Peak District Lead Mining Museum

Discover the history of lead mining in the Peak District and how it has shaped the landscape since Roman times. Interactive exhibits and climbing tunnels for the kids. Lots of relics to see, plus hundreds of rock and mineral specimens.

Peak District Lead Mining Museum gives you a great chance to explore the fascinating history of the lead mining industry in Derbyshire, and of the families who did this gruelling work to make a living.

There are a number of collections to explore, including documents, maps and photographs, pumping engines and devices that remove water from mines, and items that were used to move minerals underground and up to the surface.

They also have thousands of minerals and rocks to discover in the Howie mineral collection, there are so many that they cannot all be displayed!

The collection includes tools, machinery and other objects that were used to process minerals, plus personal items which belonged to miners, including shoes, helmets, and even games.

Make sure you check out the Wills Founder Water Pressure Engine, which is the centrepiece of the museum and is an incredible feat of engineering, built in 1819. Kids (large and small) will also not want to miss the three mock mine crawling and climbing tunnels, which are great fun!

Educational Visits

The Peak District Lead Mining Museum is ideal for educational visits, for groups of all ages and abilities. Guided tours and activities can be tailored to suit your needs.

For researchers, the Museum houses the library of The Peak District Mines Historical Society, which can be accessed by
appointment. A selection of the Museum's collection is also available to view online.