
Magpie Mine
Explore Magpie Mine, a remarkably preserved 19th-century lead mine with a poignant history set on the Peak District moors.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for photos

Magpie Mine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Magpie Mine, a remarkably preserved 19th-century lead mine with a poignant history set on the Peak District moors.
"A fascinating place with some very good information boards. Easy walk from the parking location."

🎯 Park Smartly
Use the layby parking on the opposite side of the mine to avoid farmland and potential bull encounters.
🐕 Dogs on Lead
Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead due to livestock.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cornish Engine House
Main site
The iconic engine house stands as a testament to the mine's industrial past, offering a striking visual against the moorland.

Miner's Cage
Underground access point
A chilling reminder of the miners' descent, this metal cage evokes the harsh realities of underground work.

Informative Signage
Throughout the site
Detailed boards explain the mine's history, structures, and the tragic events that unfolded here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Magpie Mine
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Park Smartly
Use the layby parking on the opposite side of the mine to avoid farmland and potential bull encounters.
🐕 Dogs on Lead
Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead due to livestock.
📖 Read the Boards
The information boards are excellent for understanding the site's history and significance.
🌬️ Embrace the Elements
The remote moorland can be windy; dress appropriately for an atmospheric experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park Smartly
Use the layby parking on the opposite side of the mine to avoid farmland and potential bull encounters.
🐕 Dogs on Lead
Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead due to livestock.
📖 Read the Boards
The information boards are excellent for understanding the site's history and significance.
🌬️ Embrace the Elements
The remote moorland can be windy; dress appropriately for an atmospheric experience.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
The walk from the layby parking is generally easy and level, making it accessible for many.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Magpie Mine a fascinating and thought-provoking historical site, appreciating its well-preserved industrial structures and informative displays. The remote moorland setting adds to its atmospheric appeal. Some visitors have encountered challenges with navigation and livestock, but the free access and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in the Peak District's mining heritage.
"Interesting place. At first the sat nav took us to a farmer’s land to get there but the gate was guarded by a bull watching a lot of sleeping cows - so we thought better of that route.
Locals guided us to level access on the other side of the mines. It looked easy and level from there - but we had run out of time to walk it from there."
Caroline Greenwood
"Lovely little visit here only issue was the cows but they soon moved when they saw dogs. There is a good information board on the site showing you what and where things used to be."
alana leeks
"Fascinating place with some very good information boards. Easy walk from the parking location."
Julian wooldridge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Magpie Mine can be a bit of an adventure. While some GPS systems might direct you to private farmland, it's best to look for the layby parking area located on the opposite side of the mine. This offers easier and free access to the site. Be aware that livestock, including cows, may be present in the fields you cross.
Yes, there is free parking available in a large layby adjacent to the site. This is the recommended access point to avoid issues with private farmland.
Public transport options to Magpie Mine are limited. It's primarily accessed by car. Some visitors might combine it with longer hikes in the Peak District, but direct public transport to the mine itself is not readily available.
The walk from the designated layby parking to the mine is generally described as easy and level, making it accessible for most visitors.
Be cautious of your GPS directions, as they can sometimes lead to private farmland. Always aim for the designated layby parking. Also, be prepared for the possibility of encountering cows in the fields you need to cross.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Magpie Mine is open and free to visit. There are no admission fees required to explore the site.
Magpie Mine is an outdoor historical site and is generally accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the site.
The walk from the layby parking is described as easy and level, which is promising. However, the terrain around the mine itself might be uneven in places. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear.
Yes, dogs are allowed at Magpie Mine, but they must be kept on a lead at all times due to the presence of livestock.
There isn't a formal visitor center, but there are informative boards on-site that provide details about the mine's history and structures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the well-preserved 19th-century lead mine structures, including the striking Cornish Engine House and the cage used for miners' descent. Informative boards explain the site's industrial heritage and tragic past.
While the site is generally safe to explore, it is an abandoned mine. Exercise caution, stay on marked paths where possible, and be mindful of uneven terrain. The remote moorland can also be exposed to wind.
Magpie Mine was a lead mine operating for over 200 years, closing in 1958. It's known for its industrial significance and a tragic incident in 1833 where three miners from a neighboring mine were suffocated due to fires lit underground by Magpie miners.
Absolutely! Magpie Mine offers a unique and atmospheric setting for photography, with its industrial ruins and remote moorland landscape. It's a popular spot for photographers interested in industrial heritage and 'ghost buildings'.
The terrain around the mine is moorland, which can be uneven in places. While the walk from the layby is easy, exploring the mine site itself requires sturdy footwear and awareness of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cornish Engine House is a prime subject, offering a dramatic silhouette against the sky. The miners' cage and the overall atmospheric ruins of the mine are also excellent for capturing the site's industrial heritage.
Magpie Mine is ideal for industrial heritage photography, urban exploration (urbex) style shots, and capturing atmospheric, moody landscapes. The 'ghost buildings' aesthetic is particularly popular.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the old buildings. Overcast days can also enhance the moody atmosphere.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography. However, always be respectful of the site and any potential private property boundaries.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the engine house and surrounding landscape. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
🐕 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Haunting History of Magpie Mine
This history adds a layer of poignancy to the visit. As you stand amidst the well-preserved structures, you can't help but imagine the harsh conditions and the human drama that unfolded here. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the dangerous and often contentious nature of mining in the region.
The preservation efforts, partly funded by lottery grants, have ensured that the Cornish Engine House and other remnants of the mine remain standing, offering a tangible connection to this industrial heritage. It's a place that sparks reflection on the lives of those who worked and suffered here.
Exploring the Industrial Landscape
Beyond the engine house, visitors can see other remnants of the mine's operational past, including the cage used by miners to descend into the earth. These structures, set against the backdrop of the open countryside, create a unique and atmospheric scene. The site's preservation allows for an immersive experience of what life might have been like for the miners.
For those interested in industrial archaeology or simply seeking a site with a strong sense of place, Magpie Mine is a compelling destination. The combination of historical significance, architectural remnants, and its remote setting makes it a standout location for understanding the region's mining legacy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit