Triple kiln, Murgatroyd’s Quarry

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Historical Environment Record No:
MYD36738
Parish:
Langcliffe
OS Grid Reference:
SD824665
Dale:
Ribblesdale
Related to:

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Description

Triple Kiln, Murgatroyd's Quarry MYD36738 (c) YDNPA, 2023

Triple Kiln, Murgatroyd’s Quarry MYD36738 (c) YDNPA, 2023

Three large draw kilns that were part of the short-lived Murgatroyd’s Lime Works survive next to the Craven Lime Works site at Langcliffe. When they were built in 1872 they were already old-fashioned and the superior technology of the nearby Hoffmann kiln must have provided strong competition.

These kilns were cut directly into the solid rock and have brick lined bowls. Limestone and coal were tipped into the top of the kiln and once lit the process relied on gravity to bring the finished lime to the base of the kiln where it could be removed through iron doors let into the floor of the burning chamber. From there it could be hauled out and loaded directly into railway wagons which were brought up the bank on a siding from the main railway line.

Source:

Johnson, David (2002) Limestone Industries of the Yorkshire Dales. Stroud: Tempus

Location

Part of the Craven Lime Works complex. Situated off the B6479 about 3/4 mile north of Langcliffe village. When level with the paper mill turn right up a lane leading under a railway bridge. Follow the lane to a junction, and go right to the signed car park. From the car park entrance return to the junction and turn right past a private house. Go through a gate and across a wide yard to interpretation board number 2. Follow the path to the left of the Hoffman kiln to a wooden bridge and up to a stone stile. Cross a stone bridge and at a path junction 4.5 metres past a footpath sign, bear left. Follow this path to interpretation board number 8.

Public Transport Details

Nearest town/village: Langcliffe. Call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 to plan your journey. After the welcome message key in 885 for North Yorkshire information.

Accessibility

Steep steps down to base of kiln. Paths are rough and muddy in places. Stone step stile and narrow footbridge.