he labyrinth of tunnels and chambers don’t really take long to get round and we went round twice.
The Grotto is situated between number 28 and number 34 Scott’s Road, Ware (off the A119 Hertford Road) near the Hertford College and 3 minutes walk from Ware Station. It is open to the public from 2-4.30pm on every Saturday and Bank Holiday from April to September. Group visits can be made by prior arrangement with the Curator, Mr Watson (Tel: 01920 464131). Admission is free but a donation of £1 per adult towards maintenance is requested.
Unfortunately, there is no access for wheelchair users.
When we turned into Scott’s Road we were confused at first as to where on earth the grotto could be as you turn into a housing estate but then as you drive up the hill you see the gate for the grotto. It nestles in a hollow between modern houses.
When you first go through the gate you can turn right to go down to the grotto or turn left up the horseshoe shaped steps to the top of the hill where there is an 18th century summerhouse, which in its day would have commanded a wonderful view over Ware. The steps down and the ground inside is a bit uneven so it is advisable to wear flat shoes.