Snailbeach Lead Mine 2024

It was the biggest lead mine in Shropshire and it is reputed to have yielded the greatest volume of lead per acre of any mine in Europe. Underground mining ceased here in 1955 but the surface buildings are the most complete set in the district and probably the country. Buildings visible at any time.

Contacts

Operator: Shropshire Mines Trust

Address: Snailbeach Nr Minsterley Shropshire SY5 0NS

Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Website: View website

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Open Days & Times

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Travel

By Bus: 552
By Rail: Shrewsbury / 14 miles

Facilities

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During the Industrial Revolution demand for lead increased and with the advent of steam engines working the mine became more efficient. In the 1850s, when the mine was in full production, there were some 500 men employed in this mine.

In 1877 the narrow gauge Snailbeach District Railway was constructed from the main line at Pontesbury to Snailbeach so as to facilitate the transport of coal needed for the steam engines and to take the ore away for processing.