Discover geocaching, a fantastic way to get the whole family outdoors.
What is it? How do you get started? Where can you go? We’ve got you covered!
If treasure hunts and walks in the British countryside sound like the kind of activities that you and your family could get into then it’s time to seriously consider taking up geocaching, one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the UK today. All children love going on a treasure hunt, even if it’s just a small one at home, and if you’re looking for a new way to get them out into the countryside then this is certainly the way to do it.
Geocaching is a bit like a modern treasure hunt and is growing in popularity with both children and adults in rural and urban areas around the United Kingdom. Think of it as a treasure hunt with a modern technological twist if you will!
Here at GO Outdoors we’re massive fans of geocaching and the sense of community that you can feel by taking part. Anything that gets people out into the countryside to see the best that Britain has to offer, and that has an added element of fun on top of that, ticks all of our boxes and the GO Outdoors Guide to Geocaching in the UK has been designed to help and encourage as many others as possible to get involved in this fantastic pastime.
Quick Links
What is Geocaching
What Equipment do i Need for Geocaching?
Where to go Geocaching
– Geocaching in Wales
– Geocaching in Scotland
– Geocaching in North England
– Geocaching in North West England
– Geocaching in the East Midlands
– Geocaching in the West Midlands
– Geocaching in East Anglia
– Geocaching in South England
– Geocaching in South West England
– Geocaching in South East England
What is Geocaching?
We’ve explained what geocaching is in our previous guides, and of course the Geocaching Association of Great Britain is a great place to find out more about geocaching. If you’ve not taken the time to read them just yet or if you’re new to the GO Outdoors site we’ll give you a quick recap.
Geocaching is an advanced form of treasure hunting and orienteering using GPS coordinates to help you find a series of ‘caches’ located in areas all over the United Kingdom. The main difference between treasure hunts as we know them and geocaching is that when you do manage to locate one of these special packages, you must replace whatever you take.
These special caches are often containers filled with small items and a notebook where you can leave your details to show that you’ve found it, along with what you have either taken as your ‘prize’ or what you’ve left for the next group to locate.
The very first geocache was placed in 2000, once the US military had invented GPS as we know it today. They wanted it to locate missing people using handheld equipment and coordinates and did this using satellites, and once this was deemed successful and accurate the President at the time, Bill Clinton, made GPS technology available to the masses and this led to the very first geocache being placed in Oregon in the United States.
The very first geocache was placed in 2000 in order to test the US military’s ability to locate missing people using handheld GPS navigation equipment and coordinates. The package contained books, DVDs, CDs, a can of beans (which is scheduled to arrive in Aberdeen in 2019 as part of the Geocaching World Tour) and a log book, but the shape and size of each container can vary.
Today geocaching in the UK is growing and growing in popularity as families and groups look to get involved in this family-friendly activity making it one of the most popular family activities in the UK. It is the perfect opportunity for those spending time on family camping trips to experience the British wilderness and countryside, with the caches located everywhere from dense woodland to tree stumps, road signs and bridges.
There are millions of individual geocaches located around the world with thousands placed around the UK in everywhere from remote villages in the countryside to town centres and National Parks. You don’t have to go on a long-distance camping trip as many caches are quite possibly located in areas that you know well – you just didn’t realise!
To find out where geocaches are, sign up for a free account at geocaching.com and download the app to your smartphone or you can visit Opencache.uk or Terracaching.com where you’ll also find an extensive list of caches in each area around the UK.
Here you’ll be able to identify where all of the caches are in your local area as well as being able to establish their difficulty in relation to how well it is hidden and the type of terrain, and also what you’re looking for in terms of the size and shape of the container.
Then just enter your location and before long you can be heading off in search of a wide range of geocaches in your area that vary in size, shape and difficulty. Once you’ve honed your skills you can head out into the countryside with a list of coordinates on your next family camping trip.
What equipment do I need to go geocaching?
Geocaching is relatively simple and inexpensive in terms of the equipment required. In many cases participants already own a lot of the clothing and materials, and it’s only the items on the technological side that you may have to buy.
If you are interested in what equipment you need to go geocaching then here is a basic list, all of which can be bought online at GO Outdoors or from your local store:
- A free account with geocaching.com
- Handheld GPS navigation device or smartphone with GPS connectivity
- Notebook and pen
- Waterproof jacket, trousers and walking boots
- Rucksack
Where to go Geocaching in the UK
So are you ready to go geocaching? Some people choose to do it as a specific geocaching holiday, while others take the opportunity to add it to their itinerary in order to add some extra activities to their break while also exploring the local area.
As part of our geocaching guide we’ve worked with geocaching.com and a number of fantastic campsites around the UK to identify ten caches in each area. These caches have been placed by other geocachers and the National Park agencies and are just waiting to be found so be sure to use this guide when you’re deciding on where to go geocaching in the UK.
Wales is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations. From city breaks to camping out in the countryside or visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park you’re sure to find somewhere welcoming, beautiful and relaxing to spend your time away whether you’re specifically going geocaching in Wales or trying it for the first time.
Gwaun Vale Caravan Park in Pembrokeshire (SA65 9TA) is one of the most popular sites in the area, offering plenty of space for both tents and caravans. Electricity is available, as are showers and washing facilities, and there are excellent views across the countryside that’s waiting to be explored.
For more information about the site, visit http://www.gwaunvale.co.uk/. Here are some of the best geocaches for you to find, all within walking distance of the Gwaun Vale site:
Valley Walk
The cache is in a clip-lock plastic container on a lovely walk along the secluded Cwm Gwaun glacial valley. Most easily approached from Llanychaer near Fishguard, the path can be muddy underfoot so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Ferry View
The cache you’re looking for here is a small container located at ground level.
Utopian Vista
A small camouflaged clip lock box amongst some rocks at the top of Carn Ingli, a mountain that looks over Newport, across the Preseli’s and down to Fishguard. An area that is legally protected as a scheduled ancient monument so please do not disturb any of the rocks.
Strumble Scramble
This geocache is hidden near the highest point on Strumble Head in remote West Wales. Finding the cache involves scrambling over some rocks which may be slippery if wet so take care. The easiest approach is to park in the free car park (N52 00 538 W005 03 666) and follow the short path.
Scenic Marine Walk
The cache is situated on the Marine Walk in Fishguard where you’ll also find lovely views of Fishguard Harbour and Lower Town, as well as the fort on the hill. There are some inclines and steps on the walk so is not suitable for wheelchair access along the whole walk. Prams and buggies should be ok in dry conditions.
Harbour Hideaway
This really is a stunning location. Park at the viewpoint by the Millenium Flame and walk back to take in the view – when you see the benches you are really close to your prize.
Lucy’s Lookout
This is a picturesque location at the top of the steep hill between Stop and Call and the beautiful harbour village. It’s something of a hidden gem viewing spot while you take a rest from rambling, and cachers are advised to wear good walking shoes or boots and trousers.
Teddy Bear’s Picnic
The cache is a large clip-lock box on the bridleway joining two unoccupied farms, both called Ffynnone in the parish of Little Newcastle. Access is easiest from the southern end but ensure you close the gates the bridleway as there may be cattle grazing. It may be muddy underfoot so strong shoes or boots are recommended.
Tomato
This cache is hidden on the Newport public footpath path. This section of the Newport Millenium Trail can only be accessed on foot and may require crossing some stiles depending on which direction you come from.
Road to Parrog
The cache can be found off the main road to Parrog with beautiful views of Newport estuary and the “Traeth Mawr.”
With the highlands and the various lochs and glens attracting people from all over the UK – and much further afield – Scotland has plenty to offer those who love a walking holiday. The Cairngorms National Park is particularly popular with walkers, cyclists and even skiiers in the depths of winter and those who have been geocaching in Scotland before will agree that it’s one of the best places to go cache hunting.
The Glenmore Campsite in Aviemore (PH22 1QU) is one of Scotland’s leading campsites. Situated close to the town of Aviemore and complete with more than 206 pitches, toilets and showers; the pet-friendly site is the ideal location for anyone looking for a walk in the Cairngorms or geocaching in Scotland so visit http://www.campingintheforest.co.uk/scotland/aviemore/glenmore-campsite for more details.
Some of the best geocaches close to the Glenmore Campsite are:
The White Spider
A quick and fun cache for you to try and find, perfect for beginners. Verge parking is available nearby but be sure to take care on the roadside or on the cycle route if you’re caching by bike.
The Old Logging Way 6
Nearly at the end of the Old Logging Way with the cafes and campsite of Glenmore ahead – don’t just turn round and head back though as a couple more caches await to tempt you further into Glenmore Forest.
Secret Loch Cache
The cache can be approached by parking at the gates to Rothiemurchus Lodge followed by a short, flat walk of less than 1km to Loch Morlich where the cache is located at the foot of a tree.
Glenmore Visitor Centre
This is what is known as a “Cache and Dash”, and is also the start point to Tommys Trek, making it an easy one to find for anyone staying in the Glenmore area.
Velvet Noses
An easy cache at the start of the walk to beautiful Green Lochan placed with the kind permission of the Reindeer Centre. After finding the cache, you can keep following the track, walking uphill for about 45 minutes to reach the Loch.
The Old Logging Way 3 – Duck!
Our best advice when looking for this particular Cache is to keep your head down – you’ll soon understand why! A part of the picturesque walk known as The Old Logging Way, where you’ll find a number of other Caches so why not make a day of it?
Tommy’s Trek
A stiff hike to the summit of Meall a Bhuachaille meaning that walking boots and sensible clothing are vital for this ascent. Walk up to the visitor centre and round the left side of the building. A path climbs steeply uphill signed with a blue and orange marker post going uphill through pine woods and a junction where you turn left. Once at the summit, you can either come back the way you climbed or follow the trail down towards Ryvoan in an 8-mile circuit.
Glenmore Gambol – Frustration in the Forest
Park in Glenmore and follow the track up towards Glenmore Lodge toward An Lochan Uaine. You’ll need to leave the trail and head a short way into the forest in order to locate the Cache so take good walking boots for support. Its location is well hidden so be sure to look carefully.
Lauren’s Lair
A pleasant walk through the forest with a Cache intended for kids at the end making this a great item for first timers to look for. The walk features lots of old pines, silver birches and some impressive juniper bushes and the Cache itself is well hidden in a camouflaged can.
Old Forest
The cache is located within Rosiemurchus Forest, just a short distance from the path to the Lairig Ghru. Lovely short walk with some uneven ground but it’s not terribly difficult terrain. The Cache itself is located inside a plastic box in a clearing.
Geocaching in the North of England: The Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales attract thousands of visitors every year and the rolling countryside provides a wealth of amazing photo opportunities. With picturesque scenery and beautiful rural villages blended with the historic and iconic towns and cities around the county, Yorkshire presents something of a playground for campers and those going geocaching in the North of England.
When it comes to geocaching in Northern England there’s not many places better than the Yorkshire Dales National Park, (BD23 5LB). Wherever you choose to stay from a quaint bed and breakfast to a camping and caravanning site in the country, you’re never too far away from hundreds of geocaches waiting to be discovered, just visit http://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/visit-the-dales/get-outdoors-dales/geocaching to see for yourself!
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best geocaches in the Yorkshire Dales for you to try and find:
Grassington Ramble
A multi-cache location making for the perfect all-day activity with the family. The co-ordinates for the actual geocache are N 54° A B . C D E , W 00 F ° G H . I J K. Your task is to complete the co-ordinates for the Geocache by taking a walk of approximately 2½ miles around the town of Grassington. The trail starts at the south west end of the National Park car park where a gate gives access to Sedber Lane. Walk down towards the River Wharfe and cross over the bridge at the bottom to enjoying the views of Linton Falls below.
Ryan’s River Spot
Like many geocaches in the Yorkshire Dales this particular cache is located in a particularly secluded and rural part of the Park. As the name suggests it is found down by the river so the area around it can get damp and boggy during periods of poor weather. Take shoes or boots and trousers suitable for the conditions.
Tilly’s Treasure
This is part of a nice walk from Burnsall, and only a short distance from the car park in Grassington if you need to quickly tick a cache off your list. It’s a nice, flat walk by the river nonetheless.
The Hidden Village
A really easy cache for you to find so it’s ideal for beginners or those who find themselves in the area. A quick cache on a walkers cross roads.
BeeDee’s Beach View
The cache is located on the public footpath but during the months of July and August the surrounding grasses can obscure it from view and make the search more difficult. Its location is close to a number of rocks so keep your eyes peeled.
Moor Mines
Part of a five-cache series placed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and located close to the historic lead mining area that once dominated this fantastic park. There are two others in Swaledale, one in Arkengarthdale and one in Wensleydale should you wish to set yourself a challenge of locating all five.
Charlie’s World Cup Cache
This cache was placed by a football-mad young man named Charlie back in 2006 prior to the World Cup. The cache is located in the heart of the Grassington lead mining area and is best approached from either Hebden or Yarnbury; and Charlie has gone on to place a number of other caches around the Park ever since should you wish to find them all!
A Journey to Conistone Old Pasture
This one is an Earth cache that has been placed with the permission of the National Park Authority. It is prohibited to remove any rocks or plants from the area so be sure to take great care when searching.
Grimwith Reservoir
This cache is dedicated to the memory of Mark “the Cat” Thompson who founded geocacheuk.com who passed away in 2004. It’s a nice walk around the reservoir to find this geocache, covering around 1.5 miles with some deep water around so be sure to take great care. There are two routes to the cache which are both immediately obvious. The cache itself is at ground level and has been obscured so keep those eyes peeled.
Girl’s Night Out
This geocache was placed by two young girls on a family camping trip that has gone on to become a popular cache to locate. There are some great countryside views in the area and it is particularly quiet, ideal if you’re looking for a quiet country walk. There is a short walk up a steep hill.
Geocaching in the North West of England
The North West might not be the first place you think of when you think of the countryside, but it is actually home to some of Britain’s most popular rural locations. There are also two of the most popular National Parks in the area – the Peak District and the Lake District – and there are plenty of places for you to go geocaching in the North West of England too.
Plenty of people camp near the two National Parks and Derbyshire is a popular area for campers, caravanners and weekends away. The North Lees Campsite in Derbyshire (S32 1DY) is ideally placed for those after a few days in the Peaks. With space for 60 tents it’s quite a small space, meaning that tents over 5 metres will not be allowed. For more information visit the site website here: http://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/getactive/camping/camping-northlees.
Before you go geocaching in the North West of England, take a look at some of our favourites:
1 Music Mill
This cache is hidden just two minutes off the main road and part of a series of geocaches. The cache is not only hidden, but it is also obscured so you’ll need to really work to find it.
Bridge Over Troubled Water
Located in a secluded spot that is part of a fantastic country walk. The cache is next to a good old babbling brook so keep children close by – but feel free to go for a paddle to celebrate finding it!
Cogger’s Lane
Part of a series of caches that you can tick off your list. Located in a hard-to-reach area, the cache is close to the road so make sure that you keep one eye on traffic while trying to find it. If you’ve been through the area by car before you’ve probably already seen it, that’s all we’ll say!
The Flying Mile
This area is known locally as The Flying Mile where people used to test their cars, there is also a cycle track or you can stay clear of the road by taking a more scenic walk along the river. The cache itself is in a layby and you can either drive straight to it to tick it off your list, or make it part of a long and picturesque walk.
Horcrux Hunt – Slytherin’s Locket
Forming a part of the Harry Potter Horcrux Hunt, this is the third in the series. The other parts are situated in other areas of the country and you’ll need their numbers to complete a phone number where you can then say you’ve done it. It is located off road and close to a stile so you’ll need sturdy footwear.
You’re Nicked!
Take a two-mile walk to this cache and enjoy some of the finest views around on the way there. There are sheep in the local area so keep dogs on a lead at all times, and be ready to look low to find the obscured cache.
Surprise!
Don’t forget that you’re looking for a cache while you’re walking in a spectacular part of the Peak District. There are great views and some rocks to climb over, but make sure that you look near your feet while clambering as you may see a surprise!
News and Views
The clue here is in the name of the cache. It is located around 10 to 15 minutes away from the nearest car park so it’s not a long walk but you can make it into one if you wish. It is stored inside a clear plastic box.
Weir Is It?
You’ll need wellies or waterproof boots when looking for this cache but if you’ve gone through the river and through a gate, you’ve already gone too far. There are stepping stones to use to cross but they can get slippery so take care.
A Hole in One
A walker-friendly route to a cache with plenty of great views along the way. There are sheep in the local area so keep dogs on a lead at all times, but the majority of the walk is easy – until the final dash for the cache.
Geocaching in the East Midlands
There are plenty of vast green spaces and beautiful country areas for you to explore in the Midlands. The area is widely regarded as the nation’s most rural section with rolling fields, rivers and more all surrounded by some of the UK’s largest towns and cities. As such geocaching in the Midlands is growing in popularity with many local residents and tourists placing their own caches in recent years.
Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire is one of the leading locations among walkers and campers with families able to come from far and wide to this central location (S80 3AZ). The area is well known for geocaching and many are within close proximity.
If you’re thinking of going geocaching in the Midlands on your next trip away, have a read up on some of our favourite caches:
Green Lane
A small container with room for swaps so be sure to leave something in its place if you do choose to remove the cache. You’re looking for a small, clear container at ground level.
Thorney Hill
This cache is situated within the Clumber Park so you’ll need to go for a walk. Parking is available nearby with around a 15-minute trek to the cache which is handily located at head height!
Deer Lay
Deer Lay is a small, raised woodland with a number of infant trees so take care as you walk through. Parking is available nearby but the cache itself is off the road and amongst the trees.
White Pheasant
White Pheasant is a small section of woodland in the Clumber Park, so be sure to have a map with you to locate the area initially. Having found the right spot you then need to look down to locate the cache itself. There is a main road in the area so take care when crossing or walking along it.
Oh Christmas Tree
Christmas Trees always stand out from the crowd – even in a wood. Park the car and take a walk into Clumber Park and remember where presents are placed on Christmas morning!
Old Wood
This cache is hidden away amongst the trees and a fallen log, and is accessible either on foot or by bike if you’re having a family ride through the trees.
Heron Hill
The mixed woodland makes this area particularly friendly on the eye and it forms part of the border cycle path that surrounds the Park. This cache is at ground level underneath a unique and horizontally-growing tree.
Manton Pit Wood #1
Part of a local series of caches and easy to find from the nearest car park. It is only a small cache but be sure to follow the signs around you closely (and yes, that is a clue!)
Manton Pit Wood #2
This walk has recently been opened up to the public and forms part of a local series. If you’re looking to do them all in order, this cache is up a hill along the main path but be sure to keep an eye on what lines the route…
Manton Pit Wood #3
If you’re ticking off this series of caches and have already got the first two, keep going along the same road and up the hill. The cache is located off the path itself and you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled.
Geocaching in the West Midlands
The West Midlands offers walkers and geocachers a wealth of different places to get away from the hustle and bustle. From National Trust parks to open spaces in the heart of cities like Birmingham, you have the chance to see plenty of lush green spaces all within a few minutes of the town and city centres.
Newark Park in Gloucestershire is one of the largest and most picturesque of these spaces and is owned by the National Trust. With plenty for the whole family to see and do here it’s easy to lose yourselves for a few hours and even easier for you to plan a strategy to locate a number of beginner and advanced geocaches!
If you’re thinking of going to the park anytime soon, take a look at some of our favourite geocaches:
Ozelworth Stocks
The area, as the name suggests, used to have its own stocks. Today it is part of a popular walking route in the countryside. You’re not looking in the stocks themselves, but you’re looking very nearby and close to the wall.
Spike’s Treasure Chest
This cache has been camouflaged to blend in with the grasses, leaves and trees around the garden of Newark Park. The weather vane, named ‘Spike the Dragon’ has stood looking over the garden for many years and he’ll be watching as you try to locate his treasure chest. Just be sure to put it back afterwards or he’ll get angry!
Cotswold View
With fantastic Cotswold views this cache is one of the most popular in the region. There is a nice seat where you can take it all in, but be sure to survey the area in great detail if you do, you may just find the cache is closer than you think.
Timber Fell
An easy cache to reach for adults and older children, but not so easy for those unstable on their feet or in wheelchairs. There are a number of kissing gates to get through along with uneven ground to cross, but the cache is a small box in a blue bag located along the Cotswold Way footpath.
Take a Knapp
The people who placed this cache have provided a cryptic clue to help you locate it, rather than any instructions. If you were walking or Driving up Synwell Lane and felt tired, Which road would you take? And once you turn into that road Think of _ _ _ Jolly _ _ _ _ _ Giant!
Tresham Jubilee Garden
This cache is located in a garden commemorating the Queen’s jubilee in 2002. The area can get muddy in the winter and during spells of wet weather so go prepared. The garden isn’t the largest but you’ll still need to do some searching to located the prize.
Bear’s Street
This location was named after a prize-winning dog who loved to go for a walk down this picturesque lane. Here you’re looking for a magnetic cache, so bear that in mind (see what we did there), and keep an eye on the traffic.
A Lone Soldier
This cache is in a popular area for walkers making it the ideal excuse to go for a walk or to go hunting for caches. With beautiful views and rolling fields all around, you’re looking for a ground-level cache hidden under a fallen soldier, if you catch our drift?
Windmill Lane
A small container hidden close to the village of Kingscote. The cache is not hidden in the old and crumbling wall so searchers have been asked not to disturb the brickwork, but you will need to go digging.
East Anglia is another of the UK’s leading holiday destinations. Whether it’s a family staycation involving a trip on the Norfolk Broads or a city break, perhaps just a few days at the coast, there is always plenty to see and do.
One of the most popular and accessible options is geocaching, thanks mostly to the nature of the ground in East Anglia. With so much flat land in the region it allows those who usually struggle with hills and uneven surfaces to give it a go, especially around Wicken Fen in Cambridgeshire.
Before you go, why not take a look at some of our favourite geocaches in the Wicken Fen area:
1 National Trust Wicken Fen
The first cache in a series placed by the National Trust at Wicken Fen. All caches, this one included, are just off the main paths so you don’t have to disturb the parkland. This cache is easily located in perfect conditions, even for wheelchair users, except for the very last few metres of mud and/or grass.
2 National Trust Wicken Fen
The second in the National Trust series. Following on from cache number 1 you’re best finding this one if you’ve got a bike to help you get around more quickly in your pursuit. The final few metres up to the cache itself are off road so you may have to ditch your wheels for a few minutes to locate it.
4 National Trust Wicken Fen
We know we’ve skipped cache number 3 in the series, but we prefer this one – it’s more of a challenge! If you’ve got a bike with you you’ll need to take care as the route gets quite bumpy which can make life fun or more difficult depending on how you feel about mountain biking!
Ely-Wicken 5
Take cycle route number 5 from the city of Ely towards Wicken and you’ll cover around 9 miles in total, making this a good ride out too. The ride itself is predominantly tarmac with a short gravel section and you’re looking for a small plastic box.
A Bit Different
The location is a bit different but that doesn’t mean that the search isn’t worthwhile. The views here are great, as is the walk, but you may wish to wear gloves or long sleeves to protect your hands from the thorns as you search for the cache under a tree.
Ratty
The location and area are very similar to A Bit Different, but this cache is situated in another picturesque location. If you can see a bridge nearby you’re very close to your cache but be sure to cover your hands and arms to protect yourself from the thorns that obscure the prize.
Walk to Judy’s Hole
The cache is located near a former clay pit named after a local resident believed to be a witch. It’s a pleasant walk with the river on your right hand side but pay close attention to a gate and what lies around it.
Beneath the Black
Take care of pets and small children as you look for this particular cache as there is a steep slope down towards the river. You’re overlooked by houses where the owners may or may not know what you’re doing so use your best detective and stealth skills!
Hole in the Wall
A magentic cache hidden down a small country lane. You’re looking for a tube-shaped object this time which means you’ll have to look more carefully.
Quack and Splash
Everyone likes to sit and watch the ducks, and what better way to go geocaching than to sit by a duck pond surveying the area while they quack around you. You’re looking for a geocache above the ground so no need to worry about the ducks grabbing it!
Geocaching in the South of England
Whether you’re in the South of England for a few days, a long weekend or even a week-long holiday you’re guaranteed to find plenty to see and do. It’s a popular destination for staycationers looking for time on the coast or in the British countryside within a short distance of some of England’s largest cities.
The South has some of the UK’s most popular beaches and parks, including The New Forest where you’ll find Denny Wood Campsite (SO40 7AR). This fantastic site in the heart of The New Forest has around 170 grass pitches and is open between April and October each year.
If geocaching is your thing then you’ve got plenty to search for in The New Forest, and here are just a selection of our favourites:
Sidetracked (Ashurst)
A small and easy cache to locate, close to the road and railway station. A good cache for beginners or those unfamiliar with the local area to start out with.
Tree Creakers Place
Located on the edge of the New Forest close to the village of Ashurst and is best approached from the fantastically-named Happy Cheese pub. The ground is relatively flat making it ideal for beginners, walkers and cyclists.
Wave to the Train
Hidden along one of the New Forest’s most popular walks this is an easy cache to locate. The cache is hidden along the railway line in a clip-lock box. The path is known for its proximity to local wildlife including deer so keep your eyes peeled and be sure to leave them alone.
Woodland Wonder Two
A series of four caches placed with families and children in mind, but still presenting a challenge for more experienced geocachers. The cache is hidden near water making for a great countryside walk, but be sure to take care.
We Like Chocolate Busketts Too
This cache is located by a small river bridge, so be sure to take care when you get down near the river. Be sure to take your wellies with you if you’re searching in the winter. The best clue that we can give you is to look down by a fallen giant.
Woodland Wonder Three
This cache is in a clip-lock box with a green lid and is the third in a series. Wellies would be needed following a period of wet weather as you’ll need to head off the track and across a ditch, and you cannot search for this cache after dark due to Forestry Commission regulations.
Kneller’s Knot
Walk along the tree-lined Knellers Lane and keep your eyes peeled for this small cache located somewhere on the ground. This is one you may need a car or bike to locate as it is off the main road.
Ashurst Bridge Road (Mega)
A quiet and picturesque location popular with dog walkers. There is a similar cache nearby but this one is larger and – theoretically – easier to locate, there’s a challenge for you! The cache is approximately 10 metres from the road so keep young children close.
The Clearing’s Edge
Located in the popular Deerleap Enclosure, very near to the ‘New Forest Wildlife Park’ near Ashurst in the New Forest. The cache has been hidden and beginners may struggle to find it, but experienced geocachers SHOULD be fine. It is off the beaten track so be prepared to walk and look for some time.
Geocaching in the South West of England
The South West of England is a haven for British holidaymakers. The beautiful counties of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset attract people from all over the UK – and further afield – so that they can experience the fantastic countryside, coastline and picture postcard towns and villages.
Many choose to stay in holiday cottages or quaint B&Bs, but if you feel like going camping in the South West then Ocean Pitch Campsite in Devon is one to check out. With views out over Croyde Beach and with space for up to 40 pitches, Ocean Pitch is popular with couples and families, and there are showers, toilets, mobile phone charging facilities and WiFi Internet available.
Before you head off into the local area in search of geocaches, why not check out a few of our favourites to add to your list:
Chester’s Chest
You don’t need any kind of specialist equipment to find this cache and it’s a great starter for the kids. Located on the coast path near Croyde Bay you’ll need to pay close attention to the pine trees.
Living the Dream
Croyde is relatively quiet in terms of geocaches and this particular one has been placed in the centre giving you an extra incentive to have a wander round. It’s on private property but permission has been granted for you to find it but it is close to the main road so be sure to take care and keep an eye out for traffic.
Bruno’s Baggy Walk – Down by the Stream
Baggy Point is a famous headland in the area and is often busy with holidaymakers and locals meaning that you’ll need your best stealth geocaching skills to find this one without anyone noticing. Here you’re looking for a medium sized cache and you’ll have to go through a gate.
Bruno’s Baggy Walk – Pond Life
The sandstone rocks around Baggy Point are popular with tourists and climbers but to find this cache you’re not going upwards! As the name suggests you’ll be looking close to a pond and you’re looking for something magnetic.
Special View of Saunton
Saunton is one of the most picturesque parts of Devon and we had to send you in search of this cache just so you can marvel at the views if nothing else. It’s a quick cache and dash meaning it’s not difficult to locate – if you know what you’re looking for…
Not a Ruined View
Another cache in one of Devon’s most picturesque locations. Just off Saunton Sands with a number of different approaches depending on how far you fancy walking. This cache is situated close to the ruins of an old house but you’ll have to go searching – it’s been well hidden.
Sweet Dreams
Take a short walk from Braunton Main car park to find this cache and be sure to look downwards as it is below waist height. It is an unusually-shaped object so don’t be put off by whatever you find – but be sure to take care near the occasionally fast-flowing river.
Church Micro 3938 (Saunton)
St Anne’s is a beautiful little church in Saunton on the main road between Croyde and Braunton. The cache you’re looking for is in the church grounds at ground level.
Hanglider Heaven
The top of Woolacombe Down is a popular take-off point for paragliders and hangliders and this is where you’re most likely to find one of the area’s highest geocaches. Estimated to be around 430 feet above the sea level the cache is at the end of a steep climb to the top of the cliffs.
Swanpool Marsh
Swanpool Marsh is a beautiful nature reserve filled with amazing wildlife and presenting the perfect place to go for a bike ride or walk. On the way round you can stop to search for the Swanpool Marsh cache which is a large clip-top box.
Geocaching in the South East of England
With wonderful beaches and picturesque scenery the South East of England is popular among couples and families searching for the ideal UK holiday destination. Major attractions such as the White Cliffs of Dover and towns including Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury and Hastings are great for wandering around and relaxing as much as possible and – of course – geocaching.
Forest Garden Shovelstrode is the perfect place for you to stay whether you’re after a peaceful family weekend or an exciting one with friends and family. The woodland location provides a fantastic backdrop for any activity and you’re never too far away from the local market towns (East Grinstead is less than 3 miles away while Tunbridge Wells is around 12 miles away).
So, are you ready to go geocaching in the South East of England? Here are some of our favourite caches in the area:
Izzie’s Birthday Cake
A first cache placed by a young girl visiting the area. Local residents are aware of the cache’s location but as it is close to a main road you’ll have to be very careful. There is a very cryptic clue to help you locate it, that you’ll either know or you won’t – Bill and Ben.
Ashurst Wood Link No. 1
The Ashurst Wood Link is a chain of connecting walks in the countryside. This is the first section of it and this is one of the easiest of around 15 caches in the area to locate in terms of terrain and overall difficulty. You’ll be looking just off the main walking route.
Shovelstrode
The Shovelstrode woodland is a beautiful part of the area and popular with walkers, cyclists and young families exploring the great outdoors. It’s also a place where you’ll find a geocache so when you reach a junction on your walk be sure to look long and hard.
Mind Your Head
You’ll need to be wearing your wellies or some good waterproof walking boots to find this particular cache. You’re looking for a canister about 35mm in size and make sure that the kids are well supervised. Oh, and mind your head!
East Grinstead Twin Towns
Easy to locate and easy terrain to cross in order to get there, making this an ideal beginner’s cache or one for the kids to find. Look for the twin towns signpost and you won’t be too far away.
Stealth 5
You’re looking in dense woodland for this particular cache meaning that wheelchair users and those with children in buggies may struggle or find it impossible. The cache is a small plastic tub and you’ll be looking near a place to cross from one field to another.
Forest Way
The Forest Way is a Country Park following the path of an old railway. Approach the cache from the top of the bridge and find it suspended above the ground but slightly obscured.
Beeching Cut
This cache is not far from Forest Row beside the old East Grinstead to Tunbridge Wells railway line. Go down the embankment opposite an earth mound in the field to find the cache, so be sure to take good walking boots or wellies with you when you go.
Guinea Pig
This great little cache is situated close to the Queen Victoria Hospital but there’s no need to actually venture onto hotel grounds. It has been named after two former surgeons at the hospital who worked during the Second World War.
Aussie Hideaway
Situated on the High Weald Landscape Trail this cache is on part of a beautiful walk with spectacular countryside views that make the search worthwhile. To find the cache you’re looking down low and around the beautiful beech trees.
