Magpie Mine: Derbyshire's Last Lead Mining Legacy
Explore Magpie Mine near Sheldon, Derbyshire — a hauntingly beautiful relic of England’s last working lead mine with over 200 years of rich industrial history.
Magpie Mine near Sheldon, Derbyshire, is a well-preserved historic lead mine with over 200 years of industrial heritage. Known for its dramatic history including deadly disputes and a legendary widow’s curse, it was the last working lead mine in the region, closing in 1958. Visitors can explore iconic 19th-century mining structures and peaceful surroundings that belie the turbulent past beneath.
A brief summary to Magpie Mine
- Magpie Mine Sheldon, Bakewell, DE45 1QU, GB
- +441629583834
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the mine ruins can be uneven and muddy after rain.
- Bring a camera to capture the striking industrial architecture and scenic Peak District surroundings.
- Visit during daylight hours between 11am and 4pm for the best visibility and safety.
- Respect the site’s heritage status by not climbing on fragile structures or entering fenced-off areas.
- Explore the nearby footpaths to enjoy peaceful walks and views of the surrounding countryside.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Bakewell to Magpie Mine takes approximately 15-20 minutes via local roads. Parking is available roadside near the access track, but spaces are limited, so plan accordingly. Note that the access track is private, so visitors should park responsibly and walk the remaining distance.
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Bus and Walking
Take a local bus from Bakewell to the village of Sheldon, a journey of about 20-30 minutes depending on service. From Sheldon, a 2-3 km walk along public footpaths leads to Magpie Mine, suitable for walkers with moderate fitness. Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.
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Walking
For those staying in Bakewell or nearby, a scenic 5 km walk to Magpie Mine follows public footpaths through the Peak District countryside. The route is moderately challenging with some uneven ground and is best undertaken in daylight hours. No special permits are required as the site is on open access land.
Magpie Mine location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Magpie Mine
Enduring Industrial Heritage of Magpie Mine
Magpie Mine, situated near the village of Sheldon about 5km west of Bakewell in Derbyshire, stands as one of the UK’s finest surviving examples of a 19th-century lead mine. With origins dating back to at least 1740, the mine operated intermittently for over two centuries, finally closing in 1958 as the last working lead mine in the Derbyshire ore field. The site includes a remarkable collection of limestone buildings and mining infrastructure, such as the restored square chimney and the Cornish engine house, which reflect the technological advancements introduced in the 19th century. The main shaft, sunk to over 200 meters, remains a striking feature marked by its steel headgear and winding cage from the mine’s final operational phase.Historic Conflicts and the Widows’ Curse
Magpie Mine’s history is marked by intense rivalries and tragedies, most famously the violent dispute with neighboring Maypitt Mine in 1833. Miners from both sides competed fiercely over lead veins, resorting to lighting underground fires to smoke each other out. This conflict resulted in the suffocation deaths of three Maypitt miners, leading to a high-profile murder trial in which 24 Magpie miners were accused but ultimately acquitted. The bereaved widows reportedly placed a curse on Magpie Mine, a legend that endures alongside tales of hauntings and misfortune. This curse is often linked to the mine’s financial struggles and accidents that plagued its later years.Engineering Innovations and Mining Techniques
Under the management of renowned Cornish engineer John Taylor from 1839, Magpie Mine saw significant modernization. Taylor introduced innovations such as steel borers, safety hats, iron winding ropes, and a more structured working regime. The installation of powerful steam-driven pumping engines was crucial to combat persistent flooding, a major challenge throughout the mine’s history. The construction of a drainage tunnel (sough) between 1873 and 1881, extending over two kilometers to the River Wye, was a monumental engineering feat that still functions today, discharging millions of gallons of water daily.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience Today
Today, Magpie Mine offers a tranquil yet evocative atmosphere where visitors can walk among well-preserved ruins and appreciate the contrast between the peaceful Peak District landscape and the turbulent industrial past. The site is accessible via public footpaths and open access land, allowing exploration of the mine’s buildings, including the powder house, engine houses, and the replica horse gin. The main shaft is covered by a grille, through which visitors can glimpse the flooded depths below. Wildflowers bloom around the site, softening the rugged industrial remains and enhancing the contemplative mood.Conservation and Cultural Significance
Magpie Mine is a legally protected Scheduled Monument managed by the Peak District Mines Historical Society, which has undertaken extensive restoration efforts, including the 2016 renovation of the square chimney. The site is a vital cultural heritage asset, illustrating the evolution of lead mining technology and the social history of mining communities in Derbyshire. Its stories of innovation, conflict, and resilience continue to captivate historians, industrial archaeologists, and visitors alike.Legacy of the Peak District Lead Mining
The mine is part of a broader landscape shaped by centuries of lead extraction, dating back to Roman times. The Peak District’s unique geology made it a center for lead mining, which profoundly influenced the region’s economy and environment. Magpie Mine encapsulates this legacy, symbolizing both the industrial prowess and the human cost of mining. Its preserved structures and haunting legends invite reflection on the complex relationship between industry, community, and nature in this iconic English landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peak District National Park Authority
4.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Baslow Edge
10.8 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Treak Cliff Cavern
15.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Treak Cliff Cavern in Castleton, a natural wonder filled with stunning rock formations and rich geological history.
Blue John Cavern
15.6 km
Explore the enchanting Blue John Cavern in the Peak District, a breathtaking underground world filled with stunning geological wonders and rich history.
Heights of Abraham
15.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Heights of Abraham, a mountain cable car attraction in the Peak District offering stunning views, engaging history, and delightful outdoor experiences.
Peak District Mining Museum
15.7 km
Explore the rich mining heritage of the Peak District at the Peak District Mining Museum, an engaging destination for all ages.
National Trust - Dark Peak
15.8 km
Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of the Dark Peak, a national park perfect for adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Peak District.
Carl Wark
15.9 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Cromford Mills
16.8 km
Explore the historical marvel of Cromford Mills, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the legacy of the Industrial Revolution in a picturesque setting.
Bamford Edge
17.1 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Black Rocks
17.2 km
Explore Black Rocks, a breathtaking historical landmark in Cromford, Wirksworth, perfect for hiking and captivating views of the Derbyshire countryside.
National Trust - Ilam Park
17.8 km
Discover Ilam Park, a stunning park and garden in the Peak District, offering breathtaking landscapes, beautiful walks, and rich history for an unforgettable experience.
Carsington Water
17.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carsington Water, a nature reserve offering outdoor adventures, stunning views, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Derbyshire.
Dark Peak Estate
18.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Dark Peak Estate, a must-visit scenic point and hiking area in the heart of Hope Valley.
High Peak Junction
18.6 km
Explore High Peak Junction, a delightful blend of natural beauty and rich industrial heritage in the heart of the Peak District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lathkill Dale
2.7 km
Explore the serene limestone valley of Lathkill Dale, where natural beauty meets rich history in the heart of England’s Peak District.
Monsal Trail
3.6 km
Explore 8.5 miles of scenic Peak District valleys, historic railway tunnels, and iconic viaducts on the accessible Monsal Trail.
Bakewell Old House Museum
4.2 km
Step back in time at Bakewell Old House Museum, a Tudor gem revealing centuries of local history through interactive exhibits and family-friendly trails.
Bakewell
4.5 km
Historic market town famed for its Bakewell tart, scenic riverside walks, and access to grand Peak District estates.
Water-Cum-Jolly Dale
4.6 km
Discover Water-Cum-Jolly Dale’s peaceful river valley, historic railway viaduct, and thriving wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Derbyshire.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
4.6 km
Historic Bakewell venue famed for its original award-winning puddings, artisan bakery, and charming British restaurant.
River Lathkill
4.6 km
Discover the crystal-clear River Lathkill flowing through a stunning limestone valley rich in wildlife, history, and scenic beauty near Bakewell.
Bakewell Bridge
4.7 km
Explore Bakewell Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Derbyshire, Perfect for Scenic Strolls and Cultural Discoveries.
Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow
4.8 km
Explore the ancient Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow in Derbyshire, a fascinating historical landmark steeped in British history and natural beauty.
The Royal Oak | Peak District
5.1 km
A welcoming country pub and campsite in Hurdlow offering hearty English fare, cosy fires, and a perfect base for exploring the southern Peak District.
Millers Dale Viaduct
6.0 km
Historic Victorian railway viaduct spanning the River Wye, now a scenic highlight of the Monsal Trail in the Peak District.
Abseiling Derbyshire
6.1 km
Experience thrilling abseiling adventures amid historic railway heritage and stunning Peak District landscapes at Millers Dale Station.
Haddon Hall
6.4 km
Britain's best-preserved medieval and Tudor house—a 900-year-old time capsule where history lives.
Chee Dale Stepping Stones
6.9 km
Explore the tranquil limestone gorge of Chee Dale with its iconic stepping stones and scenic river crossings in the heart of the Peak District.
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop
7.5 km
Award-winning farm shop offering fresh estate-reared produce, artisanal goods, and a seasonal café experience with stunning Chatsworth views.
Essential places to dine
Riverside House Hotel
2.6 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
The Bulls Head
2.7 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
The Crispin
4.5 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
White Lion
4.5 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
Piedaniel's
4.6 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
The Manners, Bakewell
4.6 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
4.6 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
The Bull I' Th' Thorn Pub & Pizzeria | Peak District
4.7 km
Historic Peak District pub and pizzeria in Buxton, cherished for its heritage, lively atmosphere, and scenic countryside setting.
The Woodyard
4.8 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
7.4 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
The Horse & Jockey
7.5 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
The Merchant's Yard
7.8 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
Derbyshire Eats
8.0 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Anchor Inn
8.2 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
The Peacock at Rowsley
8.6 km
Historic riverside inn offering refined rooms, acclaimed dining, and exclusive fishing on Derbyshire’s scenic Haddon Estate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Derbyshire Emporium
4.5 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
Edge of the World
4.5 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
4.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
The British Emporium
4.6 km
Discover a refined collection of authentic British-made gifts and homewares in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Mini Chic- clothing, gifts, and accessories for children and babies
4.6 km
Charming boutique offering stylish children’s clothing, gifts, and accessories in the heart of Bakewell’s historic town centre.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
4.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
Antique and Unique
8.0 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
High Peak Bookstore and Cafe
8.7 km
A charming independent bookstore and cozy café nestled in the scenic Peak District near Buxton, perfect for book lovers and casual visitors alike.
The Works
8.9 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Delightful Living
9.4 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
9.6 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Jo Royle Outdoor
12.4 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
AWAKEN - Crystal & Spiritual Shop
12.5 km
Discover exquisite crystals and handcrafted spiritual jewellery at AWAKEN, Buxton’s premier metaphysical supply shop blending artistry with energy.
The Springs Shopping Centre
12.5 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Fiveways Country Store
12.5 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Packhorse Inn
4.0 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
4.6 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
Castle
4.7 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
Anglers Rest
6.0 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
Red Lion Inn
7.1 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Flying Childers Inn
7.8 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The George Inn
7.8 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Star Inn
7.9 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The Bull at Foolow
8.8 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
The Eyre Arms
9.4 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
The Barrel Inn
10.1 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
12.6 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar
12.7 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Thorn Tree Inn
14.6 km
A traditional Matlock pub offering hearty homemade food, excellent ales, and stunning views over the Derbyshire Dales and Riber Castle.
The Tipsy Toad
14.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Matlock with funky vibes, great drinks, and friendly staff, open late for memorable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level 2
12.5 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
The Loft
14.8 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Waikiki Beach Bar
21.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
22.1 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
Base 95
22.1 km
Leek’s vibrant nightclub and bar at Market Place, Base 95 offers lively late-night entertainment for a diverse crowd every weekend.
Dempseys Bar and Club
25.5 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Corporation
25.7 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Code Sheffield
25.9 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Temple Sheffield
25.9 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Fez Sheffield
26.0 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
26.0 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
26.0 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
26.0 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
The Leadmill
26.1 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Al Ahsa Night Club
26.4 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
