Photo Gallery ::
Nenthead Mines, Cumbria
The mines of Nenthead and the surrounding area are well known to many a mine explorer. Some of the most extensive systems in the UK, the now naturalising mines are a feast for the cave photographer - and presented here is a small selection of photographs taken during a series of visits in 2009 to Smallcleugh, Rampgill and Middlecleugh (which is gated and requires special permission for access).
Sadly, some areas of the mines have been seriously damaged - in part by those who do not have an appreciation for the archeaology, but also by mineral collectors, selfishly hacking at the few remaining deposits for either their own collections, of for commercial gain. If you choose to visit these interesting mines - please treat them with respect. Take nothing but photographs, and leave nothing - not even foot prints!
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Calcited stope in Rampgill mine, Cumbria
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Much of the Nenthead mine workings were in flattings - horizontal beds of mineral between the shale/limestones. As these were worked out, they were backfilled and arched over. Unusually, this stope is of grand proportions. It has become extremely well decorated with iron-rich flowstone. (And no, the caver is not leaning on the flowstone, there is some calcite-free rock just out of view!) |
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All images are copyright © Winster Cavers unless otherwise stated, all rights reserved.
If you would like a copy of any of these images for your own personal use, or would like to licence any of the images for commercial use, please contact us
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