Location
It was dark and i was being led through the woods by a bunch of typical underground types. Best I can do for now is the DCC 'surgery', opposite the Wizard Pub, Postcode SK10 4UB. Its a short walk from here.
goo.gl/maps/jZK6g
Directions
Park at the back of the Wizard Pub, Meet the DCC upstairs in the 'Surgery' which is their club hut - the tiny white building directly opposite the pub. From there its about 5 or 10mins walk through the woods.
Access
Access is National Trust, controlled by DCC, who have the key for the lid.
The mine is entered today via shafts dug by the Derbyshire Caving Club in 1975 and 2002. Access to the mine is limited to members of the DCC and to other clubs and individuals who are insured by BCRA/DCA/BCA. Temporary membership is available for this purpose. This arrangement is to ensure that the landowners above the mine are indemnified.
Suggested Equipment
None, but there is plenty of scope for SRT trips if required. Its bone dry and sandy. Caving suit really not needed and its mostly upright walking. Wellies a good idea for the muddy walk through the woods, and to stop sand getting into lower cut 'shoes'.
Length
extensive workings over approx half a mile above ground - but with many times this amount in terms of actual workings and passages.
Flood risk
Its bone dry almost everywhere.
Mine Attributes
Copper Mine. Numerous levels with some ladders
Description
A reasonable sized mine with (mostly) big, open passages on multiple levels.
DCC's website provides much more information
www.derbyscc.org.uk/alderley/mines_west.php
Unexplored Passages
Work is ongoing to access more workings
Digs
Links
www.derbyscc.org.uk/alderley/mines_west.php
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alderley_Edge#Alderley_Edge_mines
