Yarnbury shallow shafts

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Historical Environment Record No:
MYD36690
Parish:
Grassington
OS Grid Reference:
SE018658
Dale:
Lower Wharfedale
Related to:

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Description

Near to Yarnbury, alongside the Duke’s New Road, are several shallow shafts, evidence for the earliest lead mining in Grassington. These are the remains of 17th and 18th century mine shafts, probably no more than 30 metres deep and part of the old ‘meer’ system of working. In this system, miners were assigned 30 yard blocks along a vein with seven and a half yards to either side. Here spoil was tipped, the ore was dressed and miners could put up shelters. As work progressed along the vein, the old shafts were backfilled.

Yarnbury shallow shafts, artist's reconstruction (c) YDNPA 2023

Yarnbury shallow shafts, artist’s reconstruction (c) YDNPA 2023

 

Source:

Gill, M C (1994) The Wharfedale Mines. (British Mining No 49) Keighley: Northern Mine Research Society

Location

Take Moor Lane north out of Grassington. Just over a mile along is hamlet of Yarnbury. Take public bridleway through gate on right signed to Hebden. The shallow shafts are about 250 metres further on. Interpretation panel.

Public Transport Details

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

Accessibility

Bridleway is well-surfaced and fairly level up to the site although gateway at Moor Lane end can be muddy.