A series of mines were driven westwards under the Ruined Castle in the late 1800s. Note that there is no built castle just some interesting rock pinnacles.The mines were a rich source of oil-shale.
The oil shale was transported from the mines along horse-drawn tramways, initially to an aerial cableway to Katoomba and, after its collapse, all the way back by tram to Katoomba.
Miners walked from Katoomba to the mines via the Golden Steps down the sandstone cliffs and camped near the mines.