Sustainability

At Wookey Hole, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on our community, the environment, and the local economy. Our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives reflect our commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and responsible tourism. Here’s how we are making a difference:

Supporting local good causes

Every year, Wookey Hole proudly supports a “Charity of the Year,” raising thousands of pounds for a local good cause. Through various fundraising activities and events, we ensure that our contributions have a meaningful impact on the lives of those in our community. In addition to our annual charity partnership, we actively collaborate with local schools, charities, and businesses to provide raffle prizes, further supporting local initiatives and raising additional funds.

Sustainable Practices

Hydroelectric Power Generation

At Wookey Hole, we are committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Wookey Hole is located on the site of a fomer paper mill, which has been powered by the River Axe flowing through the caves since the 17th century. As a result we are still able to generate a percentage of our own electricity using hydroelectric power. This not only reduces our carbon footprint but also promotes renewable energy sources.

Recycling and Reducing Waste

We are dedicated to onsite recycling and have implemented robust waste management practices to minimise our environmental impact. Our goal is to eliminate single-use plastics throughout our operations. By continuously seeking innovative solutions, we strive to reduce waste and promote a more sustainable future.

Responsible Tourism

We understand the importance of preserving the natural beauty and environment of Wookey Hole. We are open to feedback and actively listen to our visitors to find ways to reduce the negative environmental impact of tourism. Our commitment to responsible tourism ensures that we protect and enhance our surroundings for future generations to enjoy.

Preserving Natural Heritage

Public access to our world of wonder

Wookey Hole is more than a visitor attraction – it is a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognised for its remarkable caves, wildlife, geology and history. Every decision we make aims to balance adventure with conservation, helping to safeguard this fragile underground world so that its natural wonders can be enjoyed and studied for generations to come.

Protecting wildlife and natural habitats

As a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Wookey Hole is home to a rich variety of wildlife that depends on its unique cave and valley habitats. The caves provide an important refuge for horseshoe bats, which use the underground chambers for roosting and hibernation, while the surrounding countryside offers feeding grounds rich in insects. Within the cave system, the constant temperature and high humidity create ideal conditions for moths, mosquitoes and other invertebrates, while the waters of the River Axe support species such as freshwater shrimps, eels and frogs.

At Wookey Hole, we are committed to protecting these habitats and the species that rely on them. By carefully managing the caves and surrounding landscape, we help preserve biodiversity and ensure this remarkable natural environment continues to thrive for future generations. Our approach balances conservation, education and responsible tourism, allowing visitors to experience the wonder of this special place while helping to safeguard its wildlife and ecological importance.

Facilitating Exploration and Research

Wookey Hole is proud to provide access to caving groups, divers, and research teams. By facilitating their explorations, we contribute to the ongoing study and understanding of the rich history and geology of our caves. These partnerships help uncover new insights and preserve the knowledge of our natural heritage for future generations.

Community and Economic Contribution

Supporting the Local Economy

Wookey Hole plays a vital role in the local economy by attracting visitors from near and far. Our operations provide around 150 jobs for local residents, support hundreds of local suppliers, and therefore contributes to the overall economic vitality of Wells and Somerset. Our partnerships with local businesses ensure that the benefits of our success are shared within the community.

Educational and Collaborative Efforts

We believe in the power of education and collaboration. Our partnerships with local schools and charities not only support fundraising efforts but also provide educational opportunities for students to learn about the rich history and geology of this corner of Somerset. We are always exploring new ways to engage with our community and enhance our positive impact.

Our Commitment to Improvement

At Wookey Hole, we are always looking for new ways to do better. Whether through innovative sustainability practices, community engagement, or responsible tourism, we are committed to continuous improvement. Our goal is to create a lasting positive impact on our environment, our community, and our economy.

Thank you for supporting Wookey Hole and being a part of our journey towards a better future. Together, we can make a difference.