Duke Pit Fan House, Whitehaven
A striking medieval-style fan house preserving Whitehaven’s pioneering coal mine ventilation heritage since 1747.
The Duke Pit Fan House in Whitehaven is a historic 19th-century structure built in a castellated medieval style. It housed a massive 36-foot Guibal fan used to ventilate the Duke Pit coal mine, which was first sunk in 1747. The fan house remains as a preserved industrial landmark overlooking Whitehaven harbour, symbolizing the town’s rich mining heritage and innovative ventilation technology of the era.
A brief summary to Duke Pit Fan House
- Whitehaven, Whitehaven, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight for the best views over Whitehaven harbour and to appreciate the fan house’s architectural details.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Rosemary Lane to explore other historic mining and industrial sites nearby.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique castellated brickwork and the panoramic harbour backdrop.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the surrounding terrain can be uneven and the site is outdoors with no formal paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Whitehaven town center to the Kells area, approximately a 15-20 minute ride. Buses run hourly with a fare around £2.50. From the stop, a 10-minute uphill walk on uneven terrain leads to the fan house; suitable for most walkers but not wheelchair accessible.
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Car
Driving from Whitehaven town center takes about 10 minutes via local roads. Limited street parking is available near Rosemary Lane. The final approach involves a short walk uphill on a narrow path. Parking may be restricted during busy weekends.
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Walking
A 30-40 minute walk from Whitehaven harbor area is possible via Rosemary Lane and Harmless Hill. The route involves steep sections and uneven surfaces, so it is recommended for those with moderate fitness and sturdy footwear.
Duke Pit Fan House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Duke Pit Fan House
Origins of Duke Pit and Early Mining
Duke Pit was originally sunk in 1747 by Carlisle Spedding, marking one of Whitehaven’s earliest coal mines. Initially, ventilation was achieved by lighting fires at the bottom of the shaft to create an updraft, a common but hazardous practice at the time. Over the decades, the pit expanded with multiple shafts and improvements to mining technology, reflecting the industrial growth of Whitehaven as a coal-exporting port.The Guibal Fan and Architectural Significance
Around 1860, the Duke Pit Fan House was constructed to house a 36-foot diameter Guibal fan, a revolutionary ventilation device designed to improve airflow and safety in the mines. The fan house itself was designed in a distinctive castellated, medieval revival style using brick and sandstone, giving it the appearance of a small fortress. This architectural choice was unusual for industrial buildings and has helped preserve the structure as a local landmark.Role in Ventilation and Mining Operations
The Guibal fan replaced the dangerous fire method by mechanically forcing air through the mine shafts, ventilating both Duke Pit and later the nearby Wellington Pit. The fan house’s location on the hillside overlooking Whitehaven harbour allowed efficient airflow management. The upcast shaft beneath the fan house’s round tower and the nearby old shaft were integral to this system, ensuring miners’ safety and operational efficiency.Preservation and Modern Context
After the decline of mining in the area, demolition of the fan house was halted in the 1970s. Instead, a concrete-arched viewing gallery was added to protect the ruins and allow visitors to appreciate the site. Today, the Duke Pit Fan House stands as one of the few surviving examples of Guibal fan houses in the UK, symbolizing Whitehaven’s industrial heritage and the evolution of mining technology.Surrounding Area and Historical Landscape
The fan house is situated near Rosemary Lane, a historic route connecting industrial neighborhoods in Whitehaven. Nearby remnants of other mining infrastructure, such as the Phoenix Foundry chimney and old engine houses, contribute to the rich industrial landscape. The site’s elevated position offers views over the harbour, linking the mining past with Whitehaven’s maritime history.Legacy and Cultural Importance
The Duke Pit Fan House is not only a monument to mining engineering but also an evocative symbol of the community’s resilience and industrial identity. Its medieval-style architecture contrasts with its industrial function, making it a unique heritage site that draws interest from historians, industrial archaeologists, and visitors keen to explore England’s coal mining legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
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For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
