DESCRIPTION
The Client:
If you go down to the caves today, you’re in for a big surprise!
Stump Cross Caverns, a family run tourism based underground ice age wonderland in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, offer fun days out for all the family from 0-99 and beyond and engaging educational visits for Schools, Colleges and Geology students.
And they have their very own Cavewoman!
Aims & Objectives:
To rebrand Stump Cross Caverns and create a new visual brand identify which moves the caves from their previous 1970s style, to a timeless symbol reflecting the very essence of its prehistoric past, bringing it firmly in to the present.
The new visual brand identity needed to not only appeal to their broad based audience but also be engaging to their core audience, sparking imagination and wonder.
A further consideration was to create a gender neutral visual identity that could be easily adapted to brand merchandise, generating much needed funds to keep the caves open and accessible for future generations to enjoy.
The Result: Unearthing a Bold Rebrand for Stump Cross Caverns
Rebranding Stump Cross Caverns was an exciting challenge that allowed us to dig deep into the essence of this iconic Yorkshire tourist attraction. The result? A distinctive visual identity that celebrates the caverns’ prehistoric roots while connecting with modern audiences.
The Creative Concept: Bringing History to Life
The heart of the rebrand centres on the Wolverine, a prehistoric creature whose fossils reside in the main cave chamber and tunnels. Drawing inspiration from this unique feature, we crafted a visual identity that feels timeless and rooted in history:
- Eroded Typography: Carefully designed to appear worn and weathered, as if shaped by millennia within the caves.
- Illustrative Wolverine Motif: A striking representation of the caverns’ rich prehistoric heritage, tying the visual brand identity directly to its story.
A Fun Twist: Introducing “Cavewoman”
As the project neared completion, a playful twist emerged—a sub-brand for the cave owner’s vibrant alter ego, Cavewoman. To maintain synergy with the main branding, we developed an illustration in the same eroded, time-weathered style. This fun addition added personality and charm to the overall brand, helping to engage audiences on a personal level.
A Path Toward Growth
The new branding has been wholeheartedly embraced by Stump Cross Caverns and is paving the way for future opportunities, including:
- Branded Merchandise: Leveraging the new identity to generate additional revenue and support conservation efforts.
- Stronger Visitor Appeal: A cohesive and memorable brand that resonates with tourists and enhances the overall experience.
