .

26.04.05

Tom
Butterwirth

(USA)

Thanks for this great site.. The work you put into this project really shows!! I am lucky enough to live in Pendleton county, West Virginia and have done most of the caves in the county and now I want to do yours too thanks for the tour .... Tom
Thanks Tom, you're welcome anytime - are there any links to caves in your area?

25.04.05

Ruth
Evans

(Wales)

 

Up to the top?

I did the loop through OFD1 yesterday (streamway-escape route) for real! My first real caving trip, it was hard work, with plenty of bumps and bruises (including two black eyes) but great fun. Must learn to hold on tighter when going down from Pi Chamber to the Elephant's Posterior! Thanks to Martin and Gareth, my very patient mentors. PS Excellent website, much more comfortable than the real thing...

17.04.05

Derek

(USA)

Love the virtual tour. Really gives one a feel for the cave. I was fortunate enough to do some caving under Mendip whilst living in Cheltenham. Currently an NSS and grotto member here in the states. Would love to get back to UK though and do some caving under Wales.

08.03.05

Ralph

(UK)

Was it mickey mouse or a pig on a stick? Nice one pete, fantastic weekend mate! Great website!! Hope to see you down there again soon:) WOW FACTOR TEN!!! My pleasure!

29.03.05

Luka

WV
(USA)

(No message)

23.03.05

Helen
Brooke

(Eng)

Ah at last! i got to the colums it's only taken me like 2months! well i have to admitt it was worth it the phots are ace!!! i now want to see them for real so much more! the whole thing is so good and it gives me somthing to do during collage when i'm board and far far away from the really thing! i think Dan-yr-ogof should be next!! i am a total enthiusiastic victim! thanks pete see you soon hell

22.03.05

Corinne

(Eng)

This brought back so many memories as I went into this cave....a complete novice, on a teachers caving weekend from Kilvrough Manor , Gower. not bad for a music teacher!! I loved every minute of it then although it took weeks for my knees to recover. My daughter had just been down OFD on a caving day from Kilvrough which prompted me to look for anything on the net about it. Thanks x

20.03.05

Chris
Eley

(Eng)

Magnificent, better than the real thing! (in that your splendid photos
show much more than my light did... I look forward to be able to visit some of the smaller, but still pretty bits such as Mini Columns and Speedy Caver- I hope you can find time (and helpers ;^) to add some of these. Don't try to do the whole Labyrinth... Mini Cols are on the list . .

14.03.05

Stuart
Marlatt

(USA)

Brilliant - wonderfully done. I actually was playing with doing something similar for some of our Colorado caves, but haven't gotten to it. You've set a very high bar.

11.03.05

Grzegorz

(Poland)

I'd like to present interior of cave building 3 - D model using special photogrametry software and photos taken with digital camera.
I need information whether anybody has tried do it. Maybe similar models exist yet??????? Thanks for help stukpuk4@interia.pl

11.03.05

Michael
Devlin

(Can)

This is awesome! I love the way you've put this together....terrific work, obviously a labour of love. Happy caving from central Ontario (home of the Warsaw caves....small but fun).  Thanks! Glad you guys can spell 'labour'!

09.03.05

James
Slade

(Eng)

Amazing idea, good for explaining what newbies will be letting themselves in for. Has also given me some inspiration for future trips.

02.03.05

sophie and
jacky

(Eng)

It's a brilliant virtual tour - We'll show it to our friends!!!!
We haven't finished it yet, but it's great.... And much better than doing Art homework!! Which is what I should be doing...  :-) Glad you like it! Maybe some of the rock shapes can BE your art homework?

01.03.05

Mark

(Wales)

enjoyed the virtual ofd 1 round trip at least you dont have to walk back to Penwyllt ! Mark Cwmbran CC

21.02.05

James Grzech

(USA)

An absolutely brilliant website! I know it took alot of work, but well done! Thanks and have a great day!

21.02.05

Chris
Fox

(UK)

Brings back good memories - anyway back to my dig in Goyden!
Well done a high quality interesting virtual tour that sets the standard for the rest of us to attain.

19.02.05

Carolyn

(Eng)

wow - looks wonderful!

17.02.05

Arthur
Price

(Eng)

Going through your wonderful website was far more comfortable than the long days I spent in Ffynon-ddu in 1948 assisting E.A. Glennie with his Geological Survey. Regards to Peter harvey-good to know he is still active.

16.02.05

Brian
Jones

(Wales)

Just found your site. V impressed. I was in SWCC with Bill Little,
Lewis Railton, Clive Jones. Must visit OFD one more time.

11.02.05

Chris
Brookes

(UK)

Fantastic site - thanks for a cracking look around OFD. I'm up to go in there for real for the first time in a couple of weekends time - so this has been great and I'm looking forward to spotting the virtual bits for real !
Thanks Again !

09.02.05

Jennifer
Fisher

(Can)

No doubt you have been told many times how wonderful the site is - I must have spent the last two hours there - and the columns are truly beautiful.
I used to cave and fondly recall my very first - Sunset Pot in Yorkshire - 30 years ago. I have just returned from Mexico and visited some cenotes - but you have rekindled my love of holes in the ground - or in Canada - holes above ground. I just registered with SWCC - looking for an old friend fom University Days.  :-) Thanks Jennifer, you made my day!

07.02.05

Geoff Simmons

(UK)

Fantastic. I'll never have to bother going real caving again.

05.02.05

Rita and
Les

(UK)

Really great virtual tour.Wish we were young enough to go. We're sending my brother, Graham Candy instead. Been caving since he was a lad. Keep him off the scrumpy!!.

28.01.05

Steve
Birch

(Scot)

Excellent website and virtual tour of the caves. Has been a few years now since I was caving in South Wales and look forward to getting back into some big cave (presently exploring much smaller, but sporting caves in Skye where I live!). Great site.

19.01.05

Tony
Baker

(Eng)

Well done Peter, it's great fun. Shame you couldn't find any better-looking models than Martin Hoff...

12.01.05

John
Sevenair

(USA)

Great concept, well executed, beautiful photos. Congratulations!

07.01.05

Peter
Devlin

(UK)

Excellent website. Getting lost and going round in virtual circles was more fun than being lost and wet in a real cave. The virtual tour is a great idea. Well done.

07.01.05

Mike
Cato

(USA)

 

Up to the top?

Great tour! Hey, I was wondering if any of you folks know an "Americanized" caver friend of mine named Tony Iles who's originally from Wales. He's been here in the U.S. for at least 25 or 30 years. He claims he did some exploring early on in Dan-yr-Ogof. I think he's about 65 and I'm sure his old heart would get a thrill if I could pass on some news from old friends. Cave on!  I'll mention this in our club circular!
. . . a few days later:
Tony Illes was a founder member of the Gloucester Speleological Society in 1956 and was very much involved with the early caving within the Forest of Dean with people like Paul Hayward and Dave "Sparkie" Parker before moving to the USA. He has been back to the UK a few times over the years since moving and always gets in touch with GSS members when he is over here. Quite happy for you to let the chap in the USA know we know Tony.
Best regards Paul Taylor Gloucester Speleological Society. . . . .
. . . and later:
Thanks all, I like to gig Tony every now and then about him being a part of ancient history. Since I was born in '58, that GSS information will work nicely. He's a great guy and we've done many caves together. That 65 year old man puts this 47 year old to shame...plus he fits in smaller leads than I do. And he does it all on just a couple of pieces of hard candy! Thanks again, Mike Cato

06.01.05

Mike
Booth

(Wales)

It's been a long time since I was a member of the S.W.C.C and heart related problems mean that I can no longer cave, so a virtual trip is the next best thing, many thanks for a great trip I would also like to say hello to Clive Jones if he is still about (yes he is). ATB mike.

04.01.05

Rob
Hughes

(Wales)

well done really enjoyed the trip (its been a long time since iv been in there!!!) the site was well worth the visit I'LL BE BACK

02.01.05

Buckett

(UK)

 

Up to the top?

WOW! Caved in this system 30years ago through the seventies. Great to be reminded of all the good times. Had a quick look over Christmas and got blown away by the picts. Put on a pair of old smelly wet socks, to remind me of the damp, grabbed a pint of beer and logged on for a trip. Had a quick trip up to Smith's Armoury and then into the Columns, no trouble with the key. There is a route to the Columns that avoids the gate, but has a 18ft pitch into Coloumn Chamber, or is this gated now. No, it's not used any more - I went that way the first time.
Great to see all that lovley red tape and string protecting the formations, I and my caving buddie Bassett laid all of it.
I am going to get together with Bassett, put on the old wet suits, fill the ammo box with mars bars and do the through trips. I will let you know how we get on. Is the pom-pom still there, now that is a formation!! Yes
Thanks again for the trip. P.S. Lets have Poached Egg climb, I missed falling down it. It's on the list!
Buckett.

 

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