Magpie Mine, Deepdale and Lathkill Dale
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 10.7 miles
There is off road parking in a large layby at the start of the walk. It then follows the footpath through lovely Hay Meadows, and through lovely countryside. You will then drop down into Lathkill Dale and pass the Bateman's House and some caves. You now start your climb up towards the village of Over Haddon (toilets can be found in the public car park).
You continue your walk up over the fields crossing the B5055 towards Sheldon, stopping at Magpie Mine on your way.
Magpie Mine was the last working lead mine in the Derbyshire orefield and is probably the best surviving example anywhere in the UK of a 19th century lead mine.
After a break, continue through Sheldon, heading towards the Deep Dale Nature Reserve. From this point onwards, your walk takes you downhill back to the start. Take extreme care when you drop down into Deepdale, the path down is extremely steep and the ground is loose.
Further Information
Magpie Mine is a former lead mine located in Derbyshire. It was one of the most productive lead mines in the county, and operated from the 16th century until the 20th century. The mine is notable for its deep shafts, some of which reach depths of over 700 feet, as well as its long adit, or horizontal tunnel, which runs for over a mile. The mine was closed in the early 20th century and has since been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The surface remains of the mine are open to the public and include the Magpie Mine engine house and a visitor center.
What will I see on this walk?
