Attraction in Wakefield

National Coal Mining Museum
Caphouse Colliery
New Road
Overton

Wakefield
West Yorkshire

WF4 4RH
http://www.ncm.org.uk

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A visit to the National Coal Mining Museum for England is a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of one of the country’s most important and dangerous industries, all brought to life through vibrant displays, historic buildings, fascinating collection, talks and tours.

The highlight of a visit is the chance to go back in time and deep underground to discover the hidden world of mining through the centuries. You’ll get kitted out with a hard-hat and battery lamp then, before you descend 140 metres below ground for your underground tour, you’ll be able to peer down the newly restored and dramatically lit furnace shaft – right to the bottom of the mine. The huge shaft, once used as a ‘chimney’ for ventilation, is now covered by a special, 3m wide toughened glass cover, set in the floor of the Lamproom. Will you peep from the edge, or stride boldly to the middle to experience being suspended above a 140m deep black hole? That’s the height of 11 double-decker buses!

Across the 41-acre site of the former Caphouse Colliery, you can visit the original colliery buildings, including the steam winder, medical centre and pit-head baths, then explore the fascinating 1842 and Coal Interface Galleries to dig deeper into the history of coal-mining. In the Mining Lives Gallery, you’ll get to the heart of mining communities, their homes and family life and, on selected days, costumed living history characters will literally ‘bring it all to life’ with their entertaining tales.

Above ground, visit the ponies and learn about the part they played in coal mining, take a stroll along the Nature Trail, make a welcome ‘pit stop’ at the Museum’s Café and pick up a souvenir or gift from the well-stocked shop.

Special events, exhibitions and craft fairs take place throughout the year and special themed talks and tours are available for pre-booked groups.

Admission is free, as is coach and car parking. All Underground Tour visitors will be asked to purchase a traditional miner’s ‘check’ at a cost of £2 each; this is required as a safety measure on site and, after the Tour, the check can either be returned and a refund given or the check can be kept as a souvenir of your visit. All money generated from the checks is used towards the upkeep of the Museum and the Underground Tour.

Details

Nearest UK Airport: Leeds/Bradford
Months Open: All Year - closed 24 - 26 Dec, 1 Jan
10am - 5pm
Groups/Parties Welcome: Yes
Car Parking: Yes
Conference Facilities: Yes
Admission Price: Free
Catering: Licensed Cafe

More Attractions nearby

Wakefield Museum (0.09 miles)

Wakefield Cathedral (0.13 miles)

Gissing Centre (0.16 miles)

Wakefield Art Gallery (0.26 miles)

Pugneys Country Park (2.38 miles)

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