Janet Roberts's Blog, page 14
March 13, 2014
Dockland Light Railway - London
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This is such a fun little train. It's an automated light metro system which opened in 1987 to serve the redeveloped Docklands area of London. The original design was derived from a
German light rail system intended to run through streets, which is presumably why it's so incredibly flexible, despite having a top speed of 62 mph.
Most of the stations are elevated, with access to the platforms via staircases and lifts, and occasionally escalators. From the outset the system has been fully accessible to wheelchairs, with the floor height of the cars matching those of the platform. This certainly makes it comfortable for those with pushchairs, unlike standard trains, which can have a big difference in height between the train and the platform.
I use my Oyster pre-paid ticket for my journey, just touching the pad on entry and exit, which is so convenient, and means there are an absolute minimum of staff operating these little trains.
One of the many things I love about this little train is the incredible reflections from the predominately glass-fronted buildings which you pass really close to.
In fact I could quite happily spend all day travelling around on this little train! I can well understand why over 86 million passengers used it in 2011.
This is such a fun little train. It's an automated light metro system which opened in 1987 to serve the redeveloped Docklands area of London. The original design was derived from a German light rail system intended to run through streets, which is presumably why it's so incredibly flexible, despite having a top speed of 62 mph.
Most of the stations are elevated, with access to the platforms via staircases and lifts, and occasionally escalators. From the outset the system has been fully accessible to wheelchairs, with the floor height of the cars matching those of the platform. This certainly makes it comfortable for those with pushchairs, unlike standard trains, which can have a big difference in height between the train and the platform. I use my Oyster pre-paid ticket for my journey, just touching the pad on entry and exit, which is so convenient, and means there are an absolute minimum of staff operating these little trains.
One of the many things I love about this little train is the incredible reflections from the predominately glass-fronted buildings which you pass really close to.
In fact I could quite happily spend all day travelling around on this little train! I can well understand why over 86 million passengers used it in 2011.
March 9, 2014
Turner & the Sea - Maritime Musuem - Greenwich - London
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This amazing and very special exhibition was held in the basement of this building. (Better signage would have made finding it easier!)
As expected photography was strictly forbidden and anyway the light levels were extremely low.
The paintings not only showed Joseph Mallord William Turner's incredible sea paintings but the influence of such artists as Constable and Gainsborough.
As expected the largest crowds were round 'The Fighting Temeraire' with it's incredible lighting effect and glowing colours. It was painted in 1838 and shows the 98-gun ship HMS Temeraire' being towed by a paddle-wheel steam tug towards its final berth in Rotherhithe in south-east London to be broken up for scrap. This ship was very well-known from her heroic performance at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the decision by the Admiralty to scrap her had attracted considerable press coverage.
One thing I hadn't expected was the sheer number of people in the paintings, all in the most incredible detail and busy going about their daily lives. This is 'The Fishmarket on the Sands, Hastings' painted in 1810.
This was a remarkably quiet and gentle painting, whilst most showed raging storms and drowning people, as in this depiction of the 'Wreck of a Transport Ship'. Here you can almost hear the roar of the ocean, as the great wave is about to topple over onto the poor, floundering folk in the frail boat. Even the boat with the sails looks likely to capsize at any moment, and you feel few of the unfortunate sailors are likely to survive such a powerful storm.
I thought this was an incredible exhibition and was really pleased that I'd travelled down from Nottingham especially to see it.
I have read reviews that said that the paintings should have been given more space, and their order more obvious, but this may have been explained in the accompanying auto that was available for an extra £3. Unfortunately I did not have time to take advantage of this, but anyway found the information boards and labels sufficient for my needs.
Highly recommend
This amazing and very special exhibition was held in the basement of this building. (Better signage would have made finding it easier!)As expected photography was strictly forbidden and anyway the light levels were extremely low.
The paintings not only showed Joseph Mallord William Turner's incredible sea paintings but the influence of such artists as Constable and Gainsborough.
As expected the largest crowds were round 'The Fighting Temeraire' with it's incredible lighting effect and glowing colours. It was painted in 1838 and shows the 98-gun ship HMS Temeraire' being towed by a paddle-wheel steam tug towards its final berth in Rotherhithe in south-east London to be broken up for scrap. This ship was very well-known from her heroic performance at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the decision by the Admiralty to scrap her had attracted considerable press coverage.
One thing I hadn't expected was the sheer number of people in the paintings, all in the most incredible detail and busy going about their daily lives. This is 'The Fishmarket on the Sands, Hastings' painted in 1810.This was a remarkably quiet and gentle painting, whilst most showed raging storms and drowning people, as in this depiction of the 'Wreck of a Transport Ship'. Here you can almost hear the roar of the ocean, as the great wave is about to topple over onto the poor, floundering folk in the frail boat. Even the boat with the sails looks likely to capsize at any moment, and you feel few of the unfortunate sailors are likely to survive such a powerful storm.
I thought this was an incredible exhibition and was really pleased that I'd travelled down from Nottingham especially to see it.I have read reviews that said that the paintings should have been given more space, and their order more obvious, but this may have been explained in the accompanying auto that was available for an extra £3. Unfortunately I did not have time to take advantage of this, but anyway found the information boards and labels sufficient for my needs.
Highly recommend
March 6, 2014
The Old Smithy - Beeley - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
It was years since I last visited this eatery, and found it had changed hands, with Faye Mellor taking over in August 2012.
One thing I was delighted about - they believe in promoting local businesses, and this has even extended to having hand made Derbyshire tables, and Derbyshire log burner, coffee machine, place mats and cutlery.
The menu contained both snack and main meals and the staff were really attentive, which I like. I had planned just to have a sandwich, but the full roast meal on the next table looked so tempting I just had to have that, and it was fabulous!
In warm weather sitting outside on the little patio would be nice.
The only downside to this delightful place is the parking, which is definitely tricky, particularly when there are a lot of customers. One time when the walkers clearly had the advantage!
Now I just have to find an excuse to return and have another grand meal!
It was years since I last visited this eatery, and found it had changed hands, with Faye Mellor taking over in August 2012.One thing I was delighted about - they believe in promoting local businesses, and this has even extended to having hand made Derbyshire tables, and Derbyshire log burner, coffee machine, place mats and cutlery.
The menu contained both snack and main meals and the staff were really attentive, which I like. I had planned just to have a sandwich, but the full roast meal on the next table looked so tempting I just had to have that, and it was fabulous!
In warm weather sitting outside on the little patio would be nice.
The only downside to this delightful place is the parking, which is definitely tricky, particularly when there are a lot of customers. One time when the walkers clearly had the advantage!
Now I just have to find an excuse to return and have another grand meal!
March 2, 2014
Bestwood Lodge Hotel - Nottingham
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
It's the architecture that strikes one first on seeing this amazing building. The history goes back centuries and King Edward III wrote "at his Park at Bestwood" in 1364, and royalty continued to use the area for hunting, especially when visiting nearby Nottingham Castle.
In 1683 King Charles II granted Bestwood Lodge to his illegitimate son Henry Beauclerk, the First Duke of St Albans. Henry's mother is said to be the infamous Nell Gwynn.
Under the guidance of the 10th Duke, London architect SS Teulon demolished the original house and created the present one, finishing it in 1863. It's described as domestic Gothic in style, with red brick and white stone facings. For a while Sir Frank Bowden, head of Raleigh, lived at Beswood Lodge, and later it was used by the Army during World War II. In the mid 1970's it was converted into the present Best Western Bestwood Lodge Hotel.
The striking buildings are on three sides as you enter the main doorway. The foyer was being used for bar snacks when I was there, and I had an excellent meal. I then asked if I could have a look round, never having been there before. I was very impressed that, despite being extremely busy, a member of staff immediately led me round the main rooms, which I thought very kind of her.
This is the lovely dining room, with an almost new carpet and with the most stunning views out over the garden. As the Lodge is situated at the highest point this really makes it a most attractive room.
It had struck me as I walked up to the entrance how the building on my left looked like it had an ecclesiastical use, and that turned out to be the case, and this space is now used for weddings and civil ceremonies. I thought it a really beautiful area.
It was really hard to realise that I was only 4 miles from the heart of Nottingham, sitting as it does within the 700 acres of Bestwood Country Park. Just a lovely, beautiful quiet venue away from the city's hustle and bustle and yet so easily accessible.
With all the Park still to explore I'm really looking forward to returning to this special place.
For more about me and my writing just click here
It's the architecture that strikes one first on seeing this amazing building. The history goes back centuries and King Edward III wrote "at his Park at Bestwood" in 1364, and royalty continued to use the area for hunting, especially when visiting nearby Nottingham Castle.In 1683 King Charles II granted Bestwood Lodge to his illegitimate son Henry Beauclerk, the First Duke of St Albans. Henry's mother is said to be the infamous Nell Gwynn.
Under the guidance of the 10th Duke, London architect SS Teulon demolished the original house and created the present one, finishing it in 1863. It's described as domestic Gothic in style, with red brick and white stone facings. For a while Sir Frank Bowden, head of Raleigh, lived at Beswood Lodge, and later it was used by the Army during World War II. In the mid 1970's it was converted into the present Best Western Bestwood Lodge Hotel.
The striking buildings are on three sides as you enter the main doorway. The foyer was being used for bar snacks when I was there, and I had an excellent meal. I then asked if I could have a look round, never having been there before. I was very impressed that, despite being extremely busy, a member of staff immediately led me round the main rooms, which I thought very kind of her.
This is the lovely dining room, with an almost new carpet and with the most stunning views out over the garden. As the Lodge is situated at the highest point this really makes it a most attractive room.
It had struck me as I walked up to the entrance how the building on my left looked like it had an ecclesiastical use, and that turned out to be the case, and this space is now used for weddings and civil ceremonies. I thought it a really beautiful area.
It was really hard to realise that I was only 4 miles from the heart of Nottingham, sitting as it does within the 700 acres of Bestwood Country Park. Just a lovely, beautiful quiet venue away from the city's hustle and bustle and yet so easily accessible.
With all the Park still to explore I'm really looking forward to returning to this special place.
For more about me and my writing just click here
February 20, 2014
Elvaston Castle - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
As it was years since I last visited Elvaston Castle I thought it fast time I returned. The grounds alone are extensive and include a lake, nature reserve and numerous little buildings. It was purchased by Derbyshire County Council in 1968, and two years later it became one of the first country parks in England. The only charge is for car parking, so pedestrians can enjoy this amazing place for free! Now the buildings and the gardens are registered either Grade 2 or Grade 2+ being of special architectural and historical interest.
I had already booked onto 'A Peek behind the Shutters' event when it is possible to get inside the Hall itself. These talks only happen about twice, or at the most three times a year, to no wonder they are so popular. The most interesting talk, given by one of the Rangers took place in the Gothic Hall. I hadn't quite realised that this would be the only room we would visit, but then the event did only last for half an hour, for a one pound donation!
Then it was time to walk all round the impressive lake and marvel at the numerous strange 'rock formations' which seemed to be everywhere, to the great delight of the many children who were climbing all over them! I also loved all the amazing topiary, and the parterre at the side of the house, and was amazed to learn that it had only been created in the 1960's, whereas the rest of the estate is largely the work of the 4th Earl of Harrington over 200 years ago.
What struck me during the talk was the fact that everything had been created by the Earl as an enchanting love token for his wife Maria Foote. As I have already researched and written the The Clumber Love Story and The Hardwick Love Story I could now be doing The Elvaston Love Story!
Afterwards when studying the map of the park I realised what a small area I have actually visited. Definitely a return visit is called for, but with such a lovely, interesting place that will be something to really look forward to.
As it was years since I last visited Elvaston Castle I thought it fast time I returned. The grounds alone are extensive and include a lake, nature reserve and numerous little buildings. It was purchased by Derbyshire County Council in 1968, and two years later it became one of the first country parks in England. The only charge is for car parking, so pedestrians can enjoy this amazing place for free! Now the buildings and the gardens are registered either Grade 2 or Grade 2+ being of special architectural and historical interest.
I had already booked onto 'A Peek behind the Shutters' event when it is possible to get inside the Hall itself. These talks only happen about twice, or at the most three times a year, to no wonder they are so popular. The most interesting talk, given by one of the Rangers took place in the Gothic Hall. I hadn't quite realised that this would be the only room we would visit, but then the event did only last for half an hour, for a one pound donation!
Then it was time to walk all round the impressive lake and marvel at the numerous strange 'rock formations' which seemed to be everywhere, to the great delight of the many children who were climbing all over them! I also loved all the amazing topiary, and the parterre at the side of the house, and was amazed to learn that it had only been created in the 1960's, whereas the rest of the estate is largely the work of the 4th Earl of Harrington over 200 years ago.What struck me during the talk was the fact that everything had been created by the Earl as an enchanting love token for his wife Maria Foote. As I have already researched and written the The Clumber Love Story and The Hardwick Love Story I could now be doing The Elvaston Love Story!
Afterwards when studying the map of the park I realised what a small area I have actually visited. Definitely a return visit is called for, but with such a lovely, interesting place that will be something to really look forward to.
February 15, 2014
Rufford Abbey Undercroft
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
Rufford Abbey Undercroft
Rufford Abbey is situated in the north of Nottinghamhsire and was originally a 12th century Cistercian abbey. By the middle of the 14th Century numbers had dwindled, so when King Henry VIII started to dissolve the monasteries in 1536, Rufford was one of the first to go.
Rufford is now owned by Nottinghamshire County Council, with the responsibility for the buildings falling to English Heritage. Great care has been taken to make what remains of this impressive Abbey accessible to visitors.
The medieval vaulted stone Undercroft is where the monks would have eaten. They had a spartan way of life, consisting only of prayer, work and study, and the area has been skillfully reconstructed, and I found very interesting.
Rufford Abbey is within 150 acres of grounds, and contains a large lake full of wetfowl, a Craft Centre with Gallery, and several gift shops and eating places. The only charge is car parking at week-ends.
Rufford Abbey Undercroft
Rufford Abbey is situated in the north of Nottinghamhsire and was originally a 12th century Cistercian abbey. By the middle of the 14th Century numbers had dwindled, so when King Henry VIII started to dissolve the monasteries in 1536, Rufford was one of the first to go.Rufford is now owned by Nottinghamshire County Council, with the responsibility for the buildings falling to English Heritage. Great care has been taken to make what remains of this impressive Abbey accessible to visitors.
The medieval vaulted stone Undercroft is where the monks would have eaten. They had a spartan way of life, consisting only of prayer, work and study, and the area has been skillfully reconstructed, and I found very interesting.
Rufford Abbey is within 150 acres of grounds, and contains a large lake full of wetfowl, a Craft Centre with Gallery, and several gift shops and eating places. The only charge is car parking at week-ends.
February 5, 2014
The Old Smithy - Monyash - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
This delightful little eatery is situated in the former village blacksmiths with over 250 years of history. It opened on Good Friday 1992, and I can't believe I've only just found it!
As expected, it's small and cramped - you certainly get to know your neighbours, but I really like that! They serve a surprisingly large range of food and drink, including their famous 'Smithy's Breakfast' (bacon, sausage, egg, oatcake, mushroom, toast, tomatoes and beans!!). They also serve a range of speciality teas and freshly ground coffee, served by the cup, mug, pot or even PINT - which they describe as 'perfect for the thirsty walker or cold cyclist'!
I settled for a smaller snack in the snug back room, and although the service is a little slow, it was huge meal that I thoroughly enjoyed. Further down the long table a delightful couple arrived who had been to the Smithy for breakfast, then gone on a walk through delightful Lathkill Dale. (See my previous blog) Now they thought it was time to treat themselves to desert, and somewhat to their surprise I asked if I could photograph it for my blog! How delicious it looked - pity I was too full to have some!
I always love places that support the local community, and that's certainly the case with The Old Smithy. Bakewell Pudding Shop daily supplies all the fresh rolls, cakes and panini's, whilst fresh fruit and veggies come from Tomson of Buxton. Even the ice cream is local, being from award winning Smiths Creamland Ices at nearby Clay Cross, whilst meat arrives from Redferns Farm Shop who are at Harpur Hill, Buxton. They must get through a vast number of eggs, and these are free range from Rowsley Bar near Bakewell, with coffee from Arden Coffee, a local family run coffee roasters. As if that wasn't enough even the real ale is local, being brewed at Peak Ales on the Chatsworth estate.
Their web site sums up their philosophy perfectly.
"Here at The Old Smithy we truly do cater for everyone, whether you are a small family wanting afternoon teas and cakes, a hungry walker needing a full meal, a worn out cyclist needing refreshment or simply just a group of friends wanting coffee and a chat. The Old Smithy welcomes you all'
Isn't that nice? Now I can't wait to go back, and this time I might even have a full 'Smithy's Breakfast"!
This delightful little eatery is situated in the former village blacksmiths with over 250 years of history. It opened on Good Friday 1992, and I can't believe I've only just found it!As expected, it's small and cramped - you certainly get to know your neighbours, but I really like that! They serve a surprisingly large range of food and drink, including their famous 'Smithy's Breakfast' (bacon, sausage, egg, oatcake, mushroom, toast, tomatoes and beans!!). They also serve a range of speciality teas and freshly ground coffee, served by the cup, mug, pot or even PINT - which they describe as 'perfect for the thirsty walker or cold cyclist'!
I settled for a smaller snack in the snug back room, and although the service is a little slow, it was huge meal that I thoroughly enjoyed. Further down the long table a delightful couple arrived who had been to the Smithy for breakfast, then gone on a walk through delightful Lathkill Dale. (See my previous blog) Now they thought it was time to treat themselves to desert, and somewhat to their surprise I asked if I could photograph it for my blog! How delicious it looked - pity I was too full to have some!
I always love places that support the local community, and that's certainly the case with The Old Smithy. Bakewell Pudding Shop daily supplies all the fresh rolls, cakes and panini's, whilst fresh fruit and veggies come from Tomson of Buxton. Even the ice cream is local, being from award winning Smiths Creamland Ices at nearby Clay Cross, whilst meat arrives from Redferns Farm Shop who are at Harpur Hill, Buxton. They must get through a vast number of eggs, and these are free range from Rowsley Bar near Bakewell, with coffee from Arden Coffee, a local family run coffee roasters. As if that wasn't enough even the real ale is local, being brewed at Peak Ales on the Chatsworth estate.Their web site sums up their philosophy perfectly.
"Here at The Old Smithy we truly do cater for everyone, whether you are a small family wanting afternoon teas and cakes, a hungry walker needing a full meal, a worn out cyclist needing refreshment or simply just a group of friends wanting coffee and a chat. The Old Smithy welcomes you all'
Isn't that nice? Now I can't wait to go back, and this time I might even have a full 'Smithy's Breakfast"!
January 23, 2014
Cafe - Doddington Hall - Lincolnshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
After a most enjoyable visit to the Doddington Hall Farm Shop (see previous blog)
it was then time to visit the cafe, which is reached through the shop.
One thing was immediately obvious - it was very popular - always a good sign in my book! There was a surprisingly good range of meals on offer, including Doddington Herd beef burger in a Welbeck bun, coleslaw and hand cut chips, or, and I did think this sounded nice, Doddington herd beef stew, thyme dumpling and mashed potato. There were a couple of fish dishes including fishcakes of salmon, cod & haddock with a cucumber & mint salad, lemon butter sauce & hand cut chips.
Eventually I settled for a bowl of soup, which was parsnip - always my favourite. It arrived piping hot, together with a roll, which to my great amusement looked exactly like a bathroom sponge! It turned out to have been baked on site, contained pieces of tomato, hence it's delicate pink hue, and tasted absolutely wonderful. The accompanying butter had been mixed with finely chopped olives, and I added a bowl of hand cut chips. This all turned out to be a quite substantial, and very tasty meal.
Beyond the cafe was a restaurant - also well supported, which appeared to be waitress service.
Altogether my visit to Doddington Hall had been thoroughly enjoyable and I look forward to returning in the near future.
After a most enjoyable visit to the Doddington Hall Farm Shop (see previous blog) it was then time to visit the cafe, which is reached through the shop.
One thing was immediately obvious - it was very popular - always a good sign in my book! There was a surprisingly good range of meals on offer, including Doddington Herd beef burger in a Welbeck bun, coleslaw and hand cut chips, or, and I did think this sounded nice, Doddington herd beef stew, thyme dumpling and mashed potato. There were a couple of fish dishes including fishcakes of salmon, cod & haddock with a cucumber & mint salad, lemon butter sauce & hand cut chips.
Eventually I settled for a bowl of soup, which was parsnip - always my favourite. It arrived piping hot, together with a roll, which to my great amusement looked exactly like a bathroom sponge! It turned out to have been baked on site, contained pieces of tomato, hence it's delicate pink hue, and tasted absolutely wonderful. The accompanying butter had been mixed with finely chopped olives, and I added a bowl of hand cut chips. This all turned out to be a quite substantial, and very tasty meal.
Beyond the cafe was a restaurant - also well supported, which appeared to be waitress service.
Altogether my visit to Doddington Hall had been thoroughly enjoyable and I look forward to returning in the near future.
January 21, 2014
farm Shop - Doddington Hall - Lincolnshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
It was a long time since I last visited lovely Doddington Hall, and seeing a sign saying they now had a Farm Shop, I decided to head that way (click here for my previous blog)
The first surprise was the sheer number of cars there - I had quite a struggle to find a space! As I knew the House and the Garden were both closed, clearly there was some other, very good, attraction. Then I spotted this delightful, cleverly top-lit, display, with a board clearly favourably comparing the prices at Doddington with those of the leading supermarkets. After stocking up with a lovely bag of apples, cauliflower, mushrooms etc., I headed inside, where I just stood amazed.
It appeared to be a large barn conversion, which opened in 2007 and no wonder it's won awards for its good quality. They are particularly keen to stock fruit and vegetables with zero food miles, using freshly picked items from their own Kitchen Garden, which is back in production after a 50 year absence. Beef in the Butchery is often from
their own herd of Lincolnshire Red Cattle.
The cheese selection was really good - and very tempting!
Then there's the bakery with cakes, pastries, scones, tarts and biscuits which are baked daily on site. I also spotted bread from Welbeck (near to where I live) and Welbourne. There was also a section for the home baker, including flour ground at Maud Foster windmill in Boston.
As expected there was a wide range of chutneys, jams, pickles etc, including Doddington Estate Honey (who could resist that - certainly not me!) Doddington recipe marmalade and Apple Juice made using apples from their orchard.
No wonder I staggered out laden with bags of goodies! This is definitely a place I'll be returning to. But first I wanted to try out their Cafe (see next blog!)
It was a long time since I last visited lovely Doddington Hall, and seeing a sign saying they now had a Farm Shop, I decided to head that way (click here for my previous blog)
The first surprise was the sheer number of cars there - I had quite a struggle to find a space! As I knew the House and the Garden were both closed, clearly there was some other, very good, attraction. Then I spotted this delightful, cleverly top-lit, display, with a board clearly favourably comparing the prices at Doddington with those of the leading supermarkets. After stocking up with a lovely bag of apples, cauliflower, mushrooms etc., I headed inside, where I just stood amazed.
It appeared to be a large barn conversion, which opened in 2007 and no wonder it's won awards for its good quality. They are particularly keen to stock fruit and vegetables with zero food miles, using freshly picked items from their own Kitchen Garden, which is back in production after a 50 year absence. Beef in the Butchery is often from
their own herd of Lincolnshire Red Cattle.The cheese selection was really good - and very tempting!
Then there's the bakery with cakes, pastries, scones, tarts and biscuits which are baked daily on site. I also spotted bread from Welbeck (near to where I live) and Welbourne. There was also a section for the home baker, including flour ground at Maud Foster windmill in Boston.
As expected there was a wide range of chutneys, jams, pickles etc, including Doddington Estate Honey (who could resist that - certainly not me!) Doddington recipe marmalade and Apple Juice made using apples from their orchard. No wonder I staggered out laden with bags of goodies! This is definitely a place I'll be returning to. But first I wanted to try out their Cafe (see next blog!)
January 5, 2014
Magpie Mine - Nr Sheldon - Derbyshire
http://www.aboutnottinghamshire.co.uk/
It was the striking architecture against the skyline that first caught my eye. I was pretty sure it was the remains of a lead mine, as these are dotted all over Derbyshire. Then I was delighted to find there was a footpath actually up to the buildings, definitely too good an experience to miss.
I then discovered that Magpie Mine has a long history, with the earliest recorded workings dating 1740. Always the major problem was with water, but by 1824 a Newcomen type pumping engine was erected in the main shaft. As a result of this, in 1827 800 tons of lead was mined, a record that remained for the next 44 years.
The mine certainly had a troubled history. As the area is riddled with lead mines, there was a serious dispute as to who had the right to work each vein. Miners from Magpie and Maypitt Mines were both working the Great Redsoil Vein, and they would light fires underground to try and drive out their opponents. (The mind boggles at such a practice, but apparently it went on for years) Then in 1833 three Maypitt miners were suffocated by the fumes, and 24 Magpie miners were put on trial for their murder. Eventually all were acquitted because of the difficulty in identifying the individual culprits. However, the wives of the "murdered" men put a curse on the mine, which is said to remain to this day.
The mine closed in 1835, but was reopened 4 years later by John Taylor, a famous Cornish mining engineer. He introduced many innovations, but disputes about how to deal with the water problem rumbled on for years, although 1871 to raise 850 tons of ore. Unfortunately this was a short-lived success, as the pump was unable to cope with the huge amount of water as they went deeper, and eventually a sough or drainage level was constructed from the south bank of the River Wye. This huge undertaking, which started in 1873 and took 8 years to complete, is variously reported to have cost between £14,000 and £35,000.
This meant the mine could be worked at a depth of about 170m, eventually going to 220m. However, it was at a time of falling lead prices, and within two years of completion, in 1883 the company went into liquidation.
The Magpie Mine site has been awarded Higher Level Stewardship status by Natural England, commencing on the 1st January 2010 for a period of 10 years.
I found this a really interesting place to visit and was really pleased I stopped and recorded the visit.
It was the striking architecture against the skyline that first caught my eye. I was pretty sure it was the remains of a lead mine, as these are dotted all over Derbyshire. Then I was delighted to find there was a footpath actually up to the buildings, definitely too good an experience to miss.
I then discovered that Magpie Mine has a long history, with the earliest recorded workings dating 1740. Always the major problem was with water, but by 1824 a Newcomen type pumping engine was erected in the main shaft. As a result of this, in 1827 800 tons of lead was mined, a record that remained for the next 44 years.The mine certainly had a troubled history. As the area is riddled with lead mines, there was a serious dispute as to who had the right to work each vein. Miners from Magpie and Maypitt Mines were both working the Great Redsoil Vein, and they would light fires underground to try and drive out their opponents. (The mind boggles at such a practice, but apparently it went on for years) Then in 1833 three Maypitt miners were suffocated by the fumes, and 24 Magpie miners were put on trial for their murder. Eventually all were acquitted because of the difficulty in identifying the individual culprits. However, the wives of the "murdered" men put a curse on the mine, which is said to remain to this day.
The mine closed in 1835, but was reopened 4 years later by John Taylor, a famous Cornish mining engineer. He introduced many innovations, but disputes about how to deal with the water problem rumbled on for years, although 1871 to raise 850 tons of ore. Unfortunately this was a short-lived success, as the pump was unable to cope with the huge amount of water as they went deeper, and eventually a sough or drainage level was constructed from the south bank of the River Wye. This huge undertaking, which started in 1873 and took 8 years to complete, is variously reported to have cost between £14,000 and £35,000.This meant the mine could be worked at a depth of about 170m, eventually going to 220m. However, it was at a time of falling lead prices, and within two years of completion, in 1883 the company went into liquidation.
The Magpie Mine site has been awarded Higher Level Stewardship status by Natural England, commencing on the 1st January 2010 for a period of 10 years.
I found this a really interesting place to visit and was really pleased I stopped and recorded the visit.
