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This former colliery site, boasts 2 of the largest surviving steam winding engines in Britain. The 'smallest' of which, after several years of restorations is now capable of being turned by compressed air. Although in the care of the Haig Colliery Preservation Society, the mining museum which was being developed on the site has closed. However, the new site owners (who are actually re-starting mining) have preserved the artefacts, documents etc.
The coastal area of Cumbria was once one of the a major coal and iron mining areas of Britain, although very little has been written about these mines thay have left a fascinating collection of buildings and remains.
This major mining centre, to the north of Whitehaven was controlled by the Curwen, rivals to the Lowther family (owners of the Whitehaven mines). Remains in the Workington area range from mine buildings to harbours.
The Clee Hills (4 miles east of Ludlow) were once a thriving mining community. Although quarrying still takes place only occassionally do we get chance to explore coal mine remains in this area.
