Hi all,

Found this site while looking for more information on Force Crag mine, me and some friends went for an explore up there yesterday. I was fascinated by the old infrastructure. Only found on entrance into the mine, and it didn't lead anywhere, at least not for someone wearing jeans and trainers, but I can't wait to go back up better equiped. I have also been going up Honister Slate mine since I was a kid, but have only been inside twice, once on a guided tour, and one for it was opened up to the public. My Dad and Uncle both worked up the during the seventies, and I have spent many hours listening to stories of being stormbound in the bothys during winter.

Any information on any good mines round the NW lake district for beginners would be much appreciated, and in particularly interested in surface infrastructure.

Thinking of having a look uf Threlkeld Quarry tomorrow, heard there's some huge ld cranes there. I'll let you know how I get on.

Pay Ian Tyler a visit in the mining museum at Keswick, he'll be able to provided you with all the information you need.

When paying a visit to Ian Tyler at the Keswick Mining Museum, Otley House, Otley Road, Keswick (Webb site: www.keswickminingmuseum.co.uk ), ask for a copy of his mine walks for 2012 - One of these walks is up to Force Crag, the other walks will get you a good start into the mining of Cumbria.

(Note: the walks are also shown on the "Events & Meets" of this site).