Speedwell Mine

Grid Reference: SK 413930.46 382750.40
Level: 247.04 m
Grade: II to V

At the foot of Winnats Pass lies the entrance to Speedwell Mine and Cavern, about one kilometre west of Castleton. This is currently a showcave so there is no access to the system as the owners do not wish to have there business disrupted by cavers. The showcave is naturally mined but it does break into natural caverns in the further reaches. After passing through the turnstile and steel door, 104 concrete steps (formerly 106 flagstone steps) descend back beneath the Winnats road. The roof is supported by late 18th century miners stone arching, after descending to about 24 metres below road level, the incline lands at a landing bay next to the canal.

Access

This is an active showcave so no access to the system beyond for cavers via the Speedwell level so access to the stream cave beyond must be undertaken via Peak Cavern, James Hall or Titan Shaft. Under no circumstances, should you contact the management of Speedwell for access to this mine.

Description

Clicking on the link below, will take you to the relevant PDF Cave Guide:

1. The entrance to Main Rising & Cliff Cavern
2. The Halfway House Series
3. The Assault Course & Pilkingtons Series
4. The Bung Hole Series
5. Whirlpool Passage

Shaun Puckering who runs the Peak District Caving website has given me permission to use his cave guides of the system.

Other Names

Navigation Mine

Bibliography

Rieuwerts, J.H. & Ford, T.D. 1985. The Mining History of the Speedwell Mine or Oakden Level, Castleton, Derbyshire. PDHMS Bulletin Vol 9, No 3. pp 129-170.