It consists of interlinked tunnels and rooms An eerie "druid" grotto around a two hour drive from Liverpool city centre is like something from a fairy tale. Located in the picturesque village of Birchover in Derbyshire, Rowtor Rocks is a unique cave complex that boasts a long history. The centuries-old Peak District landmark , also known as 'the Druid Caves,' consist of caves and tunnels, as well as carved stone staircases, rooms, thrones and altars.
In many ways, the historic site looks like something you'd expect to find in a Grimm's fairy tale. The curious grotto consists of interlinked tunnels and rooms, while in places, serpents, circles and cup symbols have been carved into the rocks. Sets of stairs, altars and thrones have also been hewn from the stone, the MEN reports.
Local village parson, the Reverend Thomas Eyre, was behind the man-made carvings and caves, which date back to the 17th century. The clergyman died in 1717 and was said to have also been a druid who practised witchcraft. Derbyshire Live previously reported how the cleric is reputed to have used the rocks for his ceremonies, as well as to entertain his friends.
Accounts say Eyre was known to sit on the seats he carved out of the rocks to write his village sermons, while overlooking the fascinating landscape. Thomas Eyre also built himself a house and chapel at the foot of Rowtor Rocks. Legend has it that he built that chapel in the hope his soul would be reprieved after being guilty of dabbling in the da.