[3] The British Speleological Association (BSA) was founded in 1935, but this was not a national governing body.

The National Caving Association (NCA) was established in 1968 as the first governing body, recognised by the Sports Council.

However, the British Cave Research Association, the successor to the BSA, continued perform some 'national body' functions after its formation in 1973.

The NCA existed until 2005 when it passed its responsibilities to the British Caving Association, which had been established the prior year.

[4][5][6] The membership of the BCA is composed of Constituent Bodies, Regional Councils, clubs and individuals.