No matter how many times you visit the Peak District, there’s always more to be discovered. With a diverse landscape ranging from wild moorland in the north to grassy dales in the south, it’s not surprising that this National Park is packed full of beauty spots and intriguing places.
Although today it’s known for its unspoilt countryside, it was once a place full of pockets of industrial activity. You can even see relics of its mining past if you know where to look.
Located a couple of miles south-west of Ashford in the Water is Magpie Mine, one of the UK’s best preserved 19th century lead mines. Hidden in the fields, there aren’t many signs to the mine and there isn't a visitor centre, but it’s a stunning location with a dark past.
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Nowadays Magpie Mine has a tranquil atmosphere where you won’t find crowds of visitors. Instead you’ll spot occasional livestock grazing, while in the spring you’ll see the ground covered in wildflowers.
Yet Magpie Mine was once a hive of activity and mining at the site dates back to the 1740s. Much of what remains of the mine dates from the 1840s, when it was taken over by the Cornish mining engineer John Taylor.
He transformed the site with new buildings and innovative equipment, even giving the mine a Cornish look by building a new engine house. But prior to this the Magpie Mine had a turbulent past.
In 1833 three miners from the neighbouring Maypitt Mine were suffocated by fumes lit by Magpie Miners, in a dispute over who had rights to the lead veins. 24 Magpie Miners were put on trial for murder, however they were all acquitted as they could not identify who was guilty.
Magpie Mine continued to be in use on and off intro the 20th century, but closed for the last time in 1954 when lead imports became cheaper. In the 1970s it was granted scheduled monument status.
Today visitors to the mine can see the well-preserved remains, which include the Cornish Engine House, the circular chimney and the square chimney. In front of the engine house is the main shaft, which is over 200m deep. There’s a metal grill covering the entrance and it's is possible to peer through it at the watery depths below.
Magpie Mine is located on public access land and can be reached by public footpaths. One of the best ways to see it is via a five mile circular walk which takes in two charming villages in the area.
Start the walk in Ashford in the Water where there’s small car park with an honesty box for donations (postcode DE45 1QG) - bear in mind it can get busy at weekends. From here it’s a two mile walk to Magpie Mine, crossing the River Wye and following the signposted routes out of the village.
After spending some time exploring the mine, you can loop up to the pretty village of Sheldon, around a mile’s walk away. It’s small but very scenic, and the Cock & Pullet pub is a great place to stop for a bite to eat. From here it’s another two miles back to Ashford in the Water. The village is around a 90 minute drive from Greater Manchester.
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