Caves which have been closed since the 1970s due to the high risk of rock falls, were entered by emergency services after smoke was spotted coming from them at Durlston Country Park near Swanage in Dorset.
Just after 8 pm on Sunday 23rd August 2026, Swanage coastguard officers were out patrolling the coast looking for a lone kayaker when they saw smoke rising from the entrance of the old Tilly Whim caves.
Tilly Whim caves have been closed since the 1970s due to safety fears
Camp fire still smouldering
On seeing the potential danger, the coastguard requested the assistance of the fire service to deal with the incident.
Swanage Fire Station reported:
“Along with some personnel from the Swanage coastguard team, we made our way to the entrance to the caves, where we found an abandoned camp fire which was still smouldering. This was extinguished using one water filled back pack.”
The Tilly Whim caves, originally an old limestone quarry, were opened as a tourist attraction in the 1870s but closed in 1976 when it was considered too dangerous for members of the public to go in due to the risk of collapse.
The abandoned camp fire was quickly extinguised
Both the fire service and coastguard were called out
“A fire could pose a serious risk to anyone inside”
Swanage coastguard said:
“It is disappointing to see evidence of the caves being used in this way. Given the condition and structure of the caves, a fire could pose a serious risk to anyone inside – as well as to rescuers who may have to enter to assist them.
“Despite the recent rain, fires and barbecues are still not permitted – particularly within the cave network at Tilly Whim and the surrounding country park. Please stay safe, look after our coastline and help us keep these areas safe for everyone.”
The kayaker in the inflatable vessel was reminded to wear a lifejacket or bouyancy aid
Concern for the safety of the kayaker in the dark, meant both Swanage lifeboats were launched
“Some safety advice was given”
Meanwhile as it started to get dark, NCI watch keepers at Peveril Point had spotted a lone kayaker making their way across Durlston Bay, so Swanage coastguard officers went to establish the person’s intentions and to check they were safe.
Walkers in the area confirmed seeing the kayaker heading further along the coastline towards Dancing Ledge, and as the daylight was fading, with the sea conditions changing and the wind increasing, both the Swanage lifeboats were launched.
Swanage coastguard reported:
“Our coastguard team redeployed to Dancing Ledge where the kayaker was located coming ashore as the lifeboats arrived. The person was using an inflatable kayak and had limited safety equipment, so some safety advice was given.”
“Thankfully, everyone was accounted for and our coastguard team and fire service colleagues returned to their stations.”
Further information
- More on Facebook about Swanage Fire Station and Swanage Coastguard
