About the South Bristol Speleological Society

The South Bristol Speleological Society was established in 1977 by a group of cavers who wanted a club that reflected the community south of Bristol — accessible, practical, and genuinely committed to underground exploration rather than just talking about it. In the decades since, SBSS has grown steadily into one of the active Mendip caving clubs affiliated with the Council of Southern Caving Clubs (CSCC).

We've been involved in exploration, survey work, conservation efforts, and — most prominently — a long-running dig at East Twin Swallet that has been going since before many of our current members were born. That dig, now spanning multiple generations of cavers, represents everything SBSS stands for: patient, determined, community-led exploration.

One of the most practical benefits of SBSS membership is access. Through our affiliation with the CSCC and decades of relationship-building with landowners and other clubs, SBSS holds keys to or access arrangements for a wide range of Mendip cave systems.

SBSS is a club for anyone who wants to go caving. We don't have strict skill requirements for joining — our experienced members and leaders will take you underground and help you develop at whatever pace suits you. Annual membership includes BCA personal accident and third-party liability insurance, which is a requirement for leading or participating in trips to most Mendip caves.

We have kit available to borrow for those just getting started, including helmets, lights, and oversuit hire, so there's no need to buy anything before you've decided caving is for you. Most trips are arranged informally, and we operate a friendly, non-competitive environment suited to all ages and fitness levels.