Magpie Lead Mine is a well-preserved disused lead mine near the village of Sheldon in Derbyshire, England. It was the last working lead mine in the Derbyshire orefield and is one of the best surviving examples in the UK of a 19th century lead mine. The mine has a fascinating history spanning more than 200 years, and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in industrial heritage or the Peak District.

History of Magpie Lead Mine

Lead mining has taken place in the Peak District for centuries, dating back to Roman times. The Shuttlebark vein of lead ore at Magpie Mine was officially opened in 1682, but the mine itself is first recorded in 1740. The mine flourished in the early 19th century, and by 1824 was one of the most profitable in Derbyshire. However, the mine's fortunes began to decline in the late 19th century, and it finally closed in 1958.

Fun Facts About Magpie Lead Mine

• Magpie Mine is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the three Maypitt miners who were suffocated by fumes from fires lit by Magpie miners in 1833.
• The mine is also said to be cursed by the widows of the Maypitt miners. It is said that the curse will be lifted when a magpie with a white tail is seen flying over the mine.
• The Cornish Engine House at Magpie Mine is one of the best preserved in the UK. It was built in 1869 and housed a powerful steam engine that was used to pump water from the mine.
• The circular chimney at Magpie Mine is also a notable feature. It was built in 1840 and is one of the tallest lead mine chimneys in the Peak District.

Less Known Facts About Magpie Lead Mine

• Magpie Lead Mine was one of the first mines in Derbyshire to use a Newcomen type pumping engine. This type of engine was very inefficient, but it was the best technology available at the time.
• The mine was also one of the first in Derbyshire to use a Cornish steam engine. Cornish steam engines were much more efficient than Newcomen engines, and they helped to make Magpie Mine one of the most profitable mines in the county.
• Magpie Lead Mine was also a pioneer in the use of explosives. Explosives were used to blast out the lead ore, and they helped to make the mining process more efficient.
• Magpie Lead Mine was a major employer in the Peak District for over 200 years. At its peak in the early 19th century, the mine employed over 1,000 people.

Visiting Magpie Lead Mine

Magpie Lead Mine is now managed by the Peak District Mines Historical Society, and is open to the public for guided tours. The tours take visitors around the mine site and into the Cornish Engine House. Visitors can also learn about the history of the mine and the lives of the miners.

Magpie Lead Mine is a fascinating and well-preserved example of a 19th century lead mine. It is a great place to visit for anyone interested in industrial heritage or the Peak District. Here is the location on Google Maps. There is roadside parking (A bit muddy but fine) and then a 5 to 10 minute walk to the mine over a couple of cattle grids.